De novo convulsive status epilepticus in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with dalfampridine. (April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Panicucci, Emilie; Cohen, Mikael; Bourg, Veronique; Rocher, Fanny; Thomas, Pierre; Lebrun, Christine
• Is Part Of: Multiple sclerosis. Volume 25:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 618
• Page End: 621
• Publication Date: 2019-04
• Subjects: De novo convulsive status epilepticus -- dalfampridine -- multiple sclerosis -- baclofen; Central nervous system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Myelin sheath -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Inflammation -- Periodicals; Multiple sclerosis -- Periodicals; Central Nervous System Diseases -- Periodicals; Demyelinating Diseases -- Periodicals; Inflammation -- Periodicals; Multiple Sclerosis -- Periodicals; Système nerveux central -- Maladies -- Périodiques; Gaine de myéline -- Maladies -- Périodiques; Inflammation (Pathologie) -- Périodiques; Sclérose en plaques -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.834005
• DOI: 10.1177/1352458518790379
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1352-4585

Abstract

Background: Dalfampridine extended release (DAL) is a broad-spectrum voltage-gated potassium channel blocker that is indicated in multiple sclerosis to improve the nerve conduction of demyelinated axons. Seizures are a known side effect of DAL, which is contraindicated in patients with a history of epilepsy. Objective: Three cases of multiple sclerosis (MS) with de novo convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) probably related to dalfampridine administration are described. Methods: No patients had a history of seizures or renal impairment. Biological tests were normal. A brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed diffuse cortical and subcortical atrophy without active inflammatory lesions. Results: All three patients presented with CSE that was attributed to DAL and so was discontinued. Conclusion: These case reports illustrate that, aside from seizures, de novo CSE is a potential complication of MS patients treated with DAL.