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Updated: May 16, 2026
03:37
Cerebral Ischemic Coma Model Induced by Modified Four-Vessel Occlusion
Published on: July 5, 2024
A reversible cause of coma in epilepsy
Praveen Kesav1, Vishnu V Y, Dheeraj Khurana
1Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India.
BMJ Case Reports
|December 15, 2012
Summary
A young epilepsy patient experienced reversible coma due to high ammonia levels caused by valproate medication. This case highlights a rare but serious side effect of valproate therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Clinical Toxicology
Background:
- Epilepsy management often involves valproate.
- Altered sensorium is a common neurological concern.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old female with epilepsy presented in a coma.
- Initial investigations for common causes of altered mental status were negative.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with reversible coma.
- The coma was attributed to valproate-induced hyperammonaemia.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering drug-induced hyperammonaemia in patients on valproate.
- Prompt diagnosis and management can lead to full recovery from valproate toxicity.
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