The Outcome of Status Epilepticus and Long-Term Follow-Up

Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of regular care and patient follow-up. Introduction Status epilepticus (SE) is a condition and most extreme form of epilepsy (1), which leads to abnormal and prolonged seizure (at least 5 min). In case SE persists over 30 min, it may have severe long-term consequences (2). Referring to the new classification scheme of SE, there are two operational dimensions of the definition: time point 1 (T1) is associated with abnormally prolonged seizure, when therapy should be initiated, while time point 2 (T2) is related to the time of on-going seizure activity involving a risk of long-term consequences (2). SE is one of the most common neurological emergencies (1). It is a potentially life-threatening situation which needs a prompt and particular treatment (3) in order to prevent cerebral damage due to initial excitotoxicity (4). Treatment is urgent because GABA sensitivity decreases and the sensitivity to excitotoxic neurotransmitters increases rapidly, leaving only a short time interval for effective treatment. SE may also have life-time consequences and, especially in refractory SE, the probability of becoming epileptic is higher (5). Cases of reported refractory and super-refractory SE (SRSE) are uncommon but very important clinical problems due to treatment difficulties, consequences, and high case fatality (1, 2, 4). Nevertheless, they probably occur more often than thought, especially if one thinks of non-convulsive SE. ...
Source: Frontiers in Neurology - Category: Neurology Source Type: research