Nonconvulsive status epilepticus in terminally ill patients-a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

Details

Serval ID
serval:BIB_1BCFDBB06CD8
Type
Article: article from journal or magazin.
Publication sub-type
Case report (case report): feedback on an observation with a short commentary.
Collection
Publications
Title
Nonconvulsive status epilepticus in terminally ill patients-a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
Journal
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
Author(s)
Lorenzl S., Mayer S., Noachtar S., Borasio G.D.
ISSN
1873-6513 (Electronic)
ISSN-L
0885-3924
Publication state
Published
Issued date
2008
Volume
36
Number
2
Pages
200-205
Language
english
Notes
Publication types: Case Reports ; Journal Article ; ReviewPublication Status: ppublish
Abstract
Nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) is rarely considered as a cause of confusion in terminally ill patients. The clinical presentation varies from altered mental status to coma, without visible convulsions. Electroencephalogram is the most important diagnostic tool to identify epileptiform activity. Treatment should be initiated following a stepwise model, avoiding intubation and transfer to the intensive care unit. Although mortality rates are high, in some patients NCSE can be reversed by treatment. NCSE should be considered in a differential diagnosis of all terminally ill patients with sudden mental status changes. We present two cases and discuss treatment options and the borders of therapy.
Keywords
Epilepsy, Generalized/diagnosis, Epilepsy, Generalized/therapy, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Palliative Care/methods, Terminal Care/methods
Pubmed
Web of science
Create date
14/01/2014 10:17
Last modification date
20/08/2019 12:52
Usage data