Abstract
PurposeDifferentiating between epileptic seizures, convulsive syncope or non-epileptic seizures is a common diagnostic challenge in the acute setting. Plasma-lactate levels have previously been proposed as a tool to aid in differentiating between epileptic and non-epileptic seizures, with lower levels of lactate suggesting a non-epileptic origin. The aim of this study was to investigate levels of lactate in non-epileptic seizures. MethodsHealthy subjects were asked to perform a simulated seizure lasting no more than 5 min. Venous blood samples were taken before and immediately after the simulated seizure and analyzed using an ABL90 FLEX yielding information about lactate, pH, pO2,pCO2, electrolytes and plasma glucose. Results8 people participated in the study: 6 men and 2 women aged 27–45. The average pre-simulation lactate was 1.1 mmol/L while the average pH was 7.39. The average post-simulation lactate was 10.2 mmol/L while the average pH was 7.25. This means an average increase in plasma-lactate of 9.1 mmol/L and an average drop of 0.15 in pH. ConclusionOur data indicate that high rises in lactate levels are not specific for an epileptic origin. Further study of lactate as a marker for epileptic seizures is warrented.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
