Non-convulsive status epilepticus in children. A report of 12 cases

OBJECTIVE: To look for pattern of non-convulsive status epilepticus in children with epilepsy at the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Sultanate of Oman.

METHODS: Twelve children (6 male and 6 female) with non-convulsive status epilepticus were seen at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital from December 1992 until December 1997. The diagnosis was suspected in children with previous history of seizures who had recent change in behavior, memory, automatism or ataxia, or children presenting with unexplained ataxia, speech loss and prolonged inattention for the first time. All the patients were observed in the hospital. Electroencephalogram correlation with the above clinical presentation, of at least 30 mintues was used to confirm the diagnosis.

RESULTS: Complex partial seizures status and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome status constituted the majority (7 cases). Intravenous midazolam and phenytoin sodium were used to control status in 9 cases. On follow-up, 5 were adequately controlled, while 6 had recurrence. One patient was lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSION: Non-convulsive status epilepticus should be suspected in children with recent onset change in speech, memory, school performance, unexplained ataxia and particularly in children with epilepsy who undergo an otherwise inexplicable change in behavior.