Seizures are a common complication in medical and surgical patients commonly arising from coexisting conditions associated with critical illness
Most seizures in the critically ill are generalized convulsions rather than focal
The majority of seizures occur in patients without a pre-existing history of seizure disorder
Common causes of seizures in the critically ill include sepsis, cardiovascular disease, metabolic abnormalities, medications, and drug intoxication/withdrawal
Metabolic abnormalities account for 30 -35% of causes
The most common metabolic abnormalities include hyponatremia, hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, uremia, and hypoglycemia
Be sure to check these labs in ICU patients with a seizure
References
Mirski MA, Varelas PN. Seizures and status epilepticus in the critically ill. Crit Care Clin 2008;24:115-147.
