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Updated: Apr 16, 2026
07:35
Behavioral Characterization of Pentylenetetrazole-induced Seizures: Moving Beyond the Racine Scale
Published on: July 8, 2025
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A 51-year-old man with seizures and progressive behavioral changes
Casey A Cable1, William D Freeman2, Mark N Rubin3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL.
Chest
|March 4, 2015
Summary
A man experienced new-onset seizures and behavioral changes, possibly linked to a recent trip. Despite treatment, his condition worsened, requiring intubation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- A 51-year-old man with a history of genital herpes presented with new-onset generalized seizures and behavioral changes.
- He had a significant smoking history and recent travel to Panama.
Observation:
- Initial symptoms included flattened affect, episodes of "passing out," gait instability, and lethargy.
- Seizures increased in frequency, leading to admission for suspected viral encephalitis.
Findings:
- Despite broad antimicrobial and antiviral therapy, the patient's neurological status declined.
- The patient ultimately required intubation for airway protection due to decreased alertness.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering infectious etiologies, including rare ones, in patients with new-onset seizures and neurological decline.
- Prompt diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in such complex neurological presentations.
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