Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is an urgent neurological condition with high morbidity and mortality regardless intensive health care. Early identification of SE with the rapid initiation of its treatment can influence the outcome.
The proposed concept of SE according to International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) includes an assessment of clinical diagnosis with its timeline and adequate therapeutic approach. Despite aggressive therapy the refractory SE with necessity to use general anesthesia and artificial ventilation is developed in one third of patients.
While clinical recognition of convulsive status is not difficult, the diagnosis of nonconvulsive status is not straightforward, especially in comatose patients. The article gives an overview of the status epilepticus with emphasis on therapy.