Status epilepticus in pregnancy

Epilepsy Behav. 2023 Jan:138:109034. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.109034. Epub 2022 Dec 14.

Abstract

Status epilepticus is a frequent neurological emergency associated with a case fatality of about 10-15% depending on age, cause, and other factors, and a high burden for patients, caregivers, and society. In pregnancy, it can occur in two different clinical constellations: (1) In women with a history of epilepsy and (2) as new onset status epilepticus in pregnancy (NOSEP). Both entities are relatively rare but differ in terms of etiology. Here we describe the epidemiology, etiologies, diagnosis, clinical course with the maternal and fetal outcome, and the suggested management strategies for either manifestation. This paper was presented at the 8th London-Innsbruck Colloquium on Status Epilepticus and Acute Seizures held in September 2022.

Keywords: Antiseizure medication; Eclampsia; Epilepsy; PRES; RCVS; Seizures.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Family
  • Female
  • Humans
  • London
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Care
  • Seizures / diagnosis
  • Status Epilepticus* / diagnosis
  • Status Epilepticus* / epidemiology
  • Status Epilepticus* / therapy