Status epilepticus.

Status epilepticus is a serious medical emergency requiring immediate and rational therapy. Rapid initial management is directed at stabilization of vital functions and a quick but thorough assessment of clinical and laboratory studies to determine etiologies. Initial drug management is directed at the rapid control of status with prevention of recurrence by sustaining a therapeutic level of a long acting anticonvulsant. Few patients should remain in status more than 30 minutes after initiation of therapy.