Neurogenic pulmonary edema associated with pediatric status epilepticus.

Neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) can result from various central nervous system disorders such as brain malignancies, traumatic brain injuries, infections, and seizures. Although the pathogenesis is not completely understood, NPE creates an increase in pulmonary interstitial and alveolar fluid. In adults, it has been reported with prolonged seizure activity. In pediatric patients, pulmonary edema has rarely been reported after status epilepticus, and respiratory compromise is most often due to anticonvulsant-related respiratory depression. Treatment for NPE is largely supportive. If unrecognized, it can lead to hypoxia and respiratory arrest. We report a case of status epilepticus-related pulmonary edema in a female toddler, the youngest patient to be reported in the literature.

Duke Scholars

Author Karin Eve Reuter Rice School of Nursing