Status epilepticus (SE), a state of prolonged, uncontrolled seizures, is a common emergency department (ED) presentation that is potentially life-threatening. Untreated, the mortality approaches 30%.
Following evidence-based, validated treatment algorithms can significantly improve outcomes.
Presentations may vary from clinically obvious tonic-clonic convulsions, to subtle focal seizures, to seemingly bizarre sensory alterations associated with partial seizures.
An awareness of the existence and presentations of these different forms is required.