Status epilepticus in children

Status epilepticus is defined as a continuous seizure lasting for at least 30 minutes or recurrent seizures persisting for over 30 minutes, without recovery of consciousness. The estimated incidence in childhood is approximately 20 per 100,000 children per year. The incidence is higher in those under one year of age, with an incidence of approximately 50 per 100,000 per year. Among 1-4 year olds, approximately 30 per 100,000 per year will have an episode of status and in those aged 5-9 years, the incidence is approximately 10 per 100,000 per year. Those aged 10-15 years have the lowest incidence (approximately 2 per 100,000 per year). The mortality associated with status epilepticus in children is estimated at 2.5-5%, and is primarily related to the underlying cause of the episode of status. Neurological morbidity is seen in less than 15% of affected children. In most cases, the episode of status is either a single isolated event or is the first manifestation of epilepsy. Only 12% of cases occur in children with a prior diagnosis of epilepsy. It is essential to have an organized approach for dealing with status epilepticus. There is little data to support the contention that one protocol is better than another. It is recommended that each center should decide on a protocol that is rational and is standard practice for their patients. Most centers initiate therapy with either buccal or intravenous lorazepam. Alternate initial therapies include diazepam or midazolam. Early treatment is generally recommended although, in humans, there is minimal evidence that the length of seizure directly affects outcome. There is however, abundant evidence in animals, which indicates that longer seizures are harmful and result in poorer outcome. Early intervention does, however, increase the likelihood of attaining seizure control in humans. The optimal management of the child in a prolonged seizure therefore demands an understanding of the potential causes, appropriate investigations, and therapy.