MAJOR STATUS EPILEPTICUS<i>A Series of 42 Patients</i>

Abstract

A retrospective study of 42 patients admitted to The London Hospital between 1948–1968 with 50 episodes of major status epilepticus is reported with particular reference to cause and outcome. It was found that the commonest precipitating factors were drug irregularity and/or systemic infections. The duration of the status was greater in the younger age group (below 10 years) and in the older age group (over 60 years), and it was further noted that this factor was closely linked with neurological outcome. Overall mortality was 21 per cent, and a further 26 per cent of the patients suffered neurological sequelae. This was particularly likely in patients with asymmetrical motor seizure activity. Frontal lobe involvement was suggested in 42 per cent of patients. The duration of status particularly before treatment was commenced was closely related to mortality and morbidity. The findings are discussed.