Aetiology and Outcome of Childhood Convulsive Status Epilepticus: A tertiary care experience in Oman

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the etiology, management, and outcomes of convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) in children highlighting the factors that affect patient outcome. Methods: In a retrospective study spanning 2020 to 2023, 93 children with convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) treated at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital's emergency department (ED), High Dependency (HD), and intensive care unit (ICU) were analyzed. The Modified Rankin Scale at discharge determined CSE outcome. Results: Study of 93 children (mean age 4.84 years ± 3.64), predominantly Omani (92.47%). Acute 14 symptomatic (37.7%) and  febrile tatus (31.2%) were primary causes. Diazepam used in 67.44% 15 cases as first-line treatment, with median seizure duration of 45 minutes. Successful control achieved in 16 76.34% within 60 minutes. Return to baseline in 55.9%, 5.38% mortality, and 38.7% disability. Etiology and 17 duration significantly impacted outcomes (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Acute symptomatic is the most common etiology of CSE, and a longer duration is associated with higher mortality and neurological disability. Therefore, managing CSE promptly and appropriately is crucial. Furthermore, identifying and treating the underlying cause is essential to reduce the duration of CSE and improve the outcome.

Keywords: Etiology, Outcome, Convulsive Status Epilepticus, Modified Rankin Scale