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Incidence, Implications, and Management of Seizures Following Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke

  • Epilepsy (C.W. Bazil, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

In this review, we summarize the recent literature regarding the incidence and treatment of seizures arising after ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Additionally, we identify open questions in guidelines and standard clinical care to aid future studies aiming to improve management of seizures in post-stroke patients.

Recent Findings

Studies demonstrate an increasing prevalence of seizures following strokes, probably a consequence of advances in post-stroke management and expanding use of continuous EEG monitoring. Post-stroke seizures are associated with longer hospitalization and increased mortality; therefore, prevention and timely treatment of seizures are important. The standard of care is to treat recurrent seizures with anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) regardless of the etiology. However, there are no established guidelines currently for prophylactic use of AEDs following a stroke.

Summary

The prevalence of post-stroke seizures is increasing. Further studies are needed to determine the risk factors for recurrent seizures and epilepsy after strokes and optimal treatment strategies.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College, 525 East 68th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA

    Joseph W. Doria & Peter B. Forgacs

  2. Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA

    Peter B. Forgacs

  3. Center for Clinical and Translational Science, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, 10065, USA

    Peter B. Forgacs

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Correspondence to Peter B. Forgacs.

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Doria, J.W., Forgacs, P.B. Incidence, Implications, and Management of Seizures Following Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 19, 37 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-019-0957-4

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