Modulation of presynaptic gamma aminobutyric acid release by prostaglandin E2: explanation for epileptogenic activity and dysfunction in autonomic cardiac neural discharge leading to arrhythmias?

Abstract

Sudden unexplained death accounts for 5-17% of deaths in the epileptic population. It has no known etiology by definition but autonomic dysfunction has been mentioned as a possible progenitor. A review of the literature was begun to ascertain a possible mechanism by which epileptogenic activity and autonomic dysfunction may be induced in these patients. Prostaglandin E2 is implicated as a possible gamma aminobutyric acid neurotransmitter inhibiting agent responsible for epileptogenic activity and autonomic dysfunction leading to arrhythmias in epileptic patients who suddenly die from unexplainable causes.