THE CONTEXT
Complete atrioventricular block typically presents with recurrent syncope termed Stokes–Adams attacks.
Features during an attack
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Loss of consciousness occurs suddenly without warning and causes collapse.
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Prolonged asystole may cause a brief anoxic seizure due to cerebral ischaemia.
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The patient appears pale and death-like during the attack; a characteristic flush occurs when the heart starts beating again.
Recovery and similar presentations
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Recovery is rapid, in distinction to epilepsy.
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Sinoatrial disease and neurocardiogenic syncope may produce similar symptoms.