Management of convulsive status epilepticus in children

Abstract

Convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) is the commonest neurological emergency in children, and is potentially life-threatening. The main principles of management encompass good basic life support, terminating the seizure with suitable drugs, and identifying and treating the underlying cause. The outcome is dependent on the aetiology of CSE and the duration of seizure. National resuscitation guidelines in the United Kingdom now focus on the importance of rapid recognition and treatment of CSE, with appropriate escalation of care involving intensive care at an earlier stage. In recent years, use of other drugs are being explored in various centres as part of the acute management of CSE including sodium valproate, levetiracetam and lacosamide. This ongoing research will provide further fundamental evidence-based information in shaping future guidelines for the optimal management of CSE in children.