Seizures and the cardiorespiratory system
- Author:
Howan Leung
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:Neurology Asia
2011;16(Supplement 1):55-56
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The cardio-respiratory aspects of seizures have been proposed as explanatory mechanisms for sudden
unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Theories were proposed which considered seizures as a terminal
event for SUDEP. Ictal asystole, ictal bradyarrhythmia and tachyarrhythmia are possible explanations
which have been reported, although the relative occurrence of these phenomena remains low. Other
observations from case reports and case series pointed towards apnoea and ictal hypoxaemia as a
putative terminal event for SUDEP. Many theories also considered the modifi cation of the cardiorespiratory
system by the underlying chronic epilepsy and anti-epileptic agents. Preventive measures
for SUDEP have yet to be established despite the growing understanding of the cardio-respiratory
mechanisms of SUDEP.
- Full text:P020150824404368630533.pdf
