Neurology
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To determine the frequency, predictors, and impact on outcome of epilepsy developing during the first year after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). ⋯ Epilepsy occurred in 7% of patients with SAH, was predicted by subdural hematoma and cerebral infarction, and was associated with poor functional recovery and quality of life. Our findings indicate that focal pathology, rather than diffuse injury from hemorrhage, is the principal cause of epilepsy after SAH.
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Review Practice Guideline Guideline
Practice parameter: antiepileptic drug prophylaxis in severe traumatic brain injury: report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology.
To review the evidence regarding antiepileptic drug (AED) prophylaxis in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in order to make practice recommendations. ⋯ For adult patients with severe TBI, prophylaxis with phenytoin is effective in decreasing the risk of early post-traumatic seizures. AED prophylaxis is probably not effective in decreasing the risk of late post-traumatic seizures. Further studies addressing milder forms of TBI, the use of newer AEDs, the utility of EEG, and the applicability of these findings to children are recommended.