status epilepticus
Pronunciation: STAY-tus eh-pih-LEP-tih-kus
Prolonged seizure activity lasting more than five minutes or recurrent seizures without return to baseline.
Full Definition
Status epilepticus represents a neurological emergency characterized by continuous seizure activity exceeding five minutes or repeated seizures without interictal recovery of consciousness. This condition can be convulsive or non-convulsive and carries significant morbidity and mortality risks due to neuronal damage from prolonged electrical activity and metabolic demands. Emergency protocols emphasize rapid recognition and treatment with benzodiazepines followed by antiepileptic drugs. Documentation must include seizure duration, semiology, and response to treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Medical emergency; duration threshold recently reduced from 30 to 5 minutes.
In Context
- "The patient required intubation for refractory status epilepticus management." — Emergency department report
- "Non-convulsive status epilepticus was diagnosed by continuous EEG monitoring." — ICU progress note