New-onset refractory status epilepticus is an acute encephalopathy with inflammation-mediated status epilepticus characterized by an acute refractory status epilepticus, typically of the tonic-clonic type, following prodromal symptoms of confusion, fever, fatigue, headache, symptoms of gastrointestinal or upper respiratory tract infection, behavioral changes or hallucinations. Brain MRI abnormalities and abnormal findings in CSF, including pleocytosis and/or elevated protein levels, are frequently found during acute episode. Treatment-resistant epilepsy, cognitive and psychiatric impairments are usual consequences.
A spicy status: Synthetic cannabinoid (spice) use and new-onset refractory status epilepticus-A case report and review of the literature.
Babi MA, Robinson CP, Maciel CB. SAGE Open Med Case Rep. 2017;5:2050313X17745206.
In this case report, we describe a patient who developed acute psychosis and new-onset refractory status epilepticus necessitating emergent neurological life-support and prolonged admission to an intensive care unit following abuse of synthetic cannabinoids.
