"Suffocation roulette": a case of recurrent syncope in an adolescent boy

Ann Emerg Med. 2003 Feb;41(2):223-6. doi: 10.1067/mem.2003.49.

Abstract

We present the case of a 12-year-old boy admitted with a complaint of recurrent syncopal episodes. A careful history taking revealed the cause of the syncopal episodes to be a dangerous game played by adolescents called "suffocation roulette." We believe that recognition of this game as a possible cause of syncopal events, together with prompt educative intervention, might prevent adolescent morbidity and mortality and also might eliminate the need for unnecessary medical investigations.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls
  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior
  • Asphyxia / etiology*
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Peer Group
  • Recurrence
  • Syncope / etiology*
  • Syncope / physiopathology