Sweet Seizures – Epilepsia Partialis Continua

Abstract

Epilepsia partialis continua (EPC) refers to focal and recurrent seizures that happenevery few seconds to minutes for extended periods of time. The most common causesof these seizures are stroke, Rasmussen’s encephalitis (in children), and viral encephalitis.Metabolic disorders, like hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), infrequentlycause EPC. Correction of the HHS stops the EPC and eliminates the need for antiepilepticdrugs. Synaptic transmission in the central nervous system requires normal glucoseconcentrations. Hyperglycemia can lower the seizure threshold, and this possiblyexplains the development of seizures in patients with HHS.

Keywords

• Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state
• epilepsia partialis continua
• focal seizures
• diabetes