Occurrence of status epilepticus in persons with epilepsy is determined by sex, epilepsy classification, and etiology: a single center cohort study

J Neurol. 2021 Dec;268(12):4816-4823. doi: 10.1007/s00415-021-10600-y. Epub 2021 May 21.

Abstract

Background: Status epilepticus (SE) can occur in persons with or without epilepsy and is associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Methods: This survey aimed to record self-reported frequency of SE in persons with epilepsy, its association with clinical characteristics and patient level of information on SE and rescue medication. 251 persons with epilepsy at a tertiary epilepsy center were included in the study.

Results: 87 (35%) had a history of SE defined as seizure duration of more than 5 min. These patients were less likely to be seizure-free, and had a higher number of present and past anti-seizure medication. Female sex, cognitive disability, younger age at epilepsy onset, defined epilepsy etiology, and focal epilepsy were associated with a history of SE. On Cox regression analysis, female sex, defined etiology and focal classification remained significant. 67% stated that they had information about prolonged seizures, and 75% knew about rescue medication. 85% found it desirable to receive information about SE at the time of initial diagnosis of epilepsy, but only 16% had been offered such information at the time.

Conclusion: SE is frequent among persons with epilepsy and there remain unmet needs regarding patient education.

Keywords: Comorbidity; Perception; Rescue medication; Seizure.

MeSH terms

  • Cohort Studies
  • Epilepsy* / complications
  • Epilepsy* / drug therapy
  • Epilepsy* / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Seizures
  • Status Epilepticus* / complications
  • Status Epilepticus* / epidemiology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires