Ictal laryngospasm monitored by video-EEG and polygraphy: a potential SUDEP mechanism

Abstract

A 56-year-old man with refractory bitemporal epilepsy was monitored in the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU). In a video-EEG captured seizure, brief oroalimentary automatisms were followed by increased inspiratory effort, accompanied by prominent, visible tracheal movements and audible inspiratory stridor. The patient's oxygen saturation rapidly declined to 62%; persistent severe hypoxemia ended with spontaneous effective respiration commencing at seizure end. Subsequent seizures necessitated intensive care unit admission for respiratory distress, and ventilator support. This case suggests that ictal laryngospasm, a rare seizure manifestation, may represent another potential mechanism of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). [Published with video sequence on www.epilepticdisorders.com].

Keywords: SUDEP; airway obstruction; apnea; breathing; laryngospasm.