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Miklus V, Trout L, Even K. Levetiracetam Dosing Based on Glasgow Coma Scale Scores in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury Patients. Neuropediatrics 2024. [PMID: 38740070 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1786796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) increases the risk of early posttraumatic seizures (EPTS). Guidelines suggest the use of prophylactic antiseizure agents, including levetiracetam. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of using levetiracetam dosing based on Glasgow Comas Scale (GCS) scores with higher doses used for more severe TBI. METHODS Patients 6 months to 18 years old admitted to Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital (PSHCH) with a TBI who received levetiracetam for EPTS prophylaxis with at least one documented GCS score were included. Patients were divided into two cohorts: before and after implementation of the pediatric TBI Cerner PowerPlan at PSHCH which standardized levetiracetam dosing based on GCS scores. Primary outcome was appropriate dosing of levetiracetam based on GCS. Secondary outcomes included seizure occurrence and adverse effects. RESULTS Eighty-five patients were included: 42 in the pre-PowerPlan group and 43 in the post-PowerPlan group. Overall, 46 (54%) patients received the appropriate levetiracetam dose based on GCS (pre-PowerPlan, n = 19 [45%] vs. post-PowerPlan n = 27 [63%], p = 0.104). Sixty-four percent of severe TBI patients received appropriate levetiracetam dosing after implantation of the PowerPlan compared with 28% prior to the PowerPlan (p = 0.039). Three patients in each group experienced a seizure while on levetiracetam. Two patients experienced agitation and somnolence attributed to levetiracetam. CONCLUSION Levetiracetam dosing based on GCS scores in pediatric TBI patients is a novel approach, and dosing accuracy may be increased with use of a PowerPlan. Additional large-scale studies are needed to evaluate efficacy and safety of this approach prior to widespread implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Miklus
- Department of Pharmacy, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Lindsay Trout
- Department of Pharmacy, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Katelyn Even
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States
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Karamian A, Farzaneh H, Taheri M, Seifi A. Effectiveness of Levetiracetam versus phenytoin in preventing seizure in traumatic brain injury patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2024; 240:108251. [PMID: 38569246 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2024.108251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the subsequent Post-traumatic seizure (PTS) is a growing public health concern. Generally, anti-seizure drugs (ASDs) are recommended for PTS prophylaxis and treatment. This meta-analysis aimed to review the current state of knowledge and the evidence for the efficacy and safety of Levetiracetam (LEV) on the incidence of seizure in TBI patients compared to Phenytoin (PHT). METHODS A search was carried out based on PubMed, MEDLINE, Europe PMC database, and Cochrane Library up to November 2023. A total of 16 studies (3 randomized clinical trials, 10 retrospective cohort studies, and 3 prospective cohort studies) including 5821 TBI patients included in our meta-analysis. We included studies comparing LEV and PHT after brain injury in both adults and children. Risk of bias assessment was done for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a risk-of-bias tool (RoB-2) and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of cohort studies. Two RCTs in our meta-analysis had a high risk of bias, therefore we applied sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness of our results. RESULTS The most commonly reported dosage for LEV was 500 mg twice daily and for PHT it was 5 mg/kg. There was no significant difference between LEV and PHT groups in reducing the early seizure incidence (OR = 0.85; 95% CI = [0.60, 1.21]; p = 0.375, fixed-effect, I2 = 21.75%). The result of sensitivity analysis for late seizure showed no significant difference between LEV and PHT in reducing the late seizure occurrence after TBI (OR = 0.87; 95% CI = [0.21, 3.67]; p = 0.853, fixed-effect, I2 = 0%). The mortality in TBI patients treated with LEV was not statistically significant compared to the PHT group (OR = 1.11; 95% CI = [0.92, 1.34], p = 0.266). The length of stay in the hospital was not significantly different between the LEV and PHT groups (MD = -1.33; 95% CI = [-4.55, 1.90]; p = 0.421). However, in comparison to PHT, LEV shortened the length of ICU stay (MD = -2.25; 95% CI = [-3.58, -0.91]; p =0.001). In terms of adverse effects, more patients in the PHT group have experienced adverse events compared to LEV but the difference was not significant (OR = 0.69; 95% CI = [0.44, 1.08]; p = 0. 11). CONCLUSION The results of our meta-analysis showed LEV and PHT have similar effects on the occurrence of early and late seizures in TBI patients. Therefore, none of the drugs is superior to the other in reducing PTS. However, treating TBI patients with LEV did not shorten the length of hospital stay in comparison to PHT but reduced the length of ICU stay significantly. The analysis showed that patients in the LEV experienced fewer side effects than in the PHT group, while it was not sufficiently clear whether all reported side effects were related to the drug alone or other factors. The mortality was similar between the LEV and PHT groups. Finally, we recommend more high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm the current findings before making any recommendations in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Karamian
- School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hana Farzaneh
- Department of Radiology (Neuroradiology) at Massachusetts General Hospital, United States
| | - Mojtaba Taheri
- Department of Surgery, University of Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ali Seifi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Neurocritical Care, University of Texas Health at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, United States.
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Frontera JA, Gilmore EJ, Johnson EL, Olson D, Rayi A, Tesoro E, Ullman J, Yuan Y, Zafar SF, Rowe S. Guidelines for Seizure Prophylaxis in Adults Hospitalized with Moderate-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Clinical Practice Guideline for Health Care Professionals from the Neurocritical Care Society. Neurocrit Care 2024:10.1007/s12028-023-01907-x. [PMID: 38316735 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01907-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is practice heterogeneity in the use, type, and duration of prophylactic antiseizure medications (ASMs) in patients with moderate-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of articles assessing ASM prophylaxis in adults with moderate-severe TBI (acute radiographic findings and requiring hospitalization). The population, intervention, comparator, and outcome (PICO) questions were as follows: (1) Should ASM versus no ASM be used in patients with moderate-severe TBI and no history of clinical or electrographic seizures? (2) If an ASM is used, should levetiracetam (LEV) or phenytoin/fosphenytoin (PHT/fPHT) be preferentially used? (3) If an ASM is used, should a long versus short (> 7 vs. ≤ 7 days) duration of prophylaxis be used? The main outcomes were early seizure, late seizure, adverse events, mortality, and functional outcomes. We used Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology to generate recommendations. RESULTS The initial literature search yielded 1998 articles, of which 33 formed the basis of the recommendations: PICO 1: We did not detect any significant positive or negative effect of ASM compared to no ASM on the outcomes of early seizure, late seizure, adverse events, or mortality. PICO 2: We did not detect any significant positive or negative effect of PHT/fPHT compared to LEV for early seizures or mortality, though point estimates suggest fewer late seizures and fewer adverse events with LEV. PICO 3: There were no significant differences in early or late seizures with longer versus shorter ASM use, though cognitive outcomes and adverse events appear worse with protracted use. CONCLUSIONS Based on GRADE criteria, we suggest that ASM or no ASM may be used in patients hospitalized with moderate-severe TBI (weak recommendation, low quality of evidence). If used, we suggest LEV over PHT/fPHT (weak recommendation, very low quality of evidence) for a short duration (≤ 7 days, weak recommendation, low quality of evidence).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Frontera
- Department of Neurology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Neurology, NYU, 150 55th St., Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Emily J Gilmore
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Emily L Johnson
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - DaiWai Olson
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Appaji Rayi
- Department of Neurology, Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, WV, USA
| | - Eljim Tesoro
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jamie Ullman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwell Health, Great Neck, NY, USA
| | - Yuhong Yuan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sahar F Zafar
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shaun Rowe
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Knoxville, TN, USA
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Bahey AAA, Chughtai T, El-Menyar A, Verma V, Strandvik G, Asim M, Consunji R, Younis B, Parchani A, Rizoli S, Al-Thani H. Seizure Prophylaxis in Young Patients Following Traumatic Brain Injury. J Emerg Trauma Shock 2024; 17:25-32. [PMID: 38681877 PMCID: PMC11044991 DOI: 10.4103/jets.jets_93_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Phenytoin is one of the commonly used anti.seizure medications in nontraumatic seizures. However, its utility and safety in young patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) for the prevention of early-onset seizures (EOS) are debatable. We sought to explore the use of phenytoin as a seizure prophylaxis following TBI. We hypothesized that administering phenytoin is not effective in preventing EOS after TBI. Methods This was a retrospective observational study conducted on adult TBI patients. EOS was defined as a witnessed seizure within a week postinjury. Data were compared as phenytoin versus no-phenytoin use, EOS versus no-EOS, and among TBI severity groups. Results During 1 year, 639 TBI patients were included with a mean age of 32 years; of them, 183 received phenytoin as seizure prophylaxis, and 453 received no prophylaxis medication. EOS was documented in 13 (2.0%) patients who received phenytoin, and none had EOS among the nonphenytoin group. The phenytoin group was more likely to have a higher Marshall Score (P = 0.001), lower Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (P = 0.001), EOS (P = 0.001), and higher mortality (P = 0.001). Phenytoin was administrated for 15.2%, 43.2%, and 64.5% of mild, moderate, and severe TBI patients, respectively. EOS and no-EOS groups were comparable for age, gender, mechanism of injury, GCS, Marshall Score, serum phenytoin levels, liver function levels, hospital stay, and mortality. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that low serum albumin (odds ratio [OR] 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.676.0.962) and toxic phenytoin level (OR 43; 95% CI 2.420.780.7) were independent predictors of EOS. Conclusions In this study, the prophylactic use of phenytoin in TBI was ineffective in preventing EOS. Large-scale matched studies and well-defined hospital protocols are needed for the proper utility of phenytoin post-TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Abdel-Aziz Bahey
- Department of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Talat Chughtai
- Department of Surgery, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ayman El-Menyar
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Research, Trauma and Vascular Surgery, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
- Clinical Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Vishwajit Verma
- Department of Surgery, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Gustav Strandvik
- Department of Surgery, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammad Asim
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Research, Trauma and Vascular Surgery, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rafael Consunji
- Department of Surgery, Injury Prevention, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Basil Younis
- Department of Surgery, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ashok Parchani
- Department of Surgery, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sandro Rizoli
- Department of Surgery, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hassan Al-Thani
- Department of Surgery, Trauma Surgery Section, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
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Huang YC, Wong YS, Wu CS, Tsai CF, Ong CT. Modified CAVE score for predicting late seizures after intracerebral hemorrhage. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:448. [PMID: 38114955 PMCID: PMC10729474 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03510-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Seizures commonly occur in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Anticonvulsants are commonly used for preventing seizures in patients with ICH. Thus, patients with ICH at high risk of seizures must be identified. The study aims to elucidate whether double the score of cortex involvement in ICH patients can increase accuracy of CAVE score for predicting late seizures. METHOD This retrospective analysis of the medical records of surviving patients admitted between June 1, 2013, and December 31, 2019. Validated the CAVE score and modified it (CAVE2). The main outcome of patients with ICH was seizures. The first seizures occurring within 7 days after a stroke were defined as early seizures. Seizures occurring after 1 week of stroke onset, including patients who had experienced early seizures or patients who had not, were defined as late seizures. CAVE and CAVE2 scores were validated using the cohort. The accuracy and discrimination of those two scores were accessed by the area under the operating characteristic curve. Akaike information criterion, integrated discrimination improvement, and continuous net reclassification improvement were used to assess the performance of the CAVE and CAVE2 scores. RESULTS In the cohort showed that late seizures occurred in 12.7% (52/408) of patients with ICH. Male sex, age > 65 years, cortex involvement, and early seizures were associated with the occurrence of late seizures, with odds ratios of 2.09, 2.04, 4.12, and 3.78, respectively. The risk rate of late seizures was 6.66% (17/255), 14.8% (17/115), and 47.4% (18/38) for CAVE scores ≤ 1, 2, and ≥ 3, and 4.6% (12/258), 18.3% (13/71), and 54.4 (20/37) for CAVE2 scores ≤ 1, 2, and ≥ 3 respectively. The C-statistics for the CAVE and CAVE2 scores were 0.73 and 0.74 respectively. CONCLUSION The CAVE score can identify patients with ICH and high risk for late seizures. The CAVE can be modified by changing the score of cortex involvement to 2 points to improve accuracy in predicting late seizures in patients with ICH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ching Huang
- Department of Neurology, Tao-yuan General Hospital, Ministry of Healthy and Welfare, Tao-yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Yuan-Ze University, Tao-yuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Sin Wong
- Department of Family Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chiayi Christian Hospital, Chiayi City, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Shun Wu
- Department of Neurology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, 539 Chung-Shao Road, Chia-Yi, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Fang Tsai
- Department of Medical Research, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chiayi Christian Hospital, Chiayi City, Taiwan
| | - Cheung-Ter Ong
- Department of Neurology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, 539 Chung-Shao Road, Chia-Yi, Taiwan.
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6
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Atwood R, Walker P, Walper D, Elster E, Bradley M. Use of Levetiracetam for Post-Traumatic Seizure Prophylaxis in Combat-Related Traumatic Brain Injury. Mil Med 2023; 188:e3570-e3574. [PMID: 37256778 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Post-traumatic seizure (PTS) prophylaxis is recommended in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) at high risk for PTSs, but consensus on the optimal pharmacologic therapy has not yet been established. Levetiracetam is frequently used for seizure prophylaxis in combat-related TBI, but its efficacy and safety in this patient population has not yet been described. METHODS A retrospective cohort of 687 consecutive casualties transferred to the CONUS from October 2010 to December 2015 was analyzed. Seventy-one patients with combat-related injuries and radiographic evidence of skull fractures or intracranial hemorrhage were included. Data collection included demographics and injury characteristics including initial Glasgow Coma Scale, computed tomography findings, interventions, and 6-month Glasgow Outcome Score. RESULTS All patients in this cohort were male, with an average age of 25 (median 24; Interquartile range (IQR) 4.5) and an average Injury Severity Score of 28 (median 27; IQR 15). The most common mechanism of injury was explosive blast (76%). Penetrating TBI was common (51%). Most patients (88.7%) were administered seizure prophylaxis. Of these, the majority (61/63) received levetiracetam, and the additional two were administered phenytoin. The remaining 11.3% of patients were deemed not to require seizure prophylaxis. The incidence of seizures while on prophylaxis was low (2.8%) and occurred in patients who suffered transcranial gunshot wounds and ultimately died. No serious adverse effects were attributed to levetiracetam. CONCLUSIONS Levetiracetam appears to be a safe and effective medication for PTS prophylaxis in combat casualties. The rate of PTSs in combat-related TBI on appropriate prophylaxis is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rex Atwood
- Department of Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Patrick Walker
- Department of Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Daniel Walper
- Department of Psychiatry, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA 23708, USA
| | - Eric Elster
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Matthew Bradley
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Almohaish S, Cook AM, Brophy GM, Rhoney DH. Personalized antiseizure medication therapy in critically ill adult patients. Pharmacotherapy 2023; 43:1166-1181. [PMID: 36999346 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Precision medicine has the potential to have a significant impact on both drug development and patient care. It is crucial to not only provide prompt effective antiseizure treatment for critically ill patients after seizures start but also have a proactive mindset and concentrate on epileptogenesis and the underlying cause of the seizures or seizure disorders. Critical illness presents different treatment issues compared with the ambulatory population, which makes it challenging to choose the best antiseizure medications and to administer them at the right time and at the right dose. Since there is a paucity of information available on antiseizure medication dosing in critically ill patients, therapeutic drug monitoring is a useful tool for defining each patient's personal therapeutic range and assisting clinicians in decision-making. Use of pharmacogenomic information relating to pharmacokinetics, hepatic metabolism, and seizure etiology may improve safety and efficacy by individualizing therapy. Studies evaluating the clinical implementation of pharmacogenomic information at the point-of-care and identification of biomarkers are also needed. These studies may make it possible to avoid adverse drug reactions, maximize drug efficacy, reduce drug-drug interactions, and optimize medications for each individual patient. This review will discuss the available literature and provide future insights on precision medicine use with antiseizure therapy in critically ill adult patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulaiman Almohaish
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Clinical Pharmacy College, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aaron M Cook
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Gretchen M Brophy
- Department of Pharmacotherapy & Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Denise H Rhoney
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Nicole Gilliam D, Sarangarm P, Elwood K. A Retrospective Case Series on Valproic Acid for Early Post-Traumatic Seizure Prophylaxis After Traumatic Brain Injury in Patients With Concomitant Agitation. Hosp Pharm 2023; 58:496-503. [PMID: 37711412 PMCID: PMC10498971 DOI: 10.1177/00185787231160435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Early post-traumatic seizures occur within 7 days following a traumatic brain injury and may lead to additional brain damage and poor outcomes. Levetiracetam or phenytoin is often used for seizure prophylaxis in this patient population, but valproic acid may be an appropriate therapeutic alternative in patients with concomitant agitation. Evidence for the use of valproic acid for both early post-traumatic seizure prophylaxis and agitation is limited. The purpose of this study is to examine the safety and efficacy of valproic acid for both early post-traumatic seizure prophylaxis and agitation. Methods: This single-center, retrospective case series includes 18 patients who received valproic acid for both early post-traumatic seizure prophylaxis and agitation. Efficacy for early post-traumatic seizure prophylaxis is assessed by the incidence of seizures within 7 days of injury. Efficacy for agitation is assessed by changes in Riker Sedation-Agitation Scale scores during valproic acid therapy. The safety of valproic acid is defined by the incidence of selected adverse events. Results: Among 18 patients with traumatic brain injuries receiving valproic acid for both early post-traumatic seizures and agitation, one patient experienced a seizure during the period of prophylaxis and thrombocytopenia was the most common adverse event. Conclusion: In this small cohort of patients, valproic acid appears be a potential option to prevent early post-traumatic seizures in patients with traumatic brain injuries and concomitant agitation with minimal adverse effects. Randomized, controlled studies are needed to further investigate the role of valproic acid for this indication, including standards for dosing regimens, serum drug monitoring, and the relationship between valproic acid treatment and mortality.
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Harlan SS, Philpott CD, Keegan SP, Droege ME, Karve AS, Foreman B, Wakefield D, Mueller EW, Sangha K, Ngwenya LB, Courter JD, Desai P, Droege C. Pharmacokinetics of Levetiracetam Seizure Prophylaxis in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury. Ann Pharmacother 2023:10600280231202246. [PMID: 37776163 DOI: 10.1177/10600280231202246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug pharmacokinetics (PK) are altered in neurocritically ill patients, and optimal levetiracetam dosing for seizure prophylaxis is unknown. OBJECTIVE This study evaluates levetiracetam PK in critically ill patients with severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) receiving intravenous levetiracetam 1000 mg every 8 (LEV8) to 12 (LEV12) hours for seizure prophylaxis. METHODS This prospective, open-label study was conducted at a level 1 trauma, academic, quaternary care center. Patients with sTBI receiving seizure prophylaxis with LEV8 or LEV12 were eligible for enrollment. Five sequential, steady-state, postdose serum levetiracetam concentrations were obtained. Non-compartmental analysis (NCA) and compartmental approaches were employed for estimating pharmacokinetic parameters and projecting steady-state trough concentrations. Pharmacokinetic parameters were compared between LEV8 and LEV12 patients. Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) were performed to determine probability of target trough attainment (PTA) of 6 to 20 mg/L. A secondary analysis evaluated PTA for weight-tiered levetiracetam dosing. RESULTS Ten male patients (5 LEV8; 5 LEV12) were included. The NCA-based systemic clearance and elimination half-life were 5.3 ± 1.2 L/h and 4.8 ± 0.64 hours. A one-compartment model provided a higher steady-state trough concentration for the LEV8 group compared with the LEV12 group (13.7 ± 4.3 mg/L vs 6.3 ± 1.7 mg/L; P = 0.008). Monte Carlo simulations predicted regimens of 500 mg every 6 hours, 1000 mg every 8 hours, and 2000 mg every 12 hours achieved therapeutic target attainment. Weight-tiered dosing regimens achieved therapeutic target attainment using a 75 kg breakpoint. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE Neurocritically ill patients exhibit rapid levetiracetam clearance resulting in a short elimination half-life. Findings of this study suggest regimens of levetiracetam 500 mg every 6 hours, 1000 mg every 8 hours, or 2000 mg every 12 hours may be required for optimal therapeutic target attainment. Patient weight of 75 kg may serve as a breakpoint for weight-guided dosing to optimize levetiracetam therapeutic target attainment for seizure prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schuman Harlan
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Baptist Memorial Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Carolyn D Philpott
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Molly E Droege
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Aniruddha S Karve
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Brandon Foreman
- Division of Neurocritical Care, Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Devin Wakefield
- Division of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Eric W Mueller
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kiranpal Sangha
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Community of Scholars Faculty, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Laura B Ngwenya
- Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joshua D Courter
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Pankaj Desai
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Christopher Droege
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Hedges A, Findlay MC, Davis GE, Wolfe BM, Hawryluk GWJ, Menacho ST, Ansari S. Levetiracetam dosing for seizure prophylaxis in neurocritical care patients. Brain Inj 2023; 37:1167-1172. [PMID: 36856437 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2023.2184495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Levetiracetam is used for seizure prophylaxis in patients presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) or traumatic brain injury (TBI). We aim to characterize the optimal levetiracetam dosage for seizure prophylaxis. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included adult patients at an academic tertiary hospital presenting with SAH or TBI who received levetiracetam at a total daily dose (TDD) equivalent to or greater than 1000 mg. The primary outcome was combined seizure incidence, including clinical and subclinical seizures. RESULTS We identified 139 patients (49.6% male, mean age 53 years) for inclusion. For patients receiving a 1000-mg TDD, the administration was 500 mg twice daily. For patients receiving >1000-mg TDD, 77/78 patients received 1000 mg twice daily and one patient received 750 mg twice daily. Patients receiving 1000-mg TDD had a higher seizure incidence than those receiving >1000-mg TDD (p = 0.01), despite no difference in examined confounders, including history of alcoholism (p = 0.49), benzodiazepine use (p = 0.28), or propofol use (p = 0.17). No difference in adverse effects was observed (anemia, p = 0.44; leukopenia, p = 0.60; thrombocytopenia, p = 0.86). CONCLUSIONS Patients may experience a reduced incidence of clinical and electroencephalographic seizures with levetiracetam dosing >1000-mg TDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Hedges
- Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | | | - Gary E Davis
- Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Brianne M Wolfe
- Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | | | - Sarah T Menacho
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Safdar Ansari
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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11
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Saletti PG, Mowrey WB, Liu W, Li Q, McCullough J, Aniceto R, Lin I, Eklund M, Casillas‐Espinosa PM, Ali I, Santana‐Gomez C, Coles L, Shultz SR, Jones N, Staba R, O'Brien TJ, Moshé SL, Agoston DV, Galanopoulou AS. Early preclinical plasma protein biomarkers of brain trauma are influenced by early seizures and levetiracetam. Epilepsia Open 2023; 8:586-608. [PMID: 37026764 PMCID: PMC10235584 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We used the lateral fluid percussion injury (LFPI) model of moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) to identify early plasma biomarkers predicting injury, early post-traumatic seizures or neuromotor functional recovery (neuroscores), considering the effect of levetiracetam, which is commonly given after severe TBI. METHODS Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent left parietal LFPI, received levetiracetam (200 mg/kg bolus, 200 mg/kg/day subcutaneously for 7 days [7d]) or vehicle post-LFPI, and were continuously video-EEG recorded (n = 14/group). Sham (craniotomy only, n = 6), and naïve controls (n = 10) were also used. Neuroscores and plasma collection were done at 2d or 7d post-LFPI or equivalent timepoints in sham/naïve. Plasma protein biomarker levels were determined by reverse phase protein microarray and classified according to injury severity (LFPI vs. sham/control), levetiracetam treatment, early seizures, and 2d-to-7d neuroscore recovery, using machine learning. RESULTS Low 2d plasma levels of Thr231 -phosphorylated tau protein (pTAU-Thr231 ) and S100B combined (ROC AUC = 0.7790) predicted prior craniotomy surgery (diagnostic biomarker). Levetiracetam-treated LFPI rats were differentiated from vehicle treated by the 2d-HMGB1, 2d-pTAU-Thr231 , and 2d-UCHL1 plasma levels combined (ROC AUC = 0.9394) (pharmacodynamic biomarker). Levetiracetam prevented the seizure effects on two biomarkers that predicted early seizures only among vehicle-treated LFPI rats: pTAU-Thr231 (ROC AUC = 1) and UCHL1 (ROC AUC = 0.8333) (prognostic biomarker of early seizures among vehicle-treated LFPI rats). Levetiracetam-resistant early seizures were predicted by high 2d-IFNγ plasma levels (ROC AUC = 0.8750) (response biomarker). 2d-to-7d neuroscore recovery was best predicted by higher 2d-S100B, lower 2d-HMGB1, and 2d-to-7d increase in HMGB1 or decrease in TNF (P < 0.05) (prognostic biomarkers). SIGNIFICANCE Antiseizure medications and early seizures need to be considered in the interpretation of early post-traumatic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia G. Saletti
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental EpilepsyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Wenzhu B. Mowrey
- Department of Epidemiology & Population HealthAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Wei Liu
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental EpilepsyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Qianyun Li
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental EpilepsyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Jesse McCullough
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and GeneticsUniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Roxanne Aniceto
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and GeneticsUniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - I‐Hsuan Lin
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and GeneticsUniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Michael Eklund
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and GeneticsUniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Pablo M. Casillas‐Espinosa
- Department of NeuroscienceMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Idrish Ali
- Department of NeuroscienceMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Lisa Coles
- University of Minnesota Twin CitiesMinneapolisMinnesotaUSA
| | - Sandy R. Shultz
- Department of NeuroscienceMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Nigel Jones
- Department of NeuroscienceMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Terence J. O'Brien
- Department of NeuroscienceMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Solomon L. Moshé
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental EpilepsyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child NeurologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
- Dominick P Purpura Department of NeuroscienceAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
- Department of PediatricsAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
| | - Denes V. Agoston
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and GeneticsUniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Aristea S. Galanopoulou
- Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental EpilepsyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child NeurologyAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
- Dominick P Purpura Department of NeuroscienceAlbert Einstein College of MedicineBronxNew YorkUSA
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12
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Amin TA, Nerenberg SF, Elsawy OA, Wang A, Johnston JP. Evaluation of levetiracetam for early post-traumatic seizure prophylaxis: A level II trauma center experience. Surgeon 2023; 21:e78-e82. [PMID: 35660071 DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can induce early or late post-traumatic seizures (PTS). While PTS incidence is low, prophylaxis is used despite a lack of consensus on agent or duration. Levetiracetam (LEV) for early PTS prophylaxis is preferred due to its safety and efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate LEV for early PTS prophylaxis. METHODS AND MATERIALS A single-center, retrospective chart review of TBI patients ≥18 years who received LEV for early PTS prophylaxis between August 2018-July 2019. The primary outcome was LEV duration. Secondary outcomes were incidence of seizure, intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay (LOS). RESULTS Of the 137 included, mean age was 59 ± 20 years and 69.3% were male. The mean admission GCS was 13 ± 4 and 77.4% had mild TBI. Median LEV duration was 7 (IQR 4-10) days and 13.9% met recommended 7-day duration. Those prescribed LEV >7 days had more than twice the median LEV duration than those prescribed ≤7 days [10.25 (8.5-15.5) vs 4 (1.5-4.5) days, p < 0.0001]. Electroencephalography-confirmed PTS occurred in 2.2%, with an early PTS incidence of 0.73%. Median ICU and hospital LOS were 2 (IQR 1-7) and 7 (IQR 3-16) days, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of PTS was low as most patients in our study had mild or moderate TBI. Early PTS prophylaxis with LEV for 7 days is appropriate, although the majority of patients did not meet the recommended duration. Efforts to standardize and implement PTS prophylaxis protocols are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy A Amin
- Department of Pharmacy, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, 121 Dekalb Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA.
| | - Steven F Nerenberg
- Department of Pharmacy, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, 703 Main Street, Paterson, NJ, 07503, USA; Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
| | - Osama A Elsawy
- Department of Surgery - Trauma Division, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, 703 Main Street, Paterson, NJ, 07503, USA.
| | - Antai Wang
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA.
| | - Jackie P Johnston
- Department of Pharmacy, St. Joseph's University Medical Center, 703 Main Street, Paterson, NJ, 07503, USA; Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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13
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Oey NE, Tan PT, Pande SD. Young Age, Liver Dysfunction, and Neurostimulant Use as Independent Risk Factors for Post-Traumatic Seizures: A Multiracial Single-Center Experience. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2301. [PMID: 36767668 PMCID: PMC9915627 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to determine the potentially modifiable risk factors that are predictive of post-traumatic brain injury seizures in relation to the severity of initial injury, neurosurgical interventions, neurostimulant use, and comorbidities. This retrospective study was conducted on traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients admitted to a single center from March 2008 to October 2017. We recruited 151 patients from a multiracial background with TBI, of which the data from 141 patients were analyzed, as 10 were excluded due to incomplete follow-up records or a past history of seizures. Of the remaining 141 patients, 33 (24.4%) patients developed seizures during long-term follow up post-TBI. Young age, presence of cerebral contusion, Indian race, low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores on admission, and use of neurostimulant medications were associated with increased risk of seizures. In conclusion, due to increased risk of seizures, younger TBI patients, as well as patients with low GCS on admission, cerebral contusions on brain imaging, and those who received neurostimulants or neurosurgical interventions should be monitored for post-TBI seizures. While it is possible that these findings may be explained by the differing mechanisms of injury in younger vs. older patients, the finding that patients on neurostimulants had an increased risk of seizures will need to be investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pei Ting Tan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore 529889, Singapore
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14
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Hickman ZL, Spielman LA, Barthélemy EJ, Choudhri TF, Engelman B, Giwa AO, Greisman JD, Margetis K, Race M, Rahman J, Todor DR, Tsetsou S, Ullman JS, Unadkat P, Dams-O'Connor K. International Survey of Antiseizure Medication Use in Patients with Complicated Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A New York Neurotrauma Consortium Study. World Neurosurg 2022; 168:e286-e296. [PMID: 36191888 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.09.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seizures and epilepsy after traumatic brain injury (TBI) negatively affect quality of life and longevity. Antiseizure medication (ASM) prophylaxis after severe TBI is associated with improved outcomes; these medications are rarely used in mild TBI. However, a paucity of research is available to inform ASM use in complicated mild TBI (cmTBI) and no empirically based clinical care guidelines for ASM use in cmTBI exist. We aim to identify seizure prevention and management strategies used by clinicians experienced in treating patients with cmTBI to characterize standard care and inform a systematic approach to clinical decision making regarding ASM prophylaxis. METHODS We recruited a multidisciplinary international cohort through professional organizational listservs and social media platforms. Our questionnaire assessed factors influencing ASM prophylaxis after cmTBI at the individual, institutional, and health system-wide levels. RESULTS Ninety-two providers with experience managing cmTBI completed the survey. We found a striking diversity of ASM use in cmTBI, with 30% of respondents reporting no/infrequent use and 42% reporting frequent use; these tendencies did not differ by provider or institutional characteristics. Certain conditions universally increased or decreased the likelihood of ASM use and represent consensus. Based on survey results, ASMs are commonly used in patients with cmTBI who experience acute secondary seizure or select positive neuroimaging findings; we advise caution in elderly patients and those with concomitant neuropsychiatric illness. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to characterize factors influencing clinical decision making in ASM prophylaxis after cmTBI based on multidisciplinary multicenter provider practices. Prospective controlled studies are necessary to inform standardized guideline development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L Hickman
- Department of Neurosurgery, NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York New York Neurotrauma Consortium (NYNC), LLC, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lisa A Spielman
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ernest J Barthélemy
- Division of Neurosurgery, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Tanvir F Choudhri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Brittany Engelman
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Al O Giwa
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jacob D Greisman
- New York Medical College School of Medicine, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Konstantinos Margetis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Meaghan Race
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, Michigan, USA
| | - Jueria Rahman
- Department of Neurosurgery, NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - D Roxanne Todor
- Department of Neurosurgery, NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Spyridoula Tsetsou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jamie S Ullman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Prashin Unadkat
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Kristen Dams-O'Connor
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York New York Neurotrauma Consortium (NYNC), LLC, New York, New York, USA. kristen.dams-o'
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15
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Raikot SR, Polites SF. Current management of pediatric traumatic brain injury. Semin Pediatr Surg 2022; 31:151215. [PMID: 36399949 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2022.151215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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16
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Ohman K, Kram B, Schultheis J, Sigmon J, Kaleem S, Yang Z, Lee HJ, Vatsaas C, Komisarow J. Evaluation of Levetiracetam Dosing Strategies for Seizure Prophylaxis Following Traumatic Brain Injury. Neurocrit Care 2022; 38:345-355. [PMID: 36167949 PMCID: PMC10040473 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-022-01599-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although levetiracetam has been increasingly used as an alternative to phenytoin for early posttraumatic seizure prophylaxis following traumatic brain injury (TBI), an optimal dosing strategy has not been elucidated. The objective of this study is to determine whether different dosing strategies of levetiracetam are associated with the incidence of early posttraumatic seizures when used as prophylaxis following TBI. METHODS This retrospective single-center cohort study included admitted patients ≥ 18 years of age with a diagnosis of TBI and receiving levetiracetam for early posttraumatic seizure prophylaxis between July 1, 2013, and September 1, 2019. The primary outcome of this study was to evaluate three different dosing strategies of levetiracetam (≤ 1000 mg/day, 1500 mg/day, and ≥ 2000 mg/day) and associated rates of early posttraumatic seizures. Secondary outcomes were to summarize absolute total daily maintenance doses of levetiracetam among patients who experienced early posttraumatic seizures compared with those who did not, to determine the impact of three different dosing strategies on hospital length of stay and in-hospital mortality, and to assess patient-specific variables on the occurrence of posttraumatic seizures. Overlap propensity score weighting was used to address the potential for confounding. RESULTS Of the 1287 patients who received levetiracetam for early posttraumatic seizure prophylaxis during the study time frame, 866 patients met eligibility criteria and were included in the study cohort (289 patients in the ≤ 1000 mg/day group, 137 patients in the 1500 mg/day group, and 440 patients in the ≥ 2000 mg/day group). After weighting, the cumulative incidence of early posttraumatic seizure was 2.9% in the ≤ 1000 mg/day group, 8.8% in the 1500 mg/day group, and 9% in the ≥ 2000 mg/day group. The 1500 mg/day and ≥ 2000 mg/day levetiracetam groups had a 209% and 216% increase in the subdistribution hazard of early posttraumatic seizures compared with the ≤ 1000 mg/day levetiracetam group, respectively, but these differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate no statistically significant difference in the cumulative incidence of early posttraumatic seizures within 7 days of TBI between three different levetiracetam dosing strategies. After weighting, the ≤ 1000 mg/day levetiracetam group had the lowest rates of early posttraumatic seizures, death without seizure, and in-hospital mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Ohman
- Department of Pharmacy, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Bridgette Kram
- Department of Pharmacy, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Jana Sigmon
- Department of Pharmacy, Harris Health System, Harris County, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Safa Kaleem
- Department of Neurology, NewYork-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zidanyue Yang
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Hui-Jie Lee
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Cory Vatsaas
- Department of Trauma and Critical Care Surgery, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jordan Komisarow
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Hospital, Durham, NC, USA
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Huo X, Xu X, Li M, Xiao L, Wang Y, Li W, Wang C, Sun T. Effectiveness of antiseizure medications therapy in preventing seizures in brain injury patients: A network meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1001363. [PMID: 36188582 PMCID: PMC9521202 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1001363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To explore the effectiveness of different anti-seizure medications in preventing early and late post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE). The efficacy, treatment-related side-effects, and mortality of the different treatments were compared using a ranking model to identify the optimal treatment. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using Pubmed, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library databases. All relevant published articles up to 10 March 2022 were evaluated. The quality of the extracted data was assessed using either the Cochrane risk of bias tool or the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. The primary outcome measures were early or late post-traumatic seizures. The secondary outcome measures were mortality, treatment-related adverse effects, length of hospital stay, and length of stay within the intensive care unit (ICU). Results: A total of seven randomized controlled trials and 18 non-randomized controlled trials were included in this network meta-analysis. The trials included six interventions: Phenytoin (PHT)+phenobarbital (PB), levetiracetam (LEV), PHT, PHT-LEV, lacosamide (LCM), and valproate (VPA). All interventions except VPA significantly reduced the rate of early PTE in TBI patients compared with the placebo. Seven studies reported the impact of four treatments (PHT + PB, LEV, PHT, VPA) on late seizures and showed a significant reduction in the incidence of late seizures in patients with TBI compared with placebo. The impact of PHT, LEV, and VPA on mortality was reported in nine studies. PHT had no impact on mortality, but patients treated with both LEV and VPA had higher mortality than those treated with placebo. The treatment-related adverse effects of LEV, PHT, and LCM were reported in five studies. LEV and PHT had higher treatment-related adverse effects incidence than placebo, while LCM had no effect on treatment related-adverse effects. Conclusion: LEV and PHT prevented early and late PTE. PHT also reduced the mortality rate in patients with TBI. Both LEV and PHT had higher treatment-related adverse effects compared with placebo. However, LEV had a slightly lower incidence of treatment-related adverse effects when compared with PHT. Compared with PHT, LEV did not reduce the length of hospital stay but shortened the length of ICU stays. Therefore, based on the findings of this meta-analysis, we speculate that LEV is the best treatment option for TBI patients. However, further high-quality randomized controlled trials are required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianhao Huo
- Neurosurgery Department, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xingguo Xu
- Neurosurgery Department, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Mei Li
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Lifei Xiao
- Neurosurgery Department, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yangyang Wang
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Neurosurgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, China
| | - Wenchao Li
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Neurosurgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, China
| | - Chaofan Wang
- Neurosurgery Department, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Neurosurgery Department, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- *Correspondence: Tao Sun,
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D'Onofrio G, Riva A, Amadori E, Lattanzi S, Rose K, Verrotti A, Striano P. Pharmacokinetic considerations surrounding the use of levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis in neurocritical care - an overview. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2022; 18:575-585. [PMID: 36006892 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2022.2117606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Levetiracetam (LEV) is one of the most widely used anti-seizure medications (ASMs) in clinical practice. This is due both to a different mechanism of action when compared to other ASMs and its easy handling. Indeed, because of its interesting pharmacokinetic properties, it is often used outside of the labelled indications, notably in the neurocritical setting as prophylaxis of epileptic seizures. AREAS COVERED A literature search was conducted and the most relevant studies on the pharmacokinetic properties of LEV were selected by two independent investigators. Current evidence on the use of ASM prophylaxis in the neurocritical setting was also reviewed, highlighting and discussing the strengths and limits of LEV as drug of choice for anti-epileptic prophylaxis in this scenario. EXPERT OPINION LEV has a "near-ideal" pharmacokinetic profile, which makes it an attractive drug for ASM prophylaxis in neurocritical care. However, current recommendations restrict ASMs prophylaxis to very selected circumstances and the role of LEV is marginal. Moreover, studies are generally designed to compare LEV versus phenytoin, whereas studies comparing LEV versus placebo are lacking. Further randomized trials will be needed to better elucidate LEV utility and its neuroprotective role in the neurocritical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca D'Onofrio
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Amadori
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Neurological Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Conca 71, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Klaus Rose
- klausrose Consulting, Riehen, Switzerland
| | - Alberto Verrotti
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06156 Perugia, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
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Lee K, Klein P, Dongre P, Choi EJ, Rhoney DH. Intravenous Brivaracetam in the Management of Acute Seizures in the Hospital Setting: A Scoping Review. J Intensive Care Med 2022; 37:1133-1145. [PMID: 35306914 PMCID: PMC9393655 DOI: 10.1177/08850666211073598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Clinical considerations for drug treatment of acute seizures involve
variables such as safety, tolerability, drug-drug interactions, dosage,
route of administration, and alterations in pharmacokinetics because of
critical illness. Therapy options that are easily and quickly administered
without dilution, well tolerated, and effective are needed for the treatment
of acute seizures. The objective of this review is to focus on the clinical
considerations relating to the use of intravenous brivaracetam (IV BRV) for
the treatment of acute seizures in the hospital, focusing on critically ill
patients. Methods This was a scoping literature review of PubMed from inception to April 13,
2021, and search of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) 2021 Annual
Meeting website for English language publications/conference abstracts
reporting the results of IV BRV use in hospitalized patients, particularly
in the critical care setting. Outcomes of interest relating to the clinical
pharmacology, safety, tolerability, efficacy, and effectiveness of IV BRV
were reviewed and are discussed. Results Twelve studies were included for analysis. One study showed that plasma
concentrations of IV BRV 15 min after the first dose were similar between
patients receiving IV BRV as bolus or infusion. IV BRV was generally well
tolerated in patients with acute seizures in the hospital setting, with a
low incidence of individual TEAEs classified as behavioral disorders. IV BRV
demonstrated efficacy and effectiveness and had a rapid onset, with clinical
and electrophysiological improvement in seizures observed within minutes.
Although outside of the approved label, findings from several studies
suggest that IV BRV reduces seizures and is generally well tolerated in
patients with status epilepticus. Conclusions IV BRV shows effectiveness, and is generally well tolerated in the management
of acute seizures in hospitalized patients where rapid administration is
needed, representing a clinically relevant antiseizure medication for
potential use in the critical care setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiwon Lee
- Department of Neurology, Division of Stroke and Critical Care, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 12287Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Pavel Klein
- Mid-Atlantic Epilepsy and Sleep Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Denise H Rhoney
- 15521UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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McGinn RJ, Aljoghaiman MS, Sharma SV. Levetiracetam vs phenytoin prophylaxis in severe traumatic brain injury: Systematic review and meta-analysis. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2021.101394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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21
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Surtees TL, Kumar I, Garton HJL, Rivas-Rodriguez F, Parmar H, McCaffery H, Riebe-Rodgers J, Shellhaas RA. Levetiracetam Prophylaxis for Children Admitted With Traumatic Brain Injury. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 126:114-119. [PMID: 34839268 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prophylactic antiseizure medications (ASMs) for pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) are understudied. We evaluated clinical and radiographic features that inform prescription of ASMs for pediatric TBI. We hypothesized that despite a lack of evidence, levetiracetam is the preferred prophylactic ASM but that prophylaxis is inconsistently prescribed. METHODS This retrospective study assessed children admitted with TBI from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019. TBI severity was defined using Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores. Two independent neuroradiologists reviewed initial head computed tomography and brain magnetic resonance imaging. Fisher exact tests and descriptive and regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS Among 167 children with TBI, 44 (26%) received ASM prophylaxis. All 44 (100%) received levetiracetam. Prophylaxis was more commonly prescribed for younger children, those with neurosurgical intervention, and abnormal neuroimaging (particularly intraparenchymal hematoma) (odds ratio = 10.3, confidence interval 1.8 to 58.9), or GCS ≤12. Six children (13.6%), all on ASM, developed early posttraumatic seizures (EPTSs). Of children with GCS ≤12, four of 17 (23.5%) on levetiracetam prophylaxis developed EPTSs, higher than the reported rate for phenytoin. CONCLUSIONS Although some studies suggest it may be inferior to phenytoin, levetiracetam was exclusively used for EPTS prophylaxis. Intraparenchymal hematoma >1 cm was the single neuroimaging feature associated with ASM prophylaxis regardless of the GCS score. Yet these trends are not equivalent to optimal evidence-based management. We still observed important variability in neuroimaging characteristics and TBI severity for children on prophylaxis. Thus, further study of ASM prophylaxis and prevention of pediatric EPTSs is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taryn-Leigh Surtees
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
| | - Ishani Kumar
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | | | - Hemant Parmar
- Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Harlan McCaffery
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Renée A Shellhaas
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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22
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Tran QK, Bzhilyanskaya V, Lurie T, Fairchild M, Rehan MA, Rashid A, Powell E, Pourmand A. Phenytoin prophylaxis and functional outcomes following spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol Sci 2021; 429:117624. [PMID: 34488044 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.117624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Seizure activity following spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) can worsen patients' comorbidity. However, data regarding whether seizure prophylaxis for sICH is associated with patients' poor functional outcome is inconclusive. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the relationship between phenytoin prophylaxis and poor functional outcome after sICH. METHODS We conducted our search on PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases as of October 30, 2020 for studies that included information on seizure prophylaxis and functional outcome in patients with sICH. Primary outcome was poor functional outcome at the longest follow-up in patients receiving seizure prophylaxis. The secondary outcome was poor functional outcome at 90 days follow-up. We conducted random effects meta-analysis and moderator analyses to detect sources of heterogeneity for our outcomes. RESULTS We included eleven studies in the final analysis with a total of 4268 patients. A moderator analysis further showed prospective studies had lower heterogeneity. We did not find an association between seizure prophylaxis and poor functional outcome at time of longest follow-up (OR 1.2, 95%CI 0.9-1.6, p-value = 0.22, I2 = 61%), nor at 90-day follow-up (OR 1.4, 95%CI 0.8-2.4, p-value = 0.24, I2 = 78%). CONCLUSION Seizure prophylaxis following sICH was not associated with worse functional outcomes at longest follow-up or at 90 days. Neither levetiracetam nor phenytoin was associated with outcome in our exploratory meta-regression, though there is a trend towards better outcomes in populations where there was a higher percentage of patients who received levetiracetam. More randomized trials are needed to confirm this observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quincy K Tran
- Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; The R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Vera Bzhilyanskaya
- Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Tucker Lurie
- Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Matthew Fairchild
- Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Mehboob A Rehan
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester MA USA.
| | - Asma Rashid
- Department of Medicine, Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, Idaho Falls, ID, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Powell
- Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Ali Pourmand
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
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Levetiracetam for Seizure Prophylaxis in Neurocritical Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Neurocrit Care 2021; 36:248-258. [PMID: 34286461 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-021-01296-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam is commonly used for seizure prophylaxis in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), traumatic brain injury (TBI), supratentorial neurosurgery, and spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). However, its efficacy, optimal dosing, and the adverse events associated with levetiracetam prophylaxis remain unclear. METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane central register of controlled trials (CENTRAL) database was conducted from January 1, 2000, to October 30, 2020, including articles addressing treatment with levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis after SAH, ICH, TBI, and supratentorial neurosurgery. Non-English, pediatric (aged < 18 years), preclinical, reviews, case reports, and articles that included patients with a preexisting seizure condition or epilepsy were excluded. The coprimary meta-analyses examined first seizure events in (1) levetiracetam versus no antiseizure medication and (2) levetiracetam versus other antiseizure medications in all ICH, TBI, SAH, and supratentorial neurosurgery populations. Secondary meta-analyses evaluated the same comparator groups in individual disease populations. Risk of bias in non-randomised studies - of interventions (ROBINS-I) and risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB-2) tools were used to assess risk of bias. RESULTS A total of 30 studies (n = 6 randomized trials, n = 9 prospective studies, and n = 15 retrospective studies), including 7609 patients (n = 4737 with TBI, n = 701 with SAH, n = 261 with ICH, and n = 1910 with neurosurgical diseases) were included in analyses. Twenty-seven of 30 (90%) studies demonstrated moderate to severe risk of bias, and 11 of 30 (37%) studies used low-dosage levetiracetam (250-500 mg twice daily). In the primary meta-analyses, there were no differences in seizure events for levetiracetam prophylaxis (n = 906) versus no antiseizure medication (n = 2728; odds ratio [OR] 0.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.53-1.16, P = 0.23, fixed-effect, I2 = 26%, P = 0.23 for heterogeneity) or levetiracetam (n = 1950) versus other antiseizure prophylaxis (n = 2289; OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.55-1.28, P = 0.41, random-effects, I2 = 49%, P = 0.005 for heterogeneity). Only patients with supratentorial neurosurgical diseases benefited from levetiracetam compared with other antiseizure medications (median 0.70 seizure events per-patient-year with levetiracetam versus 2.20 seizure events per-patient-year for other antiseizure medications, OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.20-0.58, P < 0.001, fixed-effects, I2 = 39%, P = 0.13 for heterogeneity). There were no significant differences in meta-analyses of patients with ICH, SAH, or TBI. Adverse events of any severity were reported in a median of 8% of patients given levetiracetam compared with 21% of patients in comparator groups. CONCLUSIONS Based on the current moderately to seriously biased heterogeneous data, which frequently used low and possibly subtherapeutic doses of levetiracetam, our meta-analyses did not demonstrate significant reductions in seizure incidence and neither supports nor refutes the use of levetiracetam prophylaxis in TBI, SAH, or ICH. Levetiracetam may be preferred post supratentorial neurosurgery. More high-quality randomized trials of prophylactic levetiracetam are warranted.
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Ong CLJ, Goh PSJ, Teo MM, Lim TP, Goh KKK, Ang XY, Lim LJK, Jamaludin NHB, Ang BT, Kwa LHA. Pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam in neurosurgical ICU patients. J Crit Care 2021; 64:255-261. [PMID: 34051579 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The pharmacokinetics (PK) of drugs is dramatically altered in critical illness. Augmented renal clearance (ARC), a phenomenon characterized by creatinine clearance (CrCl) greater than 130 ml/min/1.73m2, is commonly described in critically ill patients. Levetiracetam, an antiepileptic drug commonly prescribed for seizure prophylaxis in the neurosurgical ICU, undergoes predominant elimination via the kidneys. Hence, we hypothesize that current dosing practice of intravenous (IV) levetiracetam 500 mg twice daily is inadequate for critically ill patients due to enhanced drug elimination. The objectives of our study were to describe the population PK of levetiractam using a nonparametric approach to design an optimal dosing regimen for critically ill neurosurgical patients. METHODS This was a prospective, observational, population PK study. Serial blood samples were obtained from neurosurgical ICU patients who received at least one dose of IV levetiracetam. We used uHPLC to analyze these samples and Pmetrics™ software to perform PK analysis. RESULTS Twenty subjects were included, with a median age of 54 years and CrCl of 104 ml/min. A two-compartmental model with linear elimination adequately described the profile of levetiracetam. Mean clearance (CL) was 3.55 L/h and volume of distribution (V) was 18.8 L. No covariates were included in the final model. Monte Carlo simulations showed a low probability of target attainment (PTA, trough at steady state of ≥6 mg/L) with a standard dose of 500 mg twice daily. A dose of at least 1000 mg twice daily was required to achieve 80% PTA. Two subjects, both with subtherapeutic trough levels, developed early onset seizures. CONCLUSION Our study examined the population PK of levetiracetam in a critically ill neurosurgical population. We found that this population displayed higher clearance and required higher doses to achieve target levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pheck Suan June Goh
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Miqi Mavis Teo
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tze Peng Lim
- Department of Pharmacy, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Xiu Yun Ang
- Department of Pharmacy, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - Beng Ti Ang
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore; Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore, Singapore; Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lay Hoon Andrea Kwa
- Department of Pharmacy, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore; Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Singhealth Duke-NUS Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, Singapore, Singapore
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Wong YS, Wu CS, Ong CT. Discontinuation of preventive antiepileptic drugs in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. BMC Neurol 2021; 21:150. [PMID: 33827479 PMCID: PMC8025523 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-021-02177-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The risk factors for seizures in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) stroke and the effect of seizure prevention by anticonvulsant are not well understood. Limited studies have investigated the risk of seizure after discontinuing antiepileptic drugs in patients with ICH. This study aimed to investigate the role of valproic acid (VA) for seizure prevention and to access the risk of seizure after anticonvulsant withdrawal in patients with spontaneous ICH. Methods Between 2013 and 2015, 177 patients with ICH were enrolled in this 3-year retrospective study. Seizures were classified as early seizure (first seizure within 1 week of ICH), delayed seizure (first seizure after 1 week), and late seizure (any seizure after 1 week). Binary logistic regression was used to evaluate the relationship between baseline clinical factors and late seizures between study periods. VA was prescribed or discontinued based on the decision of the physician in charge. Results Seizures occurred in 24 patients, including early seizure in 6.78% (12/177) of the patients, delayed seizure in 7.27% (12/165) of the patients without early seizure, and late seizure in 9.60% (17/177) of the patients. Most seizures occurred within the first year. Binary logistic regression analysis showed ICH with cortex involvement as the independent risk factor for seizures. VA did not decrease the risk of seizures. Patients with ICH with cortical involvement using anticonvulsants for longer than 3 months did not have a decreased risk of seizures (odds ratio 1.86, 95% CI: 0.43–8.05). Conclusions Spontaneous ICH with cortex involvement is the risk factor for seizure. Most seizures occurred within 1 year after stroke onset over a 3-year follow up. Discontinuation of antiepileptic drug within 3 months in patients does not increase the risk of seizure. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-021-02177-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Sin Wong
- Department of Family Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chia-Yi, Taiwan.,Department of Nursing, Min-Hwei Junior College of Health Care Management, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Shun Wu
- Department of Neurology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, 539 Chung-Shao Road, Chia-Yi, Taiwan
| | - Cheung-Ter Ong
- Department of Neurology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, 539 Chung-Shao Road, Chia-Yi, Taiwan.
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Yang L, Afroz S, Valsamis HA, Michelson HB, Goodman JH, Ling DSF. Early intervention with levetiracetam prevents the development of cortical hyperexcitability and spontaneous epileptiform activity in two models of neurotrauma in rats. Exp Neurol 2020; 337:113571. [PMID: 33340499 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the antiepileptogenic potential of the antiseizure drug (ASD) levetiracetam (LEV) using the in vitro traumatized-slice and in vivo controlled cortical impact (CCI) models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rats when administered early after the injury. For the in vitro model, acute coronal slices (400-450 μm) of rat neocortex (P21-32) were injured via a surgical cut that separated the superficial layers from the deeper regions. Persistent stimulus-evoked epileptiform activity developed within 1-2 h after trauma. In randomly selected slices, LEV (500 μM) was bath-applied for 1 h starting immediately or delayed by 30-80 min after injury. Treated and untreated slices were examined for epileptiform activity via intracellular and extracellular recordings. For the in vivo model, rats (P24-32) were subjected to a non-penetrating, focal, CCI injury targeting the neocortex (5.0 mm diameter; 2.0 mm depth). Immediately after injury, rats were given either a single dose of LEV (60-150 mg/kg, i.p.) or the saline vehicle. At 2-3 weeks after the injury, ex vivo cortical slices were examined for epileptiform activity. The results from the traumatized-slice experiments showed that in vitro treatment with LEV within 60 min of injury significantly reduced (> 50%) the proportion of slices that exhibited stimulus-evoked epileptiform activity. LEV treatment also increased the stimulus intensity required to trigger epileptiform bursts in injured slices by 2-4 fold. Consistent with these findings, LEV treatment of CCI-injured rats (n = 15) significantly reduced the proportion of animals that exhibited spontaneous and stimulus-evoked epileptiform bursts in ex vivo cortical slices compared to saline-treated controls (n = 15 rats), and also significantly increased the stimulus intensity required to evoke epileptiform bursts. These results suggest that early administration of LEV has the potential to prevent or reduce posttraumatic epileptogenesis and that there may be a narrow therapeutic window for successful prophylactic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lie Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Sonia Afroz
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; Program in Neural and Behavioral Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Helen A Valsamis
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; Department of Neurology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 1213, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; Neurology Service, Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Hillary B Michelson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Jeffrey H Goodman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; Department of Neurology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 1213, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; Department of Developmental Neurobiology, The New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY 10314, USA.
| | - Douglas S F Ling
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; Program in Neural and Behavioral Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA; The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Behavioral and Neural Science, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 29, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
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Liou JH, Chang YL, Lee HT, Wu MF, Hou YC, Liou WS. Preventing epilepsy after traumatic brain injury: A propensity score analysis. J Chin Med Assoc 2020; 83:950-955. [PMID: 32858550 PMCID: PMC7526576 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000000414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the potential consequences of post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) exacerbating secondary injury following traumatic brain injury (TBI), the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is an accepted option for seizure prophylaxis. However, there is only a paucity of data that can be found regarding outcomes surrounding the use of AEDs. The purpose of this retrospective study is to evaluate whether the prophylactic administration of AEDs significantly decreased the incidence of PTE, when considering the severity of TBI. METHODS All trauma patients who had been newly diagnosed with TBI from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Statistical comparisons were made using the chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Cox regression modeling. After excluding any exposed subjects with no appropriate match, patients who had received AED prophylaxis were matched by propensity score with those who did not receive AEDs. All of the TBI populations were followed up until June 30, 2018. RESULTS We identified 1316 patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria in our matched cohort through their propensity scores, where 138 patients had been receiving prophylactic AEDs and 138 patients had not. Baseline characteristics were similar in gender, age, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores, and risk factors of PTE including skull fracture, chronic alcoholism, subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, and intracerebral hematoma. After adjusting for those risk factors, the relative incidence of seizure was not statistically significant in either of the groups (p = 0.566). CONCLUSION In our cohort analysis, AED prophylaxis was ineffective in preventing seizures, as the rate of seizures was similar whether patients had been receiving the drugs or not. We therefore concluded that the benefits of routine prophylactic anticonvulsant therapy in patients with TBI need to be re-evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaw-Horng Liou
- Department of Pharmacy, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yen-Lin Chang
- Department of Pharmacy, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hsu-Tung Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurology of Institute, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Cancer Prevention and Control Center, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ming-Fen Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yu-Chi Hou
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Shyong Liou
- Department of Pharmacy, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Address correspondence. Dr. Wen-Shyong Liou, Department of Pharmacy, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, 1650, Taiwan Boulevard Section 4, Taichung 407, Taiwan, ROC. E-mail address: (W.-S. Liou)
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Xu S, Sun Q, Fan J, Jiang Y, Yang W, Cui Y, Yu Z, Jiang H, Li B. Role of Astrocytes in Post-traumatic Epilepsy. Front Neurol 2019; 10:1149. [PMID: 31798512 PMCID: PMC6863807 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.01149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury, a common cause of acquired epilepsy, is typical to find necrotic cell death within the injury core. The dynamic changes in astrocytes surrounding the injury core contribute to epileptic seizures associated with intense neuronal firing. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that activate astrocytes during traumatic brain injury or the effect of functional changes of astrocytes on seizures. In this comprehensive review, we present our cumulated understanding of the complex neurological affection in astrocytes after traumatic brain injury. We approached the problem through describing the changes of cell morphology, neurotransmitters, biochemistry, and cytokines in astrocytes during post-traumatic epilepsy. In addition, we also discussed the relationship between dynamic changes in astrocytes and seizures and the current pharmacologic agents used for treatment. Hopefully, this review will provide a more detailed knowledge from which better therapeutic strategies can be developed to treat post-traumatic epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songbai Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qihan Sun
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jie Fan
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanyuan Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yifeng Cui
- Department of Pediatrics, Yanbian Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Yanji, China
| | - Zhenxiang Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Huiyi Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bingjin Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Brody DL, Chan L, Cizza G. How do you treat traumatic brain injury? One symptom at a time. Ann Neurol 2019; 86:329-331. [PMID: 31206780 PMCID: PMC9808892 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David L. Brody
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Leighton Chan
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine and National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Giovanni Cizza
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Bethesda, MD
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy P Zinkus
- Division of Radiology, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO
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Candy N, Tsimiklis C, Poonnoose S, Trivedi R. The use of antiepileptic medication in early post traumatic seizure prophylaxis at a single institution. J Clin Neurosci 2019; 69:198-205. [PMID: 31451375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2019.07.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current international guidelines for traumatic brain injury (TBI) recommend the use of phenytoin for the prevention of early post traumatic seizures (PTS) when the benefits are thought to outweigh the risks. In practice however, alternative antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) such as levetiracetam and valproate are being used as they are believed to have a more favourable risk profile. This is despite there being insufficient evidence to support their efficacy. The purpose of this study was to identify which AED was prescribed to patients presenting with a TBI at a single institution, and to determine the rate of early PTSs. METHODS This was a retrospective case-note review study done at the Flinders Medical Centre including patients admitted from May 2013 to June 2017. All patients with traumatic intracranial haematomas were included. Patients were excluded if they had seizures prior to presentation to hospital or died within 24 h of injury. The primary outcomes were rate of early PTSs and the type of prophylactic AED prescribed. RESULTS During this study period, 610 patients presented with a mild, moderate or severe traumatic brain injury. Overall, 16% of patients were prescribed an AED, with more than 90% of these patients being prescribed levetiracetam. Overall, the rate of early PTSs for patients prescribed AEDs was 2.9% compared with 3.5% for patients not prescribed AEDs (OR 0.83 CI 0.24-2.85 p = 1). CONCLUSIONS This study showed that levetiracetam was the most commonly prescribed AED. It also demonstrated no statistically significant difference in the rate of early PTSs in patients with TBI, with or without prophylactic AEDs. This is in keeping with other contemporary studies, and therefore the routine administration of prophylactic AEDs may need to be re-examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Candy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide 5042, Australia.
| | | | - Santosh Poonnoose
- Department of Neurosurgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Riki Trivedi
- Division of Neurosurgery, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
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Kwon SJ, Barletta JF, Hall ST, Mangram AJ, Dzandu JK, Abdulhamid M, Zach V. Lacosamide versus phenytoin for the prevention of early post traumatic seizures. J Crit Care 2019; 50:50-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Wat R, Mammi M, Paredes J, Haines J, Alasmari M, Liew A, Lu VM, Arnaout O, Smith TR, Gormley WB, Aglio LS, Mekary RA, Zaidi H. The Effectiveness of Antiepileptic Medications as Prophylaxis of Early Seizure in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury Compared with Placebo or No Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. World Neurosurg 2019; 122:433-440. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.11.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Ngwenya LB, Danzer SC. Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury on Neurogenesis. Front Neurosci 2019; 12:1014. [PMID: 30686980 PMCID: PMC6333744 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.01014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
New neurons are generated in the hippocampal dentate gyrus from early development through adulthood. Progenitor cells and immature granule cells in the subgranular zone are responsive to changes in their environment; and indeed, a large body of research indicates that neuronal interactions and the dentate gyrus milieu regulates granule cell proliferation, maturation, and integration. Following traumatic brain injury (TBI), these interactions are dramatically altered. In addition to cell losses from injury and neurotransmitter dysfunction, patients often show electroencephalographic evidence of cortical spreading depolarizations and seizure activity after TBI. Furthermore, treatment for TBI often involves interventions that alter hippocampal function such as sedative medications, neuromodulating agents, and anti-epileptic drugs. Here, we review hippocampal changes after TBI and how they impact the coordinated process of granule cell adult neurogenesis. We also discuss clinical TBI treatments that have the potential to alter neurogenesis. A thorough understanding of the impact that TBI has on neurogenesis will ultimately be needed to begin to design novel therapeutics to promote recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura B Ngwenya
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States.,Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States.,Neurotrauma Center, University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Steve C Danzer
- Department of Anesthesia, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States.,Department of Anesthesia, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States.,Center for Pediatric Neuroscience, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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Morano A, Iannone L, Palleria C, Fanella M, Giallonardo AT, De Sarro G, Russo E, Di Bonaventura C. Pharmacology of new and developing intravenous therapies for the management of seizures and epilepsy. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2018; 20:25-39. [PMID: 30403892 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2018.1541349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are administered orally for chronic use. Parenteral formulations might be necessary when the oral route is not feasible (e.g. an impairment of consciousness, trauma, dysphagia, gastrointestinal illness) or for treatment of seizure emergencies. At present, few intravenous (IV) formulations are available on the market. AREAS COVERED The purpose of this review is to summarize the pharmacological characteristics and clinical applications of IV medications that have been recently introduced to the armamentarium of epilepsy therapy or are currently being developed. Apart from AEDs, other compounds belonging to different pharmacological classes (e.g. diuretics, anesthetics), which have shown potential effectiveness in seizure control, are taken into consideration, and the pathophysiological premises supporting their use for epilepsy treatment are illustrated. The authors give particular focus to immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive agents, which have become the therapeutic cornerstones for immune-mediated epilepsies, despite regulatory obstacles. EXPERT OPINION In several circumstances, especially in the case of seizure-related emergencies, clinical practice seems not match literature-based evidence, and several IV AEDs are still used off-label. Strong evidence derived from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) is needed to support the effectiveness and tolerability of any therapeutic approach, however common and "accepted' it may be, in order to guarantee patient safety and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Morano
- a Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health , "Sapienza" University , Rome , Italy
| | - Luigi Iannone
- b Science of Health Department, School of Medicine , University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Caterina Palleria
- b Science of Health Department, School of Medicine , University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Martina Fanella
- a Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health , "Sapienza" University , Rome , Italy
| | - Anna Teresa Giallonardo
- a Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health , "Sapienza" University , Rome , Italy
| | - Giovambattista De Sarro
- b Science of Health Department, School of Medicine , University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- b Science of Health Department, School of Medicine , University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Carlo Di Bonaventura
- a Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health , "Sapienza" University , Rome , Italy
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Zhao L, Wu YP, Qi JL, Liu YQ, Zhang K, Li WL. Efficacy of levetiracetam compared with phenytoin in prevention of seizures in brain injured patients: A meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e13247. [PMID: 30508910 PMCID: PMC6283080 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000013247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early and/or late onset in patients with brain injury (BI) is associated with a poorer prognosis, and phenytoin (PHT) is standard of care to prevent seizures. Levetiracetam (LEV), an alternative antiepileptic drug, is associated with less cognitive disruption. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LEV in the prevention of brain traumatic seizures with the standard drug PHT. METHODS Search the publications on comparison the safety and efficacy of LEV against the standard agent PHT in prevention of traumatic seizures in BI to January 2018. After rigorous reviewing on quality, the data were extracted from eligible trials. All trials analyzed the summary hazard ratios of the endpoints of interest. RESULTS LEV was found not more effective than PHT in terms of overall seizure (odds ratio [OR] = 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.51-1.05; P = .09), and late seizure (OR = 0.64; 95% CI = 0.34-1.19; P = .16) occurrence. However, there is significant difference in terms of early seizure (OR = 0.63; 95% CI = 0.40-0.99; P = .04). Moreover, there were no significant differences in terms of mortality (OR = 0.67; 95% CI = 0.43-1.05; P = .08), or side effects (OR = 1.31; 95% CI = 0.80-2.15; P = .29) between groups. CONCLUSION The meta-analysis showed that LEV prevention of seizures was associated with early seizure rates that were lower than the PHT-prolonged course of treatment. There is no statistically significant difference in the efficacy and safety profile of PHT and LEV in cases of traumatic BI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University
| | - Yu-Peng Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University
| | - Jin-Long Qi
- Department of Pharmacology, Hebei Medical University
| | - Yong-Qiang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The No 1 Hospital of Shijiazhuang City
| | - Kai Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wen-Ling Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University
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Farrokh S, Tahsili-Fahadan P, Ritzl EK, Lewin JJ, Mirski MA. Antiepileptic drugs in critically ill patients. Crit Care 2018; 22:153. [PMID: 29880020 PMCID: PMC5992651 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-018-2066-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of seizures in intensive care units ranges from 3.3% to 34%. It is therefore often necessary to initiate or continue anticonvulsant drugs in this setting. When a new anticonvulsant is initiated, drug factors, such as onset of action and side effects, and patient factors, such as age, renal, and hepatic function, should be taken into account. It is important to note that the altered physiology of critically ill patients as well as pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions such as renal replacement therapy, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and target temperature management may lead to therapeutic failure or toxicity. This may be even more challenging with the availability of newer antiepileptics where the evidence for their use in critically ill patients is limited. MAIN BODY This article reviews the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antiepileptics as well as application of these principles when dosing antiepileptics and monitoring serum levels in critically ill patients. The selection of the most appropriate anticonvulsant to treat seizure and status epileptics as well as the prophylactic use of these agents in this setting are also discussed. Drug-drug interactions and the effect of nonpharmacological interventions such as renal replacement therapy, plasma exchange, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on anticonvulsant removal are also included. CONCLUSION Optimal management of antiepileptic drugs in the intensive care unit is challenging given altered physiology, polypharmacy, and nonpharmacological interventions, and requires a multidisciplinary approach where appropriate and timely assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring plans are in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salia Farrokh
- Department of Pharmacy, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Carnegie 180, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Pouya Tahsili-Fahadan
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, INOVA Campus, Falls Church, VA USA
| | - Eva K. Ritzl
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - John J. Lewin
- Department of Pharmacy, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Carnegie 180, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
| | - Marek A. Mirski
- Department of Pharmacy, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Carnegie 180, Baltimore, MD 21287 USA
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Hazama A, Ziechmann R, Arul M, Krishnamurthy S, Galgano M, Chin LS. The Effect of Keppra Prophylaxis on the Incidence of Early Onset, Post-traumatic Brain Injury Seizures. Cureus 2018; 10:e2674. [PMID: 30050729 PMCID: PMC6059528 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.2674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of long-term disability. Early onset post-traumatic seizures (PTS) after traumatic injury to the brain is a strong predictor of adverse outcomes in these patients. Our study investigates the role of Keppra in early PTS prophylaxis compared to no treatment, taking into account risk factors including injury severity, seizure history, and anti-epileptic drug (AED) use. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study based on patient chart data from January 2013 to January 2017 at a level one trauma center in the United States. A t-test was performed with P<0.05 as significant; we utilized a 95% confidence interval (CI) for our findings. Subgroup analysis was performed, with respect to the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (Group A: Mild GCS=13-15, Keppra N=135, Non-Keppra N=122; Group B: Moderate GCS=9-12, Keppra N=23, Non-Keppra N=19; Group C: Severe GCS= <8, Keppra N=69, Non-Keppra=35). Results: Of 403 patients included in the study, 227 were given Keppra. Demographics between treatment groups were similar. Whole cohort analysis confirmed six patients with PTS, and no significant difference between groups (Keppra N=3, Non-Keppra N=3, OR=0.77, P=0.75, 95% CI=(0.154-3.87)). Subgroup analysis revealed reduction in seizure incidence in Keppra groups A (OR=0.18, P=0.27, 95% CI=(0.008-3.80)) and B (OR=0.82, P=0.92, 95% CI=(0.015-43.7)), but this reduction was not statistically significant. Those with the severe TBI in group C accounted for the majority of seizures (n=4, OR=1.52, P=0.71, 95% CI=(0.15-15.4)). Conclusion: Patients with more severe TBI suffered a higher incidence of early-onset post-traumatic seizures. Data of the cohort as a whole revealed a trend towards a lower seizure incidence in patients who were treated with Keppra prophylaxis. Despite this trend, the decrease in seizure incidence did not reach statistical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hazama
- Neurosurgery, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - Robert Ziechmann
- School of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - Manu Arul
- School of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | | | - Michael Galgano
- Neurosurgery, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - Lawrence S Chin
- Neurosurgery, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
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Abstract
Background Seizures are a considerable complication in critically ill patients. Their incidence is significantly high in neurosciences intensive care unit patients. Seizure prophylaxis with anti-epileptic drugs is a common practice in neurosciences intensive care unit. However, its utility in patients without clinical seizure, with an underlying neurological injury, is somewhat controversial. Body In this article, we have reviewed the evidence for seizure prophylaxis in commonly encountered neurological conditions in neurosciences intensive care unit and discussed the possible prognostic role of continuous electroencephalography monitoring in detecting early seizures in critically ill patients. Conclusion Based on the current evidence and guidelines, we have proposed a presumptive protocol for seizure prophylaxis in neurosciences intensive care unit. Patients with severe traumatic brain injury and possible subarachnoid hemorrhage seem to benefit with a short course of anti-epileptic drug. In patients with other neurological illnesses, the use of continuous electroencephalography would make sense rather than indiscriminately administering anti-epileptic drug.
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de la Tremblaye PB, O'Neil DA, LaPorte MJ, Cheng JP, Beitchman JA, Thomas TC, Bondi CO, Kline AE. Elucidating opportunities and pitfalls in the treatment of experimental traumatic brain injury to optimize and facilitate clinical translation. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 85:160-175. [PMID: 28576511 PMCID: PMC5709241 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to discuss the research presented in a symposium entitled "Current progress in characterizing therapeutic strategies and challenges in experimental CNS injury" which was presented at the 2016 International Behavioral Neuroscience Society annual meeting. Herein we discuss diffuse and focal traumatic brain injury (TBI) and ensuing chronic behavioral deficits as well as potential rehabilitative approaches. We also discuss the effects of stress on executive function after TBI as well as the response of the endocrine system and regulatory feedback mechanisms. The role of the endocannabinoids after CNS injury is also discussed. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of antipsychotic and antiepileptic drugs, which are provided to control TBI-induced agitation and seizures, respectively. The review consists predominantly of published data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia B de la Tremblaye
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Darik A O'Neil
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Megan J LaPorte
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jeffrey P Cheng
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Joshua A Beitchman
- Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, United States; Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, United States; Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, United States
| | - Theresa Currier Thomas
- Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, United States; Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, United States; Phoenix VA Healthcare System, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Corina O Bondi
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Anthony E Kline
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.
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Wilson CD, Burks JD, Rodgers RB, Evans RM, Bakare AA, Safavi-Abbasi S. Early and Late Posttraumatic Epilepsy in the Setting of Traumatic Brain Injury: A Meta-analysis and Review of Antiepileptic Management. World Neurosurg 2018; 110:e901-e906. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2017.11.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Younus SM, Basar S, Gauri SA, Khan AA, Imran M, Abubakar S, Sheikh D, Shehbaz N, Ashraf J. Comparison of Phenytoin versus Levetiracetam in Early Seizure Prophylaxis after Traumatic Brain Injury, at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Asian J Neurosurg 2018; 13:1096-1100. [PMID: 30459875 PMCID: PMC6208194 DOI: 10.4103/ajns.ajns_125_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of phenytoin and levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Subjects and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted over a period of 6 months, at a tertiary health care center in Karachi, Pakistan. Patients with TBI were divided into two groups. Patients in Group A were given phenytoin, whereas Group B patients received levetiracetam. The first dose of the drugs was given within 24 h of injury and continued for 7 days. Data were collected using a predesigned pro forma. All the patients who were in a state of persistent coma, had altered mental status, or had clinical signs of seizures underwent a 1-h electroencephalographic (EEG) recording to observe the seizures, the first EEG was done on the 1st day posttrauma and a second one was done on day 7 of drug use, both the EEGs were compared for changes. We also analyzed the patients according to their duration of antiepileptic drug therapy, length of hospital stay, and complications during therapy. Results: One hundred and forty (117 males and 23 females) patients who presented with TBI having a mean age of 29.48 ± 16.24 years were part of the study. The most prevalent cause of brain injury was road traffic accidents in 72.85% patients. There was no significant relationship between the antiepileptic drug used with the initial EEG (P = 0.313) and seizure activity (P = 0.502). However, a significant correlation of the antiepileptic drug used was found with EEG (P = 0.002) and seizure activity (P = 0.014) on follow-up. Patients who took levetiracetam had decreased the incidence of abnormal EEG and seizure activity on follow-up. There was not any correlation between GCS both initially (P = 0.845) and on follow-up (P = 0.104) with the antiepileptic drug used. Conclusion: The incidence of abnormal EEGs and seizure activity in patients with TBI is the same for both levetiracetam and phenytoin for the initial 7 days post-TBI; however, the incidence of seizures is lower for patients who used levetiracetam on the subsequent follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Muneeb Younus
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saqib Basar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sheraz Ahmed Gauri
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ateeq Ahmed Khan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saadia Abubakar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Daniya Sheikh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Naila Shehbaz
- Department of Neurology, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Junaid Ashraf
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
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Geeraerts T, Velly L, Abdennour L, Asehnoune K, Audibert G, Bouzat P, Bruder N, Carrillon R, Cottenceau V, Cotton F, Courtil-Teyssedre S, Dahyot-Fizelier C, Dailler F, David JS, Engrand N, Fletcher D, Francony G, Gergelé L, Ichai C, Javouhey É, Leblanc PE, Lieutaud T, Meyer P, Mirek S, Orliaguet G, Proust F, Quintard H, Ract C, Srairi M, Tazarourte K, Vigué B, Payen JF. Management of severe traumatic brain injury (first 24hours). Anaesth Crit Care Pain Med 2017; 37:171-186. [PMID: 29288841 DOI: 10.1016/j.accpm.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The latest French Guidelines for the management in the first 24hours of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) were published in 1998. Due to recent changes (intracerebral monitoring, cerebral perfusion pressure management, treatment of raised intracranial pressure), an update was required. Our objective has been to specify the significant developments since 1998. These guidelines were conducted by a group of experts for the French Society of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine (Société francaise d'anesthésie et de réanimation [SFAR]) in partnership with the Association de neuro-anesthésie-réanimation de langue française (ANARLF), The French Society of Emergency Medicine (Société française de médecine d'urgence (SFMU), the Société française de neurochirurgie (SFN), the Groupe francophone de réanimation et d'urgences pédiatriques (GFRUP) and the Association des anesthésistes-réanimateurs pédiatriques d'expression française (ADARPEF). The method used to elaborate these guidelines was the Grade® method. After two Delphi rounds, 32 recommendations were formally developed by the experts focusing on the evaluation the initial severity of traumatic brain injury, the modalities of prehospital management, imaging strategies, indications for neurosurgical interventions, sedation and analgesia, indications and modalities of cerebral monitoring, medical management of raised intracranial pressure, management of multiple trauma with severe traumatic brain injury, detection and prevention of post-traumatic epilepsia, biological homeostasis (osmolarity, glycaemia, adrenal axis) and paediatric specificities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Geeraerts
- Pôle anesthésie-réanimation, Inserm, UMR 1214, Toulouse neuroimaging center, ToNIC, université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, CHU de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France.
| | - Lionel Velly
- Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, Aix-Marseille université, CHU Timone, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Lamine Abdennour
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, groupe hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Karim Asehnoune
- Service d'anesthésie et de réanimation chirurgicale, Hôtel-Dieu, CHU de Nantes, 44093 Nantes cedex 1, France
| | - Gérard Audibert
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, hôpital Central, CHU de Nancy, 54000 Nancy, France
| | - Pierre Bouzat
- Pôle anesthésie-réanimation, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, 38043 Grenoble cedex 9, France
| | - Nicolas Bruder
- Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, Aix-Marseille université, CHU Timone, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Romain Carrillon
- Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, hôpital neurologique Pierre-Wertheimer, groupement hospitalier Est, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France
| | - Vincent Cottenceau
- Service de réanimation chirurgicale et traumatologique, SAR 1, hôpital Pellegrin, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - François Cotton
- Service d'imagerie, centre hospitalier Lyon Sud, hospices civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre-Bénite cedex, France
| | - Sonia Courtil-Teyssedre
- Service de réanimation pédiatrique, hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France
| | | | - Frédéric Dailler
- Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, hôpital neurologique Pierre-Wertheimer, groupement hospitalier Est, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France
| | - Jean-Stéphane David
- Service d'anesthésie réanimation, centre hospitalier Lyon Sud, hospices civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Nicolas Engrand
- Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, Fondation ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild, 75940 Paris cedex 19, France
| | - Dominique Fletcher
- Service d'anesthésie réanimation chirurgicale, hôpital Raymond-Poincaré, université de Versailles Saint-Quentin, AP-HP, Garches, France
| | - Gilles Francony
- Pôle anesthésie-réanimation, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, 38043 Grenoble cedex 9, France
| | - Laurent Gergelé
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, CHU de Saint-Étienne, 42055 Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Carole Ichai
- Service de réanimation médicochirurgicale, UMR 7275, CNRS, Sophia Antipolis, hôpital Pasteur, CHU de Nice, 06000 Nice, France
| | - Étienne Javouhey
- Service de réanimation pédiatrique, hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant, hospices civils de Lyon, 69677 Bron, France
| | - Pierre-Etienne Leblanc
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, hôpital de Bicêtre, hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Sud, AP-HP, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Équipe TIGER, CNRS 1072-Inserm 5288, service d'anesthésie, centre hospitalier de Bourg en Bresse, centre de recherche en neurosciences, Lyon, France
| | - Thomas Lieutaud
- UMRESTTE, UMR-T9405, IFSTTAR, université Claude-Bernard de Lyon, Lyon, France; Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, hôpital universitaire Necker-Enfants-Malades, université Paris Descartes, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Meyer
- EA 08 Paris-Descartes, service de pharmacologie et évaluation des thérapeutiques chez l'enfant et la femme enceinte, 75743 Paris cedex 15, France
| | - Sébastien Mirek
- Service d'anesthésie-réanimation, CHU de Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Gilles Orliaguet
- EA 08 Paris-Descartes, service de pharmacologie et évaluation des thérapeutiques chez l'enfant et la femme enceinte, 75743 Paris cedex 15, France
| | - François Proust
- Service de neurochirurgie, hôpital Hautepierre, CHU de Strasbourg, 67098 Strasbourg, France
| | - Hervé Quintard
- Service de réanimation médicochirurgicale, UMR 7275, CNRS, Sophia Antipolis, hôpital Pasteur, CHU de Nice, 06000 Nice, France
| | - Catherine Ract
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, hôpital de Bicêtre, hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Sud, AP-HP, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Équipe TIGER, CNRS 1072-Inserm 5288, service d'anesthésie, centre hospitalier de Bourg en Bresse, centre de recherche en neurosciences, Lyon, France
| | - Mohamed Srairi
- Pôle anesthésie-réanimation, Inserm, UMR 1214, Toulouse neuroimaging center, ToNIC, université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, CHU de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France
| | - Karim Tazarourte
- SAMU/SMUR, service des urgences, hospices civils de Lyon, hôpital Édouard-Herriot, 69437 Lyon cedex 03, France
| | - Bernard Vigué
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, hôpital de Bicêtre, hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Sud, AP-HP, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; Équipe TIGER, CNRS 1072-Inserm 5288, service d'anesthésie, centre hospitalier de Bourg en Bresse, centre de recherche en neurosciences, Lyon, France
| | - Jean-François Payen
- Pôle anesthésie-réanimation, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, 38043 Grenoble cedex 9, France
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Zangbar B, Khalil M, Gruessner A, Joseph B, Friese R, Kulvatunyou N, Wynne J, Latifi R, Rhee P, O'Keeffe T. Levetiracetam Prophylaxis for Post-traumatic Brain Injury Seizures is Ineffective: A Propensity Score Analysis. World J Surg 2017; 40:2667-2672. [PMID: 27307089 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-016-3606-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early seizures after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) have a reported incidence of up to 15 %. Prophylaxis for early seizures using 1 week of phenytoin is considered standard of care for seizure prevention. However, many centers have substituted the anticonvulsant levetiracetam without good data on the efficacy of this approach. Our hypothesis was that the treatment with levetiracetam is not effective in preventing early post-traumatic seizures. METHODS All trauma patients sustaining a TBI from January 2007 to December 2009 at an urban level-one trauma center were retrospectively analyzed. Seizures were identified from a prospectively gathered morbidity database and anticonvulsant use from the pharmacy database. Statistical comparisons were made by Chi square, t tests, and logistic regression modeling. Patients who received levetiracetam prophylaxis were matched 1:1 using propensity score matching with those who did not receive the drug. RESULTS 5551 trauma patients suffered a TBI during the study period, with an overall seizure rate of 0.7 % (39/5551). Of the total population, 1795 were diagnosed with severe TBI (Head AIS score 3-5). Seizures were 25 times more likely in the severe TBI group than in the non-severe group [2.0 % (36/1795) vs. 0.08 % (3/3756); OR 25.6; 95 % CI 7.8-83.2; p < 0.0001]. Of the patients who had seizures after severe TBI, 25 % (9/36) received pharmacologic prophylaxis with levetiracetam, phenytoin, or fosphenytoin. In a matched cohort by propensity scores, no difference was seen in seizure rates between the levetiracetam group and no-prophylaxis group (1.9 vs. 3.4 %, p = 0.50). CONCLUSIONS In this propensity score-matched cohort analysis, levetiracetam prophylaxis was ineffective in preventing seizures as the rate of seizures was similar whether patients did or did not receive the drug. The incidence of post-traumatic seizures in severe TBI patients was only 2.0 % in this study; therefore we question the benefit of routine prophylactic anticonvulsant therapy in patients with TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bardiya Zangbar
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Mazhar Khalil
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Angelika Gruessner
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Bellal Joseph
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Randall Friese
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Julie Wynne
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Rifat Latifi
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Peter Rhee
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability in patients with trauma. Management strategies must focus on preventing secondary injury by avoiding hypotension and hypoxia and maintaining appropriate cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), which is a surrogate for cerebral blood flow. CPP can be maintained by increasing mean arterial pressure, decreasing intracranial pressure, or both. The goal should be euvolemia and avoidance of hypotension. Other factors that deserve important consideration in the acute management of patients with TBI are venous thromboembolism, stress ulcer, and seizure prophylaxis, as well as nutritional and metabolic optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Vella
- Chief Resident in General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Section of Surgical Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Medical Center North, CCC-4312, 1161 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232-2730,
| | - Marie Crandall
- Professor of Surgery, Division of Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209,
| | - Mayur B. Patel
- Assistant Professor of Surgery, Neurosurgery, Hearing & Speech Sciences, Division of Trauma, Surgical Critical Care, and Emergency General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Section of Surgical Sciences, Center for Health Services Research, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 21 Avenue South, Medical Arts Building, Suite 404, Nashville, TN 37212,
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A Systematic Appraisal of Neurosurgical Seizure Prophylaxis: Guidance for Critical Care Management. J Neurosurg Anesthesiol 2017; 28:233-49. [PMID: 26192247 DOI: 10.1097/ana.0000000000000206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Clinical decisions are often made in the presence of some uncertainty. Health care should be based on a combination of scientific evidence, clinical experience, economics, patient value judgments, and preferences. Seizures are not uncommon following brain injury, surgical trauma, hemorrhage, altered brain metabolism, hypoxia, or ischemic events. The impact of seizures in the immediate aftermath of injury may be a prolonged intensive care stay or compounding of the primary injury. The aim of brain injury management is to limit the consequences of the secondary damage. The original intention of seizure prophylaxis was to limit the incidence of early-onset seizures. However, clinical trials have been equivocal on this point, and there is concern about the adverse effects of antiepileptic drug therapy. This review of the literature raises concerns regarding the arbitrary division of seizures into early onset (7 d) and late onset (8 d and beyond). In many cases it would appear that seizures present within 24 hours of the injury or after 7 days, which would be outside of the scope of current seizure prophylaxis guidance. There also does not appear to be a pathophysiological reason to divide brain injury-related seizures into these timeframes. Therefore, a solution to the conundrum is to reevaluate current practice. Prophylaxis could be offered to those receiving intensive care for the primary brain injury, where the impact of seizure would be detrimental to the management of the brain injury, or other clinical judgments where prophylaxis is prudent. Neurosurgical seizure management can then focus attention on which agent has the best adverse effect profile and the duration of therapy. The evidence seems to support levetiracetam as the most appropriate agent. Although previous reviews have identified an increase cost associated with the use of levetiracetam, current cost comparisons with phenytoin demonstrate a marginal price differential. The aim of this review is to assimilate the applicable literature regarding seizure prophylaxis. The final guidance is a forum upon which further clinical research could evaluate a new seizure prophylaxis paradigm.
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Management of Medical Complications During the Rehabilitation of Moderate-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2017; 28:259-270. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE Subdural hematomas (SDH) are associated with seizures and epileptiform discharges, but little is known about the prevalence and impact of seizures, status epilepticus (SE), and epileptiform discharges on outcomes in patients with isolated acute SDH (aSDH). METHODS Continuous EEG reports from 76 adult patients admitted to Rush University Medical Center with aSDH between January 2009 and March 2012 were reviewed. Clinical and radiographic findings, comorbidities, treatment, and outcome parameters, such as mortality, discharge destination, need for tracheostomy/percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement, and length of stay (LOS), were assessed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the impact of clinical seizures, SE, and epileptiform EEG on outcomes. RESULTS Of 76 patients with aSDH who underwent EEG monitoring, 74 (97.4%) received antiseizure prophylaxis. Thirty-two (41.1%) patients had seizures, most of which were clinical seizures. Twenty-four (32%) patients had epileptiform EEG findings. Clinical or nonconvulsive SE was diagnosed in 12 (16%) patients. Clinical seizures were not associated with outcome parameters. Epileptiform EEG findings were independently associated with longer hospital LOS (13 vs. 8 days, P = 0.04) and intensive care unit LOS (10 vs. 4 days, P = 0.002). The SE also predicted longer intensive care unit LOS (10 vs. 4 days, P = 0.002). Neither epileptiform EEG nor SE was significantly related to mortality, discharge destination, or need for tracheostomy/percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement. CONCLUSIONS Seizures and epileptiform EEG findings are very common in patients with aSDH despite antiseizure prophylaxis. While clinical seizures did not affect outcomes, the presence of epileptiform EEG findings and SE was independently associated with longer intensive care unit LOS and hospital LOS.
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Abstract
This article highlights the emerging therapeutic potential of specific epigenetic modulators as promising antiepileptogenic or disease-modifying agents for curing epilepsy. Currently, there is an unmet need for antiepileptogenic agents that truly prevent the development of epilepsy in people at risk. There is strong evidence that epigenetic signaling, which exerts high fidelity regulation of gene expression, plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of epileptogenesis and chronic epilepsy. These modifications are not hard-wired into the genome and are constantly reprogrammed by environmental influences. The potential epigenetic mechanisms, including histone modifications, DNA methylation, microRNA-based transcriptional control, and bromodomain reading activity, can drastically alter the neuronal gene expression profile by exerting their summative effects in a coordinated fashion. Such an epigenetic intervention appears more rational strategy for preventing epilepsy because it targets the primary pathway that initially triggers the numerous downstream cellular and molecular events mediating epileptogenesis. Among currently approved epigenetic drugs, the majority are anticancer drugs with well-established profiles in clinical trials and practice. Evidence from preclinical studies supports the premise that these drugs may be applied to a wide range of brain disorders. Targeting histone deacetylation by inhibiting histone deacetylase enzymes appears to be one promising epigenetic therapy since certain inhibitors have been shown to prevent epileptogenesis in animal models. However, developing neuronal specific epigenetic modulators requires rational, pathophysiology-based optimization to efficiently intercept the upstream pathways in epileptogenesis. Overall, epigenetic agents have been well positioned as new frontier tools towards the national goal of curing epilepsy.
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Is There a Need for Early Seizure Prophylaxis After Traumatic Brain Injury? PM R 2016; 8:169-75. [PMID: 26897597 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2016.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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