Are We Prepared to Detect Subtle and Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus in Critically Ill Patients?

Abstract

Continuous electroencephalography uncovers a clinically underappreciated burden of subtle and nonconvulsive status epilepticus in critically ill patients. Prolonged recordings over days are labor intensive and patient or medical equipment related electrographic artifacts are challenging, calling for a targeted use of electroencephalography in patients with defined seizure risk profiles. This review compiles current data of the impact of continuous electroencephalography on the detection of subtle and nonconvulsive status epilepticus in different clinical scenarios and its contribution to treatment and monitoring in intensive care units. Current recommendations on the use of continuous electroencephalography in the critically ill are outlined.