How often does a CSF pleocytosis follow generalized convulsions?

Abstract

Postictal pleocytosis is a transient and otherwise unexplained increase in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leukocytes occurring after repetitive generalized tonic-clonic seizures. We reviewed 98 episodes of seizures in 91 patients in whom the CSF was examined within 72 hours of the last seizure. Patients who had diseases associated with CSF pleocytosis were excluded. Two of the 98 initial CSF samples showed a pleocytosis, which subsequent examinations proved to be transient.