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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
10:58
Targeted Neuronal Injury for the Non-Invasive Disconnection of Brain Circuitry
Published on: September 27, 2020
Neurology at the airport.
Araceli Alonso-Cánovas1, Alicia de Felipe-Mimbrera, Jaime González-Valcárcel
1Department of Neurology, IRYCIS, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|May 10, 2011
Summary
Neurological issues are common in air travelers. This study found drug-induced seizures and ischemic strokes from large-artery atherosclerosis were the most frequent neurological problems in this population.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Travel Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Neurological problems are frequently reported among air travelers.
- A systematic approach is needed to understand these neurological issues associated with air travel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically investigate neurological problems occurring in air travelers.
- To identify common neurological diagnoses in patients presenting after air travel.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a prospective registry of patients referred from Madrid-Barajas International Airport.
- Inclusion of patients requiring neurological consultation in a tertiary university hospital over 21 months.
Main Results:
- 77 air travelers presented with neurological problems; 50.9% had seizures and 23.4% had strokes.
- Seizures were associated with drug use, including cases related to 'body packers'.
- Ischemic strokes were linked to high-grade carotid stenosis and economy-class syndrome; six stroke patients received thrombolysis.
Conclusions:
- Drug-induced seizures and ischemic strokes due to large-artery atherosclerosis are the most common neurological diagnoses in air travelers.
- Non-adherence to epilepsy treatment and drug use are significant factors in seizures among air travelers.
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