[Post stroke seizures and Vascular epilepsy]

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident, CVA), whether ischemic or hemorrhagic, is one of the main causes of epilepsy in the elderly. This condition leads to an increased risk of post-stroke seizures, affecting both patients' functional recovery and their quality of life. (1,2) Aim: To clarify and simplify the management of vascular epilepsy, based on recent expert recommendations. This study seeks to address the specific challenges related to the incidence of post-stroke seizures, considering the clinical characteristics and therapeutic needs of patients who have experienced a stroke.

Methods: An analysis of available studies was conducted, considering different stroke subtypes, timing of seizure onset, and risk factors such as age, comorbidities, and stroke severity. Current recommendations for managing vascular epilepsy were also included.

Results: The results show variability in the incidence of seizures depending on stroke subtype and timing post-stroke. They also highlight a lack of consensus regarding certain risk factors and suitable management strategies.

Conclusion: This study emphasizes the need for clear guidelines for managing post-stroke epilepsy, especially for high-risk elderly patients. Current recommendations provide useful insights, but further research is needed to better define risk factors and optimize management strategies.

Keywords: Stroke; anti-epileptic medications; early epileptic seizure; vascular epilepsy.