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Disseminated intravascular coagulation and status epilepticus
A Felcher1, C Commichau, Q Cao
1Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, NY, USA.
Neurology
|August 26, 1998
Summary
Status epilepticus can lead to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a serious bleeding disorder. This case highlights the potential link between severe seizures, hyperpyrexia, and DIC, emphasizing close temperature monitoring in affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Hematology
- Pathology
Background:
- Status epilepticus is a neurological emergency with potential systemic complications.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a rare but severe condition involving widespread coagulation activation.
- The pathogenesis linking status epilepticus and DIC remains poorly understood.
Observation:
- A fatal case of status epilepticus in a 41-year-old woman is presented.
- Laboratory results indicated significant activation of both coagulation and fibrinolytic pathways.
- Autopsy confirmed findings consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Findings:
- Profound activation of hemostatic systems was observed during status epilepticus.
- Autopsy findings supported the diagnosis of DIC in the deceased patient.
- Seizure-induced hyperpyrexia may cause endothelial damage, potentially triggering DIC.
Implications:
- Close monitoring of body temperature is crucial for patients experiencing prolonged seizures.
- Understanding the link between seizures and DIC may improve patient management.
- Further research into the pathogenesis of DIC in status epilepticus is warranted.