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Microwave oven injuries in patients with complex partial seizures
John C DeToledo1, Merredith R Lowe
1Department of Neurology, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA. JDeToled@med.miami.edu <JDeToled@med.miami.edu>
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|September 24, 2004
Summary
Microwave ovens can cause severe burns in individuals experiencing complex partial seizures (CPS). Patients with epilepsy should be warned about handling hot containers after microwaving, as pain does not prevent injury during a CPS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Medical Safety
Background:
- Microwave ovens are frequently suggested as a safe cooking method for individuals with epilepsy.
- However, potential risks associated with their use during seizures are not widely recognized.
Observation:
- Four patients with epilepsy sustained severe hand burns from handling hot containers of microwaved liquids.
- These injuries occurred during complex partial seizures (CPS).
Findings:
- Patients continued to hold scalding containers despite burns and reported no pain during the seizure.
- This suggests that neither high temperatures nor pain perception prevents injury during a CPS.
- Preventing individuals from accessing the microwave during a CPS is challenging.
Implications:
- Individuals with poorly controlled CPS require explicit warnings about the risks of microwave use.
- Minimizing risk may involve using microwave settings that prevent boiling and wearing protective gloves when handling hot items.
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