Complications

Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
low

Focal neurologic deficits (e.g., Todd paralysis - a temporary paresis of affected motor or sensory function) generally recover within 24 hours, with duration proportional to duration of SE.

variable
medium

In new-onset SE (i.e., in individuals without preexisting epilepsy), unprovoked seizures and a diagnosis of epilepsy will follow in about 30%, with increased risk in those with more refractory SE.[91]

variable
low

Systemic complications following SE depend greatly on the etiology, duration, and treatment necessary for SE. Individuals recovering from absence SE are unlikely to have any adverse outcomes, while people recovering from super-refractory SE may have consequences of prolonged immobilization including muscle atrophy, deep vein thrombi, and skin breakdown.[88]

variable
low

Prolonged super-refractory SE may lead to hippocampal or cortical atrophy and more permanent cognitive or behavioral disturbances.[89][90]​​

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer