NORSE
Pronunciation: norse
Also written as: NORSE — New-Onset Refractory Status Epilepticus
A critical condition of new-onset status epilepticus without clear acute cause, resistant to standard treatments.
Full Definition
New-Onset Refractory Status Epilepticus (NORSE) is a critical neurological emergency characterized by the development of refractory status epilepticus in a patient without active epilepsy or other obvious acute precipitant. NORSE typically begins as a febrile illness followed by seizures that become refractory to first- and second-line antiseizure medications. The condition may be cryptogenic or associated with autoimmune, infectious, or other inflammatory processes. NORSE carries significant morbidity and mortality, often requiring intensive care management and aggressive immunosuppressive therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from FIRES by age of onset; NORSE can occur at any age while FIRES is typically pediatric.
In Context
- "The patient met criteria for NORSE given the refractory seizures following a febrile prodrome." — Critical care consultation
- "Immunosuppressive therapy was initiated for suspected autoimmune NORSE." — Treatment protocol documentation