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Anoxic Tonic Seizures Due to Asthma; A Serious Complication in Adults

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

D.L. Keene*
Affiliation:
Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University
C.A. Melmed*
Affiliation:
Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University
F. Andermann*
Affiliation:
Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University
D.W. Baxter*
Affiliation:
Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University
*
Montreal Neurological Hospital and Institute, 3801 University St., Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B4
Montreal Neurological Hospital and Institute, 3801 University St., Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B4
Montreal Neurological Hospital and Institute, 3801 University St., Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B4
Montreal Neurological Hospital and Institute, 3801 University St., Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B4
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Summary:

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Anoxic tonic seizures are reported as a complication of severe asthma in two adults. The nature of these attacks can be misinterpreted. They do not indicate the presence of a recurrent seizure problem unconnected to the episodes of anoxia caused by asthma. These attacks do not respond to antiepileptic medication, but cease if the asthma can be controlled. One of our patients developed an anoxic encephalopathy and the other died. The need for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment is emphasized.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation 1981

References

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