Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
The sudden death of a person with epilepsy where no other cause is identified at autopsy.
Full Definition
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is defined as the sudden, unexpected, witnessed or unwitnessed, non-traumatic, and non-drowning death of a patient with epilepsy with or without evidence of a seizure, and excluding documented status epilepticus, where postmortem examination does not reveal a structural or toxicological cause of death. SUDEP is the most common epilepsy-related cause of death and occurs at a rate 20-40 times higher than in the general population. Risk factors include frequent generalized tonic-clonic seizures, young age at onset, duration of epilepsy, and poor seizure control.
Usage
Usage note: Sensitive topic requiring careful communication with patients and families.
In Context
- "The family was counseled about SUDEP risk factors and prevention strategies." — Clinical consultation note
- "Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy remains an important consideration in risk-benefit discussions about treatment options." — Medical literature review