Status Epilepticus

Status epilepticus is a neurological emergency requiring prompt recognition and management. This term describes a range of etiologies united by continuous or frequent seizures, diagnosed either clinically or electrographically. The morbidity and mortality of status epilepticus are clearly time dependent, necessitating urgent intervention. Refractory and super-refractory status epilepticus describe seizures that persist after appropriate therapy with antiseizure medications; treatment of these etiologies remains controversial and is best managed in a critical care environment.