Gerontology

Clinical Section

Acute Confusion or Altered Mental State: Consider Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus

Beyenburg S.a · Elger C.E.b · Reuber M.c

Author affiliations

aDepartment of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg; bDepartment of Epileptology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; cAcademic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK

Keywords: EpilepsySeizuresStatus epilepticusNonconvulsive status epilepticusComplex partial status epilepticusComorbidity

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Gerontology 2007;53:150–158
https://doi.org/10.1159/000106829

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Article / Publication Details

First-Page Preview
Abstract of Clinical Section

Received: March 20, 2007
Accepted: June 05, 2007
Published online: August 07, 2007
Issue release date: May 2008

Number of Print Pages: 9
Number of Figures: 2
Number of Tables: 3

ISSN: 0304-324X (Print)
eISSN: 1423-0003 (Online)

For additional information: https://www.karger.com/GER

Abstract

Background: The diagnosis of nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) is particularly challenging in elderly patients. Confusion, personality change, dysphasia, subtle motor activity and nystagmus may be the only presenting signs. Objective: To review current knowledge about NCSE with special focus on older people. Methods: Systematic review of the current literature via Medline search. Conclusion: Although prospective studies are still lacking, NCSE may be one of the most frequently missed diagnoses in patients presenting with altered mental status. Elderly patients are at particular risk of diagnostic errors because of the broad range of presentations of NCSE, significant comorbidities (especially cerebrovascular disease), limited awareness of this particular seizure emergency or difficulties with access to electroencephalography. Although diagnostic criteria and treatment remain controversial, the diagnosis of NCSE is important because it is potentially reversible.

© 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel



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Article / Publication Details

First-Page Preview
Abstract of Clinical Section

Received: March 20, 2007
Accepted: June 05, 2007
Published online: August 07, 2007
Issue release date: May 2008

Number of Print Pages: 9
Number of Figures: 2
Number of Tables: 3

ISSN: 0304-324X (Print)
eISSN: 1423-0003 (Online)

For additional information: https://www.karger.com/GER

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2007, Vol.53, No. 6

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