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Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
Published in: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports 4/2010

01-07-2010

Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy

Authors: Maromi Nei, Ryan Hays

Published in: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports | Issue 4/2010

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Abstract

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a significant cause of death for people with epilepsy. Recent research suggests that multiple factors may contribute and that both cardiac and respiratory mechanisms are involved. Both human and animal data suggest that specific genetic factors might play a role in some cases. Recent animal data suggest that serotonin might affect respiratory mechanisms and may be involved. Both cardiac and respiratory abnormalities are more likely with generalized tonic–clonic seizures. Uncontrolled epilepsy, particularly with generalized tonic–clonic seizures, appears to be the most highly associated modifiable risk factor for SUDEP.
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Metadata
Title
Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy
Authors
Maromi Nei
Ryan Hays
Publication date
01-07-2010
Publisher
Current Science Inc.
Published in
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports / Issue 4/2010
Print ISSN: 1528-4042
Electronic ISSN: 1534-6293
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-010-0116-4

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