Management of Refractory Status Epilepticus and Role of Newer AEDs

Overview

Status epilepticus is caused by CNS illnesses and diseases. In status epilepticus, hypersynchronous epileptic activity lasts longer than isolated self-limited seizures (time t1), which produces neuronal injury or modification of neuronal networks at a given time point (time t2). Successful status epilepticus care entails early seizure cessation and early identification of a causal etiology, which may necessitate immediate treatment. In nonconvulsive status epilepticus, patients may have no apparent symptoms. EEG can assess cerebral function and identify patterns requiring urgent treatment.