Selection of antiepileptic drugs in older people.

Elderly people are one of the fastest-growing populations in the United States, and the incidence of epilepsy in older people is much higher than in other population subgroups. This age group is the most vulnerable because of the increased incidence of multiple medical comorbidities, including stroke. The diagnosis of epilepsy is extremely challenging and often delayed in this age group because of an atypical presentation.

Brugada-like electrocardiographic pattern induced by lamotrigine toxicity.

Background: Brugada syndrome, a recognized cause of sudden cardiac death, is due to a defect of cardiac sodium channels. Many pharmotherapeutic agents induce an electrocardiographic (ECG) pattern that can be confused with Brugada syndrome in patients who may not have the disease.

Case Presentation: A 22-year-old Hispanic female presented for emergency evaluation with ataxia and alterations in consciousness.

Role of intravenous levetiracetam in acute seizure management of children.

Status epilepticus is defined as a seizure lasting beyond 30 minutes. Children with intractable epilepsy undergo frequent hospital admissions secondary to status epilepticus or because of acute exacerbation of seizures. Intravenous levetiracetam became available in August 2006 for use in patients aged above 16 years.