status epilepticus
Pronunciation: STAY-tus ep-ih-LEP-ti-kus
Also written as: SE — status epilepticus
Medical emergency involving prolonged or repeated seizures without recovery, requiring immediate treatment.
Full Definition
Status epilepticus is a neurological emergency defined as a seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes or recurrent seizures without return to baseline consciousness between episodes. This condition can be convulsive (with obvious motor manifestations) or non-convulsive (subtle or absent motor signs but continued altered mental status). Status epilepticus carries significant morbidity and mortality risks due to potential brain injury from prolonged seizure activity, respiratory compromise, and systemic complications. Treatment follows established protocols with escalating antiepileptic medications, and refractory status epilepticus may require anesthetic agents and intensive care management. The condition can occur in patients with known epilepsy or as a first presentation of seizure disorder.
Usage
Usage note: Specify convulsive vs non-convulsive type; SE is acceptable abbreviation in urgent clinical contexts.
In Context
- "The patient was admitted to the ICU for management of refractory status epilepticus requiring propofol infusion." — critical care consultation
- "Non-convulsive status epilepticus was diagnosed after EEG revealed continuous seizure activity despite normal appearance." — emergency department evaluation