Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria (Oct 2013)

Environmental air pollution is an aggravating event for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy

  • Carla A. Scorza,
  • Lineu Calderazzo,
  • Ricardo M. Arida,
  • Esper A. Cavalheiro,
  • Fulvio A. Scorza

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1590/0004-282X20130092
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 71, no. 10
pp. 807 – 810

Abstract

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It is extremely difficult to estimate the occurrence of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). On the other hand, discovering and carefully evaluating new risk factors that may contribute to the onset of cardiovascular abnormalities in people with refractory epilepsy may prevent fatal events in these individuals. In this context, we should not ignore that urban air pollution is a leading problem for environmental health and is able to cause serious cardiovascular dysfunctions that culminate in sudden death. In this regard, we aimed to determine whether environmental exposure to air pollution is an aggravating event for SUDEP.

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