Symptomatic non-convulsive status epilepticus in a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (case report)

Abstract

Symptomatic non-convulsive status epilepticus develops in intensive care unit patients without a history of epilepsy. It is diagnosed using video electroencephalographic monitoring. Electroencephalographic patterns of status epilepticus are not specific. Epileptiform activity must be recorded. When status epilepticus is prolonged, epileptiform activity changes in frequency, morphology, and localization. Rhythmic non-epileptiform patterns are also recorded on the electroencephalogram. The character of the electroencephalogram is influenced by acute cerebral insufficiency, disruption of the mechanisms of generation of bioelectric activity, and intensive therapy. As an illustration of symptomatic status epilepticus we present the case of a 15-year-old patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. This clinical case demonstrates the origin and course of symptomatic status epilepticus according to electroencephalography data. Timely diagnosis and relief of status epilepticus reduce the risk of epilepsy and neurological deficits in cancer patients after recovery from an urgent state.