Non-convulsive status epilepticus in older adults. Can the EEG contribute to the classification of subtypes?

• Grant number: 23/01226-4
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: June 01, 2023
• End date: May 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Gloria Maria de Almeida Souza Tedrus
• Grantee: Gloria Maria de Almeida Souza Tedrus
• Host Institution: Escola de Ciências da Vida (ECV). Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas (PUC-CAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The current definition of non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) includes clinical aspects and electroencephalogram (EEG) data. Clinical manifestations of NCSE are nonspecific, with some degree of impaired consciousness and subtle motor manifestations. The EEG is fundamental for the characterization of NCSE, however, there are still divergences in the EEG ictal pattern.Objective: Assess the EEG data and correlate it with the clinical aspects of senior patients admitted to emergency services with a hypothetical diagnosis of NCSE. Categorize the features of NCSE EEG patterns. Contribute to the classification of NCSE subtypes according to the current proposal of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE).Methodology: Approximately 120 older adults admitted to the Clinical Neurology Service of the Emergency Room of the Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas (PUC-Campinas) University Hospital with a definite diagnosis of NCSE (clinical EEG), from March 2023 to February 2024 will be assessed, including data from 50 cases assessed using the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP, Research Support Foundation of the State of São Paulo) grant (code No. 2021/09899-2). Clinical variables and EEG data will be characterized according to the NCSE subtypes of the current ILAE proposal. The variables underlying the various NCSE subtypes will be then proposed. We will also correlate the clinical-EEG aspects using parametric and non-parametric tests suitable for different situations, with a significance level of p< 0.05.Expected Results: Contribute to the characterization of NCSE EEG patterns. Better understanding of the various NCSE subtypes, particularly in older adults. Classify the clinical variables observed in older adults admitted to emergency services with acute changes to the level of consciousness, including the clinical-EEG diagnosis of NCSE. Thus, we expect to contribute with scientific and technical data in an area with large knowledge gaps. (AU)