Vasodepressor syncope.

Abstract

Vasodepressor syncope is the fulminant expression of the behavioral disorder "Blood-Injury Phobia". Vasodepressor syncope or the "common faint" is characterized by a diphasic autonomic hyperactivity that begins with anxiety and leads to a transient loss of consciousness. Recognition of the behavioral etiology of this disorder suggests the possibility of prevention through psychotherapy. Understanding the pathophysiology of the diphasic autonomic hyperactivity allows for rational management of the "common faint".