[Treatment of status epilepticus in the adult. Retrospective analysis of 192 cases treated in intensive care units]

The results of therapy have been analyzed in a series of 192 patients admitted for status epilepticus over 7 years in two intensive care units. Most (142 cases without any prior epilepsy) corresponded to secondary forms. In 2/3 of the cases, the patients were admitted because of failure of benzodiazepines and/or phenobarbitone. Sodium thiopentone achieved control of seizures in 75%; short-acting barbiturates should be especially prescribed in grand mal status with impending brain anoxia. Diphenylhydantoin would appear suitable in non-life-threatening conditions such as serial seizures or partial status. Chlormethiazole often succeeds in controlling convulsive status which has proved refractory to other treatment. Supportive management is mandatory: 52% of patients required respiratory assistance. Fatalities (36%) exclusively correspond to the underlying cerebral conditions and systemic disorders.