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[Propofol-induced generalized tonic-clonic seizure: a case report]
Tomoaki Yanaru1, Yasuyuki Sugi, Kazuo Higa
1Department of Anesthesiology, Fukuoka University Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka 814-0180.
Masui. the Japanese Journal of Anesthesiology
|August 19, 2010
Summary
Propofol infusion, used for anesthesia, can trigger generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients without a prior history of convulsions. Seizures resolved after discontinuing propofol.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Propofol is a widely used anesthetic agent.
- Seizure is a rare but serious adverse event associated with propofol administration.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old male patient experienced a generalized tonic-clonic seizure during propofol infusion for upper arm surgery.
- The patient had no prior history of seizures.
- The seizure persisted despite increased propofol infusion rate and intravenous midazolam administration.
Findings:
- Generalized tonic-clonic seizure occurred 10 minutes after initiating propofol infusion.
- Seizure activity gradually subsided 15 minutes after propofol infusion was stopped.
- Complete cessation of seizure activity was observed 30 minutes after discontinuing propofol.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential association between propofol and new-onset seizures in susceptible individuals.
- Anesthesiologists should be vigilant for seizure activity during propofol infusions, especially in patients with risk factors.
- Prompt recognition and management, including discontinuation of propofol, are crucial for seizure resolution.
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