Pediatric status epilepticus management

Assessment of Seizure Action Plans in Pediatric Convulsive Status Epilepticus: Focus on Benzodiazepine-Responsive and Resistant Cases

Background and Objectives

Optimal acute treatment is crucial in pediatric convulsive status epilepticus (CSE). However, data on the benefits of seizure action plans (SAPs) and treatment algorithm implementation in relation to process and outcome measures in CSE are scarce. Our study examines treatment algorithm adherence in benzodiazepine (BZD)-responsive and BZD-resistant groups and specifically focuses on the relationship with personalized SAPs.

Methods

We performed a prospective observational cohort study evaluating patient care processes and outcomes in young patients with CSE lasting ≥5 minutes, requiring admission and an antiseizure medication(s) (ASM) for seizure termination from February 2016 to July 2018. Patients with infantile spasms, invasive EEG monitoring, unclear seizure duration, unclear ASM administration time, or seizure cluster were excluded. We used univariate statistics to analyze the data.

Results

We enrolled 60 patients (median age 3.7 [1.9-7.0] years, 48% female), including 34 BZD-responsive and 26 BZD-resistant patients. Patients who had access to a personalized SAP, even if it was not adhered to, experienced a median (p25-p75) time to first ASM of 6 minutes (5-18; n = 34). By contrast, patients without access to a personalized SAP had a longer median (p25-p75) time to the first ASM of 15 minutes (8-27; n = 24; p < 0.05). The median (p25-p75) time to administer the first ASM was 6 (5-15; n = 33) minutes in BZD-responsive patients vs 15 (6-32; n = 25; p < 0.05) minutes in BZD-resistant patients. Treatment protocol implementation rates were lower in BZD-resistant vs BZD-responsive patients. The median (p25-p75) time to administer the first ASM was 5 minutes (4-5; n = 14) in patients who implemented a personalized SAP compared with 16 minutes (6-31; n = 20; p < 0.001) in patients without SAP implementation. The median (p25-p75) seizure duration in personalized SAP implementation and nonimplementation groups was 9 (6-16; n = 14) and 22 (11-64; n = 20; p < 0.01) minutes, respectively. The intubation rate was 14% for those who implemented the personalized SAP and 53% for those who did not (p < 0.05).

Discussion

Seizure duration was shorter in patients with personalized SAP, and the time to administer ASM was faster. In addition, BZD-resistant patients were less likely to follow treatment protocols, and the time to first-line therapy was slower. SAP and algorithm implementation was associated with a lower intubation rate, indicating potential benefits, including improved process and patient outcome measures.

"Clinical outcomes and healthcare costs in status epilepticus: A multivariable analysis from a tertiary center in a resource-limited setting"

BACKGROUND

As a debilitating and severe repercussion, the clinical and economic impact of Status epilepticus (SE) has not been thoroughly explored in various regions around the world, especially those with limited resources. Therefore, we aimed to identify the predictors of mortality and healthcare costs associated with SE in one tertiary care center with limited resources.

METHODS

This retrospective single-center cohort study, carried out at Namazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran, included 130 SE cases from March 21, 2021, to March 20, 2022. Patient data were extracted from medical records, including demographics, clinical presentations, hospital course, treatment modalities, and costs. Multivariable regression models were used to identify factors associated with mortality and hospital stay costs.

RESULTS

Patients were aged 1 month to 92 years (mean 20.36 years, median 7), with a male predominance of 59.23 %. Pre-existing epilepsy was found to be associated with lower mortality (p < 0.05), while cardiovascular complications (p < 0.05) and cerebrovascular disease (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with increased mortality risks. In addition, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, necessitated by complex treatment regimens, was linked to significantly higher healthcare costs (p < 0.001). Older age and the use of sedatives were also associated with higher costs, while psychiatric disorders were linked to lower costs.

CONCLUSION

SE imposes a substantial clinical and economic burden in resource-limited settings, as limited availability of ICU beds is common. Thus, screening SE cases based on clinical characteristics (e.g., comorbidities) is paramount. Therefore, targeted strategies are essential for optimizing care and reducing costs.

Community-onset pediatric status epilepticus: Barriers to care and outcomes in a real-world setting

OBJECTIVE

Status epilepticus (SE) is a neurological emergency in childhood, often leading to neuronal damage and long-term outcomes. The study aims to identify barriers in the pre-hospital and in-hospital management of community-onset pediatric SE and to evaluate the effectiveness of pediatric scores on outcomes prediction.

METHODS

This monocentric observational retrospective cohort study included patients treated for community-onset pediatric SE in a tertiary care hospital between 2010 and 2021. Data were extracted following Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. Inclusion criteria were community-onset SE (according to the International League Against Epilepsy [ILAE] Task Force on SE Classification), admission to the pediatric emergency department (PED), age: 1 month to 18 years. Pre-hospital, in-hospital management and outcomes were analyzed. Pediatric scores for prediction of clinical worsening (Pediatric Early Warning Score - PEWS) and SE outcome (Status Epilepticus in Pediatric patients Severity Score - STEPSS; Pre-status Epilepticus PCPCS, background Electroencephalographic abnormalities, Drug refractoriness, Semiology and critical Sickness Score - PEDSS) were retrospectively assessed for their accuracy in predicting short-term and long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 103 consecutive episodes of SE were included. Out-of-hospital rescue medications administration occurred in 54.4% of cases and was associated with higher SE resolution rate before PED admission (48.2% vs 27.6%, p = .033). Longer in-PED time to treatment was observed in case of delay to PED referral (r = 0.268, p = .048) or non-red triage labels (12 vs 5 min, p = 0.032), and was associated with longer in-PED duration of SE (r = 0.645, p < .001). Longer SE duration was observed in episodes leading to hospitalization compared to those discharged (50 vs 16 min, p < .001). In-PED electroencephalography (EEG) recordings were available in 39.8% of events. Predictive scores varied in accuracy, with PEWS ≥5 showing high sensitivity for intensive care unit (ICU) admission but low specificity. No patients died, 6.3% of SE was refractory.

SIGNIFICANCE

Effective pre-hospital administration of rescue medications and prompt PED management are crucial to reduce SE duration and improve outcomes. Predictive scores can aid in assessment of the severity and prognosis of SE; their utility is still not defined. Identifying and addressing actionable care barriers in SE management pathways is essential to enhance patient outcomes in pediatric SE.

Utilizing natural language processing to identify pediatric patients experiencing status epilepticus

PURPOSE

Compare the identification of patients with established status epilepticus (ESE) and refractory status epilepticus (RSE) in electronic health records (EHR) using human review versus natural language processing (NLP) assisted review.

METHODS

We reviewed EHRs of patients aged 1 month to 21 years from Boston Children's Hospital (BCH). We included all patients with convulsive ESE or RSE during admission. We employed and validated a pre-trained NLP tool, Document review Tool (DrT), to identify patients from 2013-2020, excluding training years (2017-2019). DrT notes a machine-learning score based on a support vector machine (SVM) and bag-of-n-grams. Higher scores indicated more likely ESE/RSE cases. To further evaluate the effectiveness of DrT-assisted review, we compared the results to human-reviewed notes from the pediatric Status Epilepticus Research Group (pSERG) consortium at BCH.

RESULTS

The pre-trained algorithm identified 170 patients with RSE using DrT (Sensitivity: 98.8%), compared to 116 patients identified during human review (Sensitivity: 67.4%). Additionally, we identified 207 patients with ESE using DrT (Sensitivity: 99.5%), compared to 91 patients identified using human review (Sensitivity: 43.8%). Overall, DrT missed 3 cases (2 RSE and 1 ESE cases) that were identified during human review and identified 173 cases (56 RSE and 117 ESE cases) that were not found during the human review.

CONCLUSION

DrT-assisted manual review demonstrated higher sensitivity in identifying patients with ESE and RSE than the current standard of human review. This suggests that in contexts characterized by resource constraints NLP-related software like DrT can considerably enhance patient identification for research studies, treatment protocols, and preventative care interventions.

Rapid response electroencephalography decreases time to seizure diagnosis in pediatric acute care patients

OBJECTIVES

Pediatric status epilepticus (SE) carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality and can result in neurologic injury. Establishing seizure activity on conventional EEG (cEEG) is essential but can delay treatment of seizures due to technician limitations. Rapid response EEG (rrEEG) device Ceribell and its Brain Stethoscope function can be used and interpreted rapidly by bedside providers with minimal training. This retrospective pilot study examines the impact of rrEEG introduction at a quaternary care children's hospital on time to definitive diagnosis and treatment, as well as the accuracy of the Brain Stethoscope.

METHODS

This was a single center retrospective observational cohort study that analyzed data from patients 2-18 years old who presented with concerns for SE. For rrEEG patients, the bedside physician used the Brain Stethoscope at four discrete points. TDEA (time to diagnosis of electrographic activity) and setup time were recorded and compared using Welch's T-test. Diagnostic specificity and sensitivity for SE using the Brain Stethoscope were calculated against the epileptologist's assessment.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 30 pediatric patients, 15 on each EEG modality. RrEEG decreased the average TDEA (132 min vs. 22 min, p < 0.001) and setup time (22 min vs. 9 min, p < 0.001), compared to the cEEG. Bedside physicians diagnosed electrographic activity using the Brain Stethoscope with 100% sensitivity (95% CI 63%-100%) and 92% specificity (95% CI 81%-97%). RrEEG ruled out seizures in 11 patients and changed clinical decision-making in five patients.

SIGNIFICANCE

RrEEG allowed for earlier diagnosis of brain electrographic activity in pediatric patients when compared to cEEG. The bedside provider was able to initiate EEG monitoring, successfully diagnose patients using the Brain Stethoscope, and decrease delays associated with technician availability. This promising rrEEG technology can facilitate faster assessment of SE in pediatric acute care settings, potentially reducing ongoing neurologic injury.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

Prolonged seizures in pediatric patients can cause death. Children can have seizures that are happening in the brain, but cannot be seen physically. They can be diagnosed by a machine that records the brain's electrical activity and the data can be interpreted by a specialized neurologist, but the process of getting the machine connected to the patient and getting the data often takes hours and delays diagnosis. This study evaluated a new machine called the Ceribell® and determined that it facilitated a much faster diagnosis than the conventional machine in children and helped the bedside physician interpret the data quickly.

Lack of association of first and second-line medication dosing and progression to refractory status epilepticus in children

PURPOSE

Evaluate the relationship between first and second-line medication dosing and progression to refractory status epilepticus (RSE) in children.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from September 2014 to February 2020 of children with status epilepticus (SE) who received at least two antiseizure medications (ASMs). We evaluated the risk of developing RSE after receiving a low total benzodiazepine dose (lower than 100 % of the minimum recommended dose for each benzodiazepine dose administered within 10 min) and a low first non-benzodiazepine ASM dose (lower than 100 % of the minimum recommended dose of non-benzodiazepine ASM given as the first single-dose) using a logistic regression model, adjusting for confounders such as time to ASMs. The proportion of patients receiving low first non-benzodiazepine ASM doses was calculated and a logistic regression model was used to evaluate risk factors for low dosing of the first non-benzodiazepine ASM.

RESULTS

Among 320 children, 170 (53.1 %) developed RSE, and 150 (46.9 %) responded to the first non-benzodiazepine ASM dose (non-RSE). One hundred thirty-seven (42.8 %) received a low total benzodiazepine dose, and 128 (40 %) received a low first non-benzodiazepine ASM dose. The odds of developing RSE were not higher after a low total benzodiazepine dose (OR=0.76, 95 %CI 0.47-1.23, p = 0.27) or low first non-benzodiazepine ASM dose (OR=0.85, 95 %CI 0.42-1.71, p = 0.65). Receiving a low first non-benzodiazepine ASM dose was independently associated with having received a low total benzodiazepine dose (OR=1.65, 95 %CI 1.01-2.70, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

For most patients, dosing variability in first and second-line medications for SE was not the sole clinical feature predicting progression to RSE in this cohort of benzodiazepine-resistant patients. Identification of additional modifiable clinical biomarkers that predict progression to RSE is needed. Though lower ASM doses did not predict RSE in this model, the administration of ASMs at doses likely to prevent RSE remains crucial in SE treatment.

A Comprehensive Review of Recent Trends in Surgical Approaches for Epilepsy Management

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, with a significant proportion of patients experiencing drug-resistant epilepsy, where seizures remain uncontrolled despite medical treatment. This review evaluates the latest surgical techniques for managing epilepsy, focusing on their effectiveness, safety, and the ongoing challenges that hinder their broader adoption. We explored various databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library to look for relevant literature using the following keywords: Epilepsy, Resective Surgery, Corpus Collectumy, and Antiepileptic Drugs. A total of 54 relevant articles were found and thoroughly explored. Recent advancements in surgical interventions include resective procedures such as anterior temporal lobectomy, corpus callosotomy, and hemispherectomy, which have been particularly effective in reducing seizures for specific types of epilepsy. Minimally invasive techniques, including laser interstitial thermal therapy and focused ultrasound, are increasingly being used, offering promising outcomes for certain patient groups. Additionally, neuromodulation methods such as deep brain stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, and responsive neurostimulation provide alternative treatment options, especially for patients who are not suitable candidates for resective surgery. Despite these advancements, the full potential of epilepsy surgery is often underutilized due to various challenges. Inconsistent referral practices, a lack of standardized surgical protocols, and significant socioeconomic barriers continue to limit access to these procedures. Addressing these issues through improved referral processes, better education for healthcare providers and patients, and ensuring equitable access to advanced surgical treatments is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. Future research should focus on overcoming these barriers and assessing long-term outcomes to further enhance the care of patients with epilepsy.

Morbidity Associated with Deviation from Pediatric Status Epilepticus Guidelines

Treatment guidelines for the management of pediatric status epilepticus (PSE) are often institution-specific. We aim to characterize deviation from our hospital-based PSE treatment guidelines, the total dosage of benzodiazepines administered, and the need for intubation. The study population included all patients with an ICD -10 code for PSE who required admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) from April 2019 to April 2022. There were 66 PICU admissions. All patients with concern for PSE and altered mental status are admitted to the PICU. The cohort was divided between those treated according to the PSE protocol (benzodiazepine dose (0.05 mg/kg- 0.2 mg/kg) versus those who had low dose (≤0.05 mg/kg) and high-dose benzodiazepine (> 0.2 mg/kg) totals. The dosage was calculated as the total dose of benzodiazepines received pre-hospital and in the ED before intubation or transport. Forty-one (62 %) of patients received high-dose benzodiazepines (median 0.34 mg/kg [IQR 0.29-0.56], 19 (29 %) received recommended-dose benzodiazepines (median 0.13 mg/kg [IQR 0.09,0.15] and 6 (9 %) received low-dose (median 0.05 mg/kg [IQR 0.03,0.05]. The high-dose group was 15.9 (95 % CI = 3.7, 99.9) times more likely to be intubated controlling for the location of care (tertiary versus community hospital), and the age of the patient. The recommended-dose and low-dose groups required intubation with much less frequency.

Neurological Manifestations of Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Pediatric Patients: A 3-Year Study on Differences between Pandemic Waves

This study analyzed the neurological manifestation profiles of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection across pandemic waves in pediatric patients. The study collected data on patients aged between 0 and 18 years, diagnosed with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, admitted to a pediatric tertiary hospital between 1 March 2020 and 28 February 2023. This study included 1677 patients. Neurological manifestations were noted in 10% (n = 168) of patients with a median age of 3.2 years (interquartile range: 1-11.92). Neurological manifestations were significantly associated with the pandemic waves (p = 0.006) and age groups (p < 0.001). Seizures were noted in 4.2% of cases and reached an increasing frequency over time (p = 0.001), but were not associated with age groups. Febrile seizures accounted for the majority of seizures. Headache was reported in 2.6% of cases and had similar frequencies across the pandemic waves and age groups. Muscular involvement was noted in 2% of cases, reached a decreasing frequency over time (p < 0.001), and showed different frequencies among the age groups. Neurological manifestations of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibit distinct patterns, depending on the pandemic wave and patient age group. The Wuhan and Omicron waves involved the nervous system more often than the other waves.

Management of Pediatric Convulsive Status Epilepticus From the Perspective of Emergency Nurses: A Cross-sectional, Multicenter Study

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric convulsive status epilepticus is one of the most common neurologic emergencies and should be managed by health care professionals as soon as possible based on current guidelines. This study aimed to determine the nursing approaches and management of pediatric convulsive status epilepticus from the perspective of emergency nurses in Turkey.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, multicenter study was conducted with 162 emergency nurses working in emergency departments in 35 different provinces in Turkey. The data were collected via an online form. Descriptive statistical methods were used in data analysis.

RESULTS

Most emergency nurses (72.2%) attempted an intravenous access immediately to administer antiseizure medications during the stabilization phase. Approximately half the emergency nurses stated that rectal diazePAM was frequently administered in the initial therapy phase and intravenous diazePAM was administered in the second therapy phase. The emergency nurses had most difficulties attempting intravenous access, determining status epilepticus types, and calming the parents.

DISCUSSION

As health care professionals and important members of the health team, emergency nurses have the responsibility to manage pediatric convulsive status epilepticus in the fastest and the most appropriate way based on current practice guidelines in emergency departments. When intravenous access is not available, nonintravenous benzodiazepines should be considered in the first-line treatment of pediatric convulsive status epilepticus, followed by immediate intravenous access.

Propofol-Related Infusion Syndrome: A Bibliometric Analysis of the 100 Most-Cited Articles

Propofol-related infusion syndrome (PRIS) is a rare, yet life-threatening sequelae to prolonged administration of the anesthetic propofol in mechanically intubated patients. The condition is characterized by progressive multi-system organ failure and eventual mortality; of note, the predominant characteristics of PRIS involve but are not limited to cardiovascular impairment and collapse, metabolic and lactic acidosis, rhabdomyolysis, hyperkalemia, and acute renal failure. While potent or extended doses of propofol have been found to be the primary precipitating factor of this condition, others such as age, critical illness, steroid therapy, and hyperlipidemia have been discovered to play a role as well. This bibliometric analysis was done to reflect the current relevance and understanding of PRIS in recent literature. The SCOPUS database was utilized to conduct a search for articles with keywords "propofol infusion syndrome" and "propofol syndrome" from February 24, 2001, until April 16, 2023, with parameters for article title, citation number, citation per year, author, institution, publishing journal, and country of origin. PRIS was first defined in 1990, just a year after its approval by the Food and Drug Administration for use as a sedative-hypnotic. Since then, interest in PRIS slowly rose up to 13 publications per year in 2013. Seven papers on the topic were published in Critical Care Medicine, six in Neurocritical Care, and four in Anesthesia. The most common institutions were Mayo Clinic, Northeastern University, and Tufts Medical Center. To our knowledge, this is the first bibliometric analysis to evaluate the most influential publications about PRIS. A majority of the research is case-based, possibly owing to the rarity of the condition. Our research suggests that confounding factors outside the precipitating dosage of propofol may be implicated in the onset and progression of PRIS. This study could therefore bring renewed interest to the topic and lead to additional research focused on fully understanding the pathophysiology of PRIS in order to promote the development of novel diagnostics and treatment.

Management of Status Epilepticus by Different Pediatric Departments: Neurology, Intensive Care, and Emergency Medicine

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to explore the differences in status epilepticus (SE) management among pediatric neurology, emergency medicine, and intensive care specialists in Turkey.

METHODS

A 22-item questionnaire regarding first-, second-, and third-line management strategies of SE including demographic characteristics and common etiologies according to the specialty of participants was mailed to 370 specialists working in Turkey.

RESULTS

A total of 334 participants (response rate 90%) comprising 136 pediatric neurologists, 102 pediatric emergency medicine specialists, and 96 pediatric intensive care specialists completed the survey. While intensive care specialists frequently managed SE due to metabolic and autoimmune reasons, the most common etiologies encountered by emergency medicine specialists were epilepsy and infections. More than half of the intensive care specialists (64.6%) reported using non-BZD antiseizure medications in the 5th minute of the seizure. Most of the neurologists (76.4%) preferred to administer intravenous (IV) levetiracetam infusion as a second-line agent. About half of intensive care specialists and neurologists tried immunomodulatory therapies in super-refractory SE. Intensive care and emergency medicine specialists were less likely to favor ketogenic diet and pyridoxine therapy for the treatment of super-refractory SE. The rate of requesting EEG monitoring to recognize nonconvulsive SE (NCSE) was found to be very low except for neurologists.

CONCLUSION

There was no consensus among neurologists, intensive care specialists, and emergency medicine specialists in the management of SE in Turkey. Familiarity with particular antiseizure medications and the etiologies they manage seem to be the most important factors influencing the attitudes.

The validity and reliability of Turkish version of the self-efficacy scale in nursing care of children with epilepsy

PURPOSE

This study was conducted to the Turkish validity and reliability study of the 'Scale of Self-efficacy in Nursing Care of Children with Epilepsy' (SSENCCE).

DESIGN AND METHODS

The construct validity of the scale was evaluated with explanatory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis. The reliability of the scales used in the research was examined with composite reliability and Cronbach's alpha coefficients.

RESULTS

A total of 144 nurses participated in the study. The variance explained in the 12-item scale was 53.6%, and the eigenvalue was found as 6.442. The commonality values of the scale items ranged from 0.304 to 0.712, and the factor loads ranged from 0.552 to 0.844. Cronbach's α of the SSENCCE was calculated as 0.907.

CONCLUSION

The Turkish version of the ESSENCE is a valid, reliable, and appropriate tool for assessing the self-efficacy of nurses providing care for children with epilepsy.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Considering that there is no scale that is used to evaluate the self-efficacy of nurses who provide care for children with epilepsy in Turkey, it is thought that this study will guide future research on the subject and the improvement of the clinical experience of nurses.

Phenotypic expansion of KCNH1-associated disorders to include isolated epilepsy and its associations with genotypes and molecular sub-regional locations

PURPOSE

Genotype-phenotypic correlation of KCNH1 variant remains elusive. This study aimed to expand the phenotypic spectrum of KCNH1 and explore the correlations between epilepsy and molecular sub-regional locations.

METHODS

We performed whole-exome sequencing in a cohort of 98 patients with familiar febrile seizure (FS) or epilepsy with unexplained etiologies. The damaging effects of variants were predicted by protein modeling and multiple in silico tools. All reported patients with KCNH1 pathogenic variants with detailed neurological phenotypes were analyzed to evaluate the genotype-phenotype correlation.

RESULTS

Two novel KCNH1 variants were identified in three cases, including two patients with FS with inherited variant (p.Ile113Thr) and one boy with epilepsy with de novo variant (p.Arg357Trp). Variant Ile113Thr was located within the eag domain, and variant p.Arg357Trp was located in transmembrane domain 4 of KCNH1, respectively. Two patients experienced refractory status epilepticus (SE), of which one patient died of acute encephalopathy induced by SE. Further analysis of 30 variants in 51 patients demonstrated that de novo variants were associated with epileptic encephalopathy, while mosaic/somatic or germline variants cause isolated epilepsy/FS. All hotspot variants associated with epileptic encephalopathy clustered in transmembrane domain (S4 and S6), while those with isolated epilepsy/seizures or TBS/ZLS without epilepsy were scattered in the KCNH1.

CONCLUSIONS

We found two novel missense variants of KCNH1 in three individuals with isolated FS/epilepsy. Variants in the KCNH1 cause a spectrum of epileptic disorders ranging from a benign form of genetic isolated epilepsy/FS to intractable form of epileptic encephalopathy. The genotypes and variant locations help explaining the phenotypic variation of patients with KCNH1 variant.

Çocuk Acile İlk Nöbet ile Başvuran Olguların Değerlendirilmesi

Amaç: Pediatrik nöbet, altındaki birçok farklı nedene bağlı oluşan ve ailelerde korku ile endişeye yol açan bir durumdur. Çalışmamızda hastanemize başvuran pediatrik nöbet olgularının değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Gereç ve Yöntem: Mayıs 2018 ile Mayıs 2020 tarihleri arasında hastanemiz çocuk aciline nöbet ile başvuran 0-18 yaş arası hastalar retrospektif olarak incelendi. Hastalar yaş, cinsiyet, nöbet tipleri, ailesel genetik yatkınlık, tetkik, tedavi ve takip açısından değerlendirildi. Nöbetler International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) 2017 sınıflamasına göre fokal ve jenaralize olarak 2 gruba ayrıldı. Hastaların kranial manyetik rezonans görüntüleme ve elektroensefalografi kayıtları ile uygulanan tedavi yöntemleri değerlendirildi. Bulgular: Çalışmaya dahil edilen 118 hastanın 70 ‘i (%59) kız, 48’ i (%41) erkekti. Yaş ortalaması 60 (3-192) ay idi. Aile öyküsü 18 (% 15) olguda mevcuttu. Nöbetlerin 8’ i (% 7) parsiyel, 110’ u (% 93) jenaralize nöbetti. Febril nöbet olarak değerlendirilen 36 hastanın 5’ inde 24 saat içerisinde nöbet tekrarı görüldüğü için komplike febril nöbet olarak değerlendirilip ilaç tedavisi başlandı. Diğer 31 hasta basit febril nöbet olarak değerlendirildi. Nöbet etiyolojisinde hiçbir olguda biyokimyasal anormallik yoktu. Kranial manyetik rezonans görüntülemede 2 hastada polimikrogri, 2 hastada hidrosefali, 1 hastada beyin tümörü ve 1 hastada da arteriovenoz malformasyon saptandı. Sonuç: Nöbet ile başvuran olgularda altta yatan nedenler tespit edilerek tedavileri düzenlenmelidir. Tekrarlayan nöbetleri olan olguların da yakın takibe alınması gerekmektedir.

Brain pathology in focal status epilepticus: evidence from experimental models

Status Epilepticus (SE) is often a neurological emergency characterized by abnormally sustained, longer than habitual seizures. The new ILAE classification reports that SE "…can have long-term consequences including neuronal death, neuronal injury…depending on the type and duration of seizures". While it is accepted that generalized convulsive SE exerts detrimental effects on the brain, it is not clear if other forms of SE, such as focal non-convulsive SE, leads to brain pathology and contributes to long-term deficits in patients. With the available clinical and experimental data, it is hard to discriminate the specific action of the underlying SE etiologies from that exerted by epileptiform activity. This information is highly relevant in the clinic for better treatment stratification, which may include both medical and surgical intervention for seizure control. Here we review experimental studies of focal SE, with an emphasis on focal non-convulsive SE. We present a repertoire of brain pathologies observed in the most commonly used animal models and attempt to establish a link between experimental findings and human condition(s). The extensive literature on focal SE animal models suggest that the current approaches have significant limitations in terms of translatability of the findings to the clinic. We highlight the need for a more stringent description of SE features and brain pathology in experimental studies in animal models, to improve the accuracy in predicting clinical translation.

Treatment Outcomes of Pediatric Status Epilepticus in a Tertiary Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

OBJECTIVE

Status epilepticus is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality; thus, early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial. We aimed to study the etiology, clinical features, and treatment among pediatric patients with convulsive status epilepticus.

METHODS

The medical records of 100 patients were retrospectively obtained from pediatric intensive care unit. Etiology, clinical features, and treatment were interpreted by using Fisher exact test, χ2 test, and Spearman ρ correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Seizures had stopped with the first-, second-, and third-line treatment in 29%, 36%, and 35% of the patients, respectively. Only phenytoin treatment was efficient; it has 32.3% rate in second-line treatment. Whereas mortality rate was 10%, morbidity rate was 14% during the follow-up. Epilepsy, hemiparesis, spastic tetraparesis, and mental retardation developed. Mortality was significantly much more in the patients with refractory seizure and cerebral palsy. Development of mental retardation was much higher in the male sex.

CONCLUSIONS

Phenytoin is still one of the most efficient antiepileptic drugs. If the duration of status epilepticus can be shortened by prompt treatment, neurological complications may be prevented.

Indications for Inpatient Magnetoencephalography in Children - An Institution's Experience

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is recognized as a valuable non-invasive clinical method for localization of the epileptogenic zone and critical functional areas, as part of a pre-surgical evaluation for patients with pharmaco-resistant epilepsy. MEG is also useful in localizing functional areas as part of pre-surgical planning for tumor resection. MEG is usually performed in an outpatient setting, as one part of an evaluation that can include a variety of other testing modalities including 3-Tesla MRI and inpatient video-electroencephalography monitoring. In some clinical circumstances, however, completion of the MEG as an inpatient can provide crucial ictal or interictal localization data during an ongoing inpatient evaluation, in order to expedite medical or surgical planning. Despite well-established clinical indications for performing MEG in general, there are no current reports that discuss indications or considerations for completion of MEG on an inpatient basis. We conducted a retrospective institutional review of all pediatric MEGs performed between January 2012 and December 2020, and identified 34 cases where MEG was completed as an inpatient. We then reviewed all relevant medical records to determine clinical history, all associated diagnostic procedures, and subsequent treatment plans including epilepsy surgery and post-surgical outcomes. In doing so, we were able to identify five indications for completing the MEG on an inpatient basis: (1) super-refractory status epilepticus (SRSE), (2) intractable epilepsy with frequent electroclinical seizures, and/or frequent or repeated episodes of status epilepticus, (3) intractable epilepsy with infrequent epileptiform discharges on EEG or outpatient MEG, or other special circumstances necessitating inpatient monitoring for successful and safe MEG data acquisition, (4) MEG mapping of eloquent cortex or interictal spike localization in the setting of tumor resection or other urgent neurosurgical intervention, and (5) international or long-distance patients, where outpatient MEG is not possible or practical. MEG contributed to surgical decision-making in the majority of our cases (32 of 34). Our clinical experience suggests that MEG should be considered on an inpatient basis in certain clinical circumstances, where MEG data can provide essential information regarding the localization of epileptogenic activity or eloquent cortex, and be used to develop a treatment plan for surgical management of children with complicated or intractable epilepsy.

Principles of Pharmacotherapy of Seizures and Status Epilepticus

Status epilepticus is a neurological emergency with an outcome that is highly associated with the initial pharmacotherapy management that must be administered in a timely fashion. Beyond first-line therapy of status epilepticus, treatment is not guided by robust evidence. Optimal pharmacotherapy selection for individual patients is essential in the management of seizures and status epilepticus with careful evaluation of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic factors. With the addition of newer antiseizure agents to the market, understanding their role in the management of status epilepticus is critical. Etiology-guided therapy should be considered in certain patients with drug-induced seizures, alcohol withdrawal, or autoimmune encephalitis. Some patient populations warrant special consideration, such as pediatric, pregnant, elderly, and the critically ill. Seizure prophylaxis is indicated in select patients with acute neurological injury and should be limited to the acute postinjury period.

Status Epilepticus-Work-Up and Management in Children

Status epilepticus (SE) is one of the most common neurological emergencies in children and has a mortality of 2 to 4%. Admissions for SE are very resource-consuming, especially in refractory and super-refractory SE. An increasing understanding of the pathophysiology of SE leaves room for improving SE treatment protocols, including medication choice and timing. Selecting the most efficacious medications and giving them in a timely manner may improve outcomes. Benzodiazepines are commonly used as first line and they can be used in the prehospital setting, where most SE episodes begin. The diagnostic work-up should start simultaneously to initial treatment, or as soon as possible, to detect potentially treatable causes of SE. Although most etiologies are recognized after the first evaluation, the detection of more unusual causes may become challenging in selected cases. SE is a life-threatening medical emergency in which prompt and efficacious treatment may improve outcomes. We provide a summary of existing evidence to guide clinical decisions regarding the work-up and treatment of SE in pediatric patients.

Intramuscular Midazolam for treatment of Status Epilepticus

INTRODUCTION

Status epilepticus (SE) is a common neurological and medical emergency. It has high mortality and morbidity rates, which typically correlate with seizure semiology and duration; therefore, prompt and proper pharmacological intervention is paramount. In a pre-hospital setting, establishing venous access can be difficult, so other routes of drug administration should be considered.

AREAS COVERED

The paper summarizes the data from the literature and provides an evaluation of the efficacy and safety of intramuscular midazolam (IM MDZ) as it pertains to the management of acute seizures and SE.

EXPERT OPINION

The cascade of events involved in the genesis and sustenance of seizures, if not promptly stopped, lead to the perpetuation of the condition and may contribute to the refractoriness of pharmacological treatment. Hence, non-venous routes for drug administration were developed to allow untrained personnel to rapidly stop seizures. Among benzodiazepines (BDZs), IM MDZ is at least as effective and safe as other intravenously administered BDZs. Moreover, thanks to IM MDZ's favorable pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile, it is a promising alternative to other non-venous drugs such as intranasal-MDZ, buccal-MDZ, and rectal-diazepam in the pre-hospital management of SE cases with motor features.

Evaluation of adherence to pediatric status epilepticus management guidelines in Saudi Arabia

Objectives:

To assess compliance with the 2017 Saudi pediatric status epilepticus management guidelines and to printout the main obstacle for adherence to the guidelines.

Methods:

A Cross sectional study conducted in September 2019, using electronic survey. The survey sent to all the Pediatric Emergency physicians practicing in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) through emails and WhatsApp and the questionnaire based on clinical scenario written in English language.

Results:

One hundred and three (70%) of 147 physicians working in KSA and covering pediatric emergency departments responded to the survey. Only 20% of the physicians reported full compliance to all 4 guideline components; 57% reported that they were not aware of the published guidelines.

Conclusion:

Pediatric emergency physicians reported poor compliance to the 2017 published guidelines for the treatment of children with convulsive status epilepticus in KSA.

Diagnostic evaluation and management of seizures and status epilepticus in children with known epilepsy or new-onset seizures: A retrospective and comparative analysis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the initial management, including clinical/biological investigation and treatment, of new-onset seizures and status epilepticus (SE) in children versus seizures and SE in those with known epilepsy.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, single-center, observational study conducted in an urban pediatric hospital in Paris. All patients, aged from 1 month to 18 years, admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit, the high-dependency care unit, and those who required hospitalization in the short-term unit of the emergency department between January 1 and December 31, 2014 for seizures and/or SE were included.

RESULTS

We analyzed the data of 190 children: new-onset seizures (N=118; group A) versus those with known epilepsy (N=72; group B). At least one diagnostic test was performed on 156 patients (82.1%) (group A, N=104, 88.1%; group B, N=52, 72.2%; P=0.05). In group B, blood levels of antiepileptic drugs were measured in 14 of the 38 patients with SE, of whom six were under dosed. Treatments were: first line, diazepam (group A, 80%; group B, 46%; P<0.001); second line, diazepam (group A, 56%; group B, 34%; P=0.02) or clonazepam (group A, 24%; group B, 46%; P=0.001); third line, phenytoin (group A, 54%; group B, 22%; P<0.001) or clonazepam (group A, 18%; group B, 61%; P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Diagnostic evaluation and treatment should be individualized for children with known epilepsy.

Anticonvulsant and Neuroprotective Effects of Dexmedetomidine on Pilocarpine-Induced Status Epilepticus in Rats Using a Metabolomics Approach

Background

Status epilepticus (SE) is the most extreme form of seizure. It is a medical and neurological emergency that requires prompt and appropriate treatment and early neuroprotection. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is mainly used for its sedative, analgesic, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective effects with light respiratory depression. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively analyze the metabolic events associated with anticonvulsion and neuroprotection of DEX on pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus rats by LC-MS/MS-based on metabolomics methods combined with histopathology.

Material/Methods

In this research, rats were divided into 3 groups: a normal group, an SE group, and an SE+DEX group. Hippocampus of rats from each group were collected for further LC-MS/MS-based metabolomic analysis. We collected brains for HE staining and Nissl staining. Multivariate analysis and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed.

Results

Results of metabolic profiles of the hippocampus tissues of rats proved that dexmedetomidine relieved rats suffering from the status epilepticus by restoring the damaged neuromodulatory metabolism and neurotransmitters, reducing the disturbance in energy, improving oxidative stress, and alleviating nucleic acid metabolism and amino acid in pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus rats.

Conclusions

This integral metabolomics research provides an extremely effective method to access the therapeutic effects of DEX. This research will further development of new treats for status epilepticus and provide new insights into the anticonvulsive and neuroprotective effects of DEX on status epilepticus.

Potential consequences of high-dose infusion of ketamine for refractory status epilepticus: case reports and systematic literature review

Our goal was to provide comprehensive data on the effectiveness of ketamine in refractory status epilepticus (RSE) and to describe the potential consequences of long-term ketamine infusion. Ketamine, an N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, blocks excitatory pathways contributing to ongoing seizure. While ketamine use is standard in anaesthetic induction, no definitive protocol exists for its use in RSE, and little is known about its adverse effects in long-term, high-dose administration. We present two cases of RSE that responded rapidly to ketamine infusion, both with fatal outcomes secondary to metabolic acidosis and cardiovascular collapse. We performed a systematic review of the application and consequences of ketamine use in RSE. PubMed, Ovid, MEDLINE and PMC were searched for articles describing ketamine treatment for RSE according to a predetermined search strategy and inclusion criteria. The systematic review revealed wide discrepancies in ketamine dosing (infusion maintenance dose range 0.0075-10.5 mg/kg/hour), but good outcomes in medically managed RSE (75% of studies reported moderate or complete seizure control in adults, 62.5% in paediatrics). Additionally, literature review elucidated a potentially causal relationship between prolonged ketamine infusion and both cardiovascular and metabolic dysregulation. Ketamine is effective in RSE by antagonising excitotoxic NMDA receptors. However, there is high variability in ketamine dosing and scarce data on its safety in long-term infusion. Metabolic acidosis and haemodynamic instability associated with the use of long-term, high-dose ketamine infusions must be of concern to clinicians administering ketamine to critically ill patients.

Long-term outcomes of status epilepticus: A critical assessment

We reviewed 37 studies reporting long-term outcomes after a status epilepticus (SE) episode in pediatric and adult populations. Study design, length of follow-up, outcome measures, domains investigated (mortality, SE recurrence, subsequent epilepsy, cognitive outcome, functional outcome, or quality of life), and predictors of long-term outcomes are summarized. Despite heterogeneity in the design of prior studies, overall risk of poor long-term outcome after SE is high in both children and adults. Etiology is the main determinant of outcome, and the effect of age or SE duration is often difficult to distinguish from the underlying cause. The effect of the treatment on long-term outcome after SE is still unknown.

Neurologic Complications in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

All critical care is directed at maintaining brain health, but recognizing neurologic complications of critical illness in children is difficult, and limited data exist to guide practice. This article discusses an approach to the recognition and management of seizures, stroke, and cardiac arrest as complications of other critical illnesses in the pediatric intensive care unit.

RECENT FINDINGS

Convulsive and nonconvulsive seizures occur frequently in children after cardiac arrest or traumatic brain injury and during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Seizures may add to neurologic morbidity, and continuous EEG monitoring is needed for up to 24 hours for detection. Hypothermia has not been shown to improve outcome after cardiac arrest in children, but targeted temperature management with controlled normothermia and prevention of fever is a mainstay of neuroprotection.

SUMMARY

Much of brain-directed pediatric critical care is empiric. Recognition of neurologic complications of critical illness requires multidisciplinary care, serial neurologic examinations, and an appreciation for the multiple risk factors for neurologic injury present in most patients in the pediatric intensive care unit. Through attention to the fundamentals of neuroprotection, including maintaining or restoring cerebral perfusion matched to the metabolic needs of the brain, combined with anticipatory planning, these complications can be prevented or the neurologic injury mitigated.

Decreasing Seizure Treatment Time Through Quality Improvement Reduces Critical Care Utilization

BACKGROUND

Rapid, effective treatment for status epilepticus reduces associated morbidity and mortality, yet medication delivery remains slow in many hospitalized patients. We utilized quality improvement (QI) methodology to improve treatment times for hospitalized children with status epilepticus. We hypothesized rapid initial seizure treatment would decrease seizure morbidity.

METHODS

We utilized QI and statistical process control analysis in a nonintensive care setting within a tertiary care pediatric hospital. We performed Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles including (1) revising the nursing process for responding to seizures, (2) emphasizing intranasal midazolam over intravenous lorazepam, (3) relocating medications and supplies, (4) developing documentation tools and reinforcing correct processes, (5) developing and disseminating an online education module for residents and nurse practitioners, and (6) completing standardization to intranasal midazolam.

RESULTS

Seventeen months after starting the project, 66 seizures had been treated with a benzodiazepine in a median (p₂₅-p₇₅) time of 7.5 minutes (5 to 10), decreased from a baseline of 14 minutes (8-30) (P = 0.01). The proportion of patients receiving a benzodiazepine in 10 minutes or less improved from 39% to 79%. The proportion of patients transferred to intensive care decreased from a baseline of 39% to 9% (P < 0.005), resulting in an estimated $2.1 million in mitigated hospital charges. Significant harm did not occur during the implementation of these interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with status epilepticus were treated with benzodiazepines more rapidly and effectively following implementation of QI methodology. These interventions reduced utilization of critical care and mitigated hospital charges.

Factors associated with treatment delays in pediatric refractory convulsive status epilepticus

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with treatment delays in pediatric patients with convulsive refractory status epilepticus (rSE).

METHODS

This prospective, observational study was performed from June 2011 to March 2017 on pediatric patients (1 month to 21 years of age) with rSE. We evaluated potential factors associated with increased treatment delays in a Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

We studied 219 patients (53% males) with a median (25th-75th percentiles [p₂₅-p₇₅]) age of 3.9 (1.2-9.5) years in whom rSE started out of hospital (141 [64.4%]) or in hospital (78 [35.6%]). The median (p₂₅-p₇₅) time from seizure onset to treatment was 16 (5-45) minutes to first benzodiazepine (BZD), 63 (33-146) minutes to first non-BZD antiepileptic drug (AED), and 170 (107-539) minutes to first continuous infusion. Factors associated with more delays to administration of the first BZD were intermittent rSE (hazard ratio [HR] 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14-2.09; p = 0.0467) and out-of-hospital rSE onset (HR 1.5, 95% CI 1.11-2.04; p = 0.0467). Factors associated with more delays to administration of the first non-BZD AED were intermittent rSE (HR 1.78, 95% CI 1.32-2.4; p = 0.001) and out-of-hospital rSE onset (HR 2.25, 95% CI 1.67-3.02; p < 0.0001). None of the studied factors were associated with a delayed administration of continuous infusion.

CONCLUSION

Intermittent rSE and out-of-hospital rSE onset are independently associated with longer delays to administration of the first BZD and the first non-BZD AED in pediatric rSE. These factors identify potential targets for intervention to reduce time to treatment.

Increasing Ketamine Use for Refractory Status Epilepticus in US Pediatric Hospitals

Ketamine is an emerging therapy for pediatric refractory status epilepticus. The circumstances of its use, however, are understudied. The authors described pediatric refractory status epilepticus treated with ketamine from 2010 to 2014 at 45 centers using the Pediatric Hospital Inpatient System database. For comparison, they described children treated with pentobarbital. The authors estimated that 48 children received ketamine and pentobarbital for refractory status epilepticus, and 630 pentobarbital without ketamine. Those receiving only pentobarbital were median age 3 [interquartile range 0-10], and spent 30 [18-52] days in-hospital, including 17 [9-28] intensive care unit (ICU) days; 17% died. Median cost was $148 000 [81 000-241 000]. The pentobarbital-ketamine group was older (7 [2-11]) with longer hospital stays (51 [30-93]) and more ICU days (29 [20-56]); 29% died. Median cost was $298 000 [176 000-607 000]. For 71%, ketamine was given ≥1 day after pentobarbital. Ketamine cases per half-year increased from 2 to 9 ( P < .05). Ketamine is increasingly used for severe pediatric refractory status epilepticus, typically after pentobarbital. Research on its effectiveness is indicated.

Pediatric Boot Camp Series: Infant With Altered Mental Status and Seizure-A Case of Child Abuse

INTRODUCTION

Child abuse, also known as nonaccidental trauma (NAT), is an important cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality. The presentation of NAT is often confounded by unclear histories and victims who are unable to provide information. Medical students and trainees may fail to consider NAT as a diagnosis or be unfamiliar with the evaluation process.

METHODS

This curriculum uses simulation, small-group discussion, and didactics to help medical students gain an understanding of presentation of NAT. Using the case of a 2-month-old boy presenting with altered mental status and seizure, participants practice the assessment and management of an acutely ill patient. Small-group discussions facilitate schema building to enhance each participant's ability to recognize and diagnose different diseases that may present as infant seizure and to identify the signs of NAT. Didactics solidify concepts addressed during the simulation and small-group discussions.

RESULTS

Medical students participating in this course reported that they felt better prepared for their internships and that working through a case with a large differential diagnosis was helpful for their understanding of causes of infant seizures, including abusive head trauma.

DISCUSSION

This curriculum is unique in that it uses one unifying case to allow participants to demonstrate an understanding of the evaluation and stabilization of a critically ill pediatric patient, develop a broad differential diagnosis for a nonspecific symptom, and prioritize and evaluate possible etiologies through the gathering and interpretation of data. This curriculum may be used independently or in conjunction with other learning activities as part of a pediatric boot camp.

Management of status epilepticus

Status epilepticus is a neurologic and medical emergency manifested by prolonged seizure activity or multiple seizures without return to baseline. It is associated with substantial medical cost, morbidity, and mortality. There is a spectrum of severity dependent on the type of seizure, underlying pathology, comorbidities, and appropriate and timely medical management. This chapter discusses the evolving definitions of status epilepticus and multiple patient and clinical factors which influence outcome. The pathophysiology of status epilepticus is reviewed to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms which contribute to status epilepticus, as well as the potential long-term effects. The clinical presentations of different types of status epilepticus in adults are discussed, with emphasis on the hospital course and management of the most dangerous type, generalized convulsive status epilepticus. Strategies for the evaluation and management of status epilepticus are provided based on available evidence from clinical trials and recommendations from the Neurocritical Care Society and the European Federation of Neurological Societies.

Refractory status epilepticus in children with and without prior epilepsy or status epilepticus

OBJECTIVE

To compare refractory convulsive status epilepticus (rSE) management and outcome in children with and without a prior diagnosis of epilepsy and with and without a history of status epilepticus (SE).

METHODS

This was a prospective observational descriptive study performed from June 2011 to May 2016 on pediatric patients (1 month-21 years of age) with rSE.

RESULTS

We enrolled 189 participants (53% male) with a median (25th-75th percentile) age of 4.2 (1.3-9.6) years. Eighty-nine (47%) patients had a prior diagnosis of epilepsy. Thirty-four (18%) patients had a history of SE. The time to the first benzodiazepine was similar in participants with and without a diagnosis of epilepsy (15 [5-60] vs 16.5 [5-42.75] minutes, p = 0.858). Patients with a diagnosis of epilepsy received their first non-benzodiazepine (BZD) antiepileptic drug (AED) later (93 [46-190] vs 50.5 [28-116] minutes, p = 0.002) and were less likely to receive at least one continuous infusion (35/89 [39.3%] vs 57/100 [57%], p = 0.03). Compared to patients with no history of SE, patients with a history of SE received their first BZD earlier (8 [3.5-22.3] vs 20 [5-60] minutes, p = 0.0073), although they had a similar time to first non-BZD AED (76.5 [45.3-124] vs 65 [32.5-156] minutes, p = 0.749). Differences were mostly driven by the patients with an out-of-hospital rSE onset.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study establishes that children with rSE do not receive more timely treatment if they have a prior diagnosis of epilepsy; however, a history of SE is associated with more timely administration of abortive medication.

Management of the Pediatric Neurocritical Care Patient

Pediatric neurocritical care is a growing subspecialty of pediatric intensive care that focuses on the management of acute neurological diseases in children. A brief history of the field of pediatric neurocritical care is provided. Neuromonitoring strategies for children are reviewed. Management of major categories of acute childhood central neurologic diseases are reviewed, including treatment of diseases associated with intracranial hypertension, seizures and status epilepticus, stroke, central nervous system infection and inflammation, and hypoxic-ischemic injury.

Pediatric Emergency Medicine Simulation Curriculum: Hyponatremic Seizures

INTRODUCTION

Seizures are a common complaint in the pediatric emergency department. Effective care of this potentially life-threatening medical emergency requires the ability to stabilize the patient while simultaneously identifying and treating the underlying cause. This simulation-based curriculum involves the identification and management of a generalized seizure in a 4-month-old infant secondary to hyponatremia. The target audience is pediatric and emergency medicine residents, fellows, faculty, and nurses.

METHODS

There is no prerequisite preparation for the trainees prior to the case. The simulation scenario, simulation environment preparation, teamwork and communication glossary, and PowerPoint presentation are provided for the instructor in preparation for the simulation case. The setting is the emergency department (ED) resuscitation room. The simulation can be conducted in the ED resuscitation room or in the simulation lab. We used a high-fidelity infant mannequin. The debriefing tools have been tailored specifically for this scenario with advice on how the instructor can edit them for different learners.

RESULTS

We have used this curriculum with a group of six pediatric emergency medicine fellows at various stages of their training at our institution. The curriculum received overwhelmingly positive feedback through the evaluation form.

DISCUSSION

This resource will help support standardization of the teaching process, assisting simulation instructors to maximize their impact. In our experience, we have found that instructors who teach intermittently can successfully foster simulation-based education using similar resources. The inclusion of a learner feedback form supports the instructor's ongoing growth while helping faculty to document their teaching efforts.

Refractory Status Epilepticus in Children: Intention to Treat With Continuous Infusions of Midazolam and Pentobarbital

OBJECTIVE

To describe pediatric patients with convulsive refractory status epilepticus in whom there is intention to use an IV anesthetic for seizure control.

DESIGN

Two-year prospective observational study evaluating patients (age range, 1 mo to 21 yr) with refractory status epilepticus not responding to two antiepileptic drug classes and treated with continuous infusion of anesthetic agent.

SETTING

Nine pediatric hospitals in the United States.

PATIENTS

In a cohort of 111 patients with refractory status epilepticus (median age, 3.7 yr; 50% male), 54 (49%) underwent continuous infusion of anesthetic treatment.

MAIN RESULTS

The median (interquartile range) ICU length of stay was 10 (3-20) days. Up to four "cycles" of serial anesthetic therapy were used, and seizure termination was achieved in 94% by the second cycle. Seizure duration in controlled patients was 5.9 (1.9-34) hours for the first cycle and longer when a second cycle was required (30 [4-120] hr; p = 0.048). Midazolam was the most frequent first-line anesthetic agent (78%); pentobarbital was the most frequently used second-line agent after midazolam failure (82%). An electroencephalographic endpoint was used in over half of the patients; higher midazolam dosing was used with a burst suppression endpoint. In midazolam nonresponders, transition to a second agent occurred after a median of 1 day. Most patients (94%) experienced seizure termination with these two therapies.

CONCLUSIONS

Midazolam and pentobarbital remain the mainstay of continuous infusion therapy for refractory status epilepticus in the pediatric patient. The majority of patients experience seizure termination within a median of 30 hours. These data have implications for the design and feasibility of future intervention trials. That is, testing a new anesthetic anticonvulsant after failure of both midazolam and pentobarbital is unlikely to be feasible in a pediatric study, whereas a decision to test an alternative to pentobarbital, after midazolam failure, may be possible in a multicenter multinational study.

Status Epilepticus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Status epilepticus, which is simultaneously a neurologic and systemic emergency, often results in significant disability and may be fatal. This article presents a pragmatic approach to the evaluation and management of status epilepticus in adults for the practicing clinician.

RECENT FINDINGS

Rapid recognition, treatment respecting a written protocol, and careful attention to potential complications may limit sequelae. Studies aimed at earlier identification of etiologies in cryptogenic status epilepticus and improving the treatment of established status epilepticus are urgently needed to limit the development of refractoriness.

SUMMARY

This article reviews the guidelines and up-to-date information on the use of both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies in status epilepticus and discusses the shifts in our understanding of the balance between the need for aggressive control of seizures and the risks of treatment. This article also presents a suggested approach to the evaluation and management of common types of status epilepticus and explores future directions.

Status epilepticus and refractory status epilepticus management

Status epilepticus (SE) describes persistent or recurring seizures without a return to baseline mental status and is a common neurologic emergency. SE can occur in the context of epilepsy or may be symptomatic of a wide range of underlying etiologies. The clinician's aim is to rapidly institute care that simultaneously stabilizes the patient medically, identifies and manages any precipitant conditions, and terminates seizures. Seizure management involves "emergent" treatment with benzodiazepines followed by "urgent" therapy with other antiseizure medications. If seizures persist, then refractory SE is diagnosed and management options include additional antiseizure medications or infusions of midazolam or pentobarbital. This article reviews the management of pediatric SE and refractory SE.