Neurológia pre prax 2/2011

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP)

Patients with epilepsy have increased mortality and sudden unexpected death (SUDEP) is the most frequent direct epilepsy-related cause of death. In this review the author summarizes risk factor, proposed mechanisms and potential preventive strategies. Universal discussion of SUDEP with all patients remains controversial.

Keywords: epilepsy, seizure, mortality, sudden death, SUDEP, ictal, bradycardia.