Seizures in the ICU – Part 5
Status Epilepticus causes irreversible brain damage after about 20 minutes in adults. Left untreated the body will attempt to terminate status epilepticus
through the use of inhibitory mechanisms associated with GABAergic neuronal systems. However, the excess extracellular potassium generated potentiates more seizures with increased demand for oxygen and glucose. Eventually, energy supplies become exhausted and there is local catabolism to support the continously discharging ion pumps and local brain cells die. The most vulnerable area is the hippocampus, which contains the memory.
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