Status Epilepticus

Author: Adam Reuben / Editor: Adam Reuben / Reviewer: Joe Schrieber, John Wilson / Codes: / Published: 05/05/2021

Description:

Status epilepticus, a state of prolonged, uncontrolled seizures, is a common emergency department presentation that is potentially life-threatening. Clinicians need an awareness of the existence, and presentations, of the different forms.

After completing this session you will be able to:

• Differentiate between the different forms of seizure that constitute status epilepticus (SE)
• List SE classifications
• Describe the aetiology of different forms of SE

References:

1. Refer to the following text for additional information: 1. Knake S, Hamer HM, Rosenow F. Status epilepticus: a critical review. Epilepsy Behav 2009;15:10-14.
2. Marik PE, Varon J. The management of status epilepticus. Chest 2004;126:582-591.
3. Bassin S, Smith TL, Bleck TP. Clinical review: status epilepticus. Crit Care 2002;6:137-142.
4. Walker M. Status epilepticus: an evidence based guide. BMJ 2005;331:673-677.
5. Watson C. Status epilepticus. Clinical features, pathophysiology, and treatment. West J Med 1991;155:626-631.
6. Chen JWY, Wasterlain CG. Status epilepticus: pathophysiology and management in adults. Lancet Neurol 2006;5:246-256.
7. Basu H, O’Callaghan F. Status epilepticus: beyond guidelines. Curr Paediatrics 2005;15:324-332.
8. Varelas PN, Spanaki MV, Hacein-Bey L et al. Emergent EEG: indications and diagnostic yield. Neurology 2003;61:702-704
9. Rainbow J, Browne GJ, Lam LT. Controlling seizures in the prehospital setting: diazepam or midazolam? J Paediatr Child Health 2002;38:582-586.
10. Lockey AS. Emergency department drug therapy for status epilepticus in adults. Emerg Med J 2002;19:96-100.
11. Patel NC, Landan IR, Levin J et al. The use of levetiracetam in refractory status epilepticus. Seizure 2006;15:137-141
12. Mark’s story – a patient’s perspective. An NHS video. View link