Ifosfamide-induced nonconvulsive status epilepticus.

We report the first case of nonconvulsive status epilepticus as a complication of chemotherapy with the nitrogen mustard derivative ifosfamide. Our patient developed encephalopathy, upper extremity myoclonus, and a periodic, triphasic electroencephalogic pattern that resolved acutely with intravenous diazepam treatment. Since significant morbidity and mortality is associated with unrecognized status epilepticus, electroencephalogic monitoring and a trial of diazepam is indicated in encephalopathic patients with rhythmic electroencephalogic patterns while receiving treatment with ifosfamide.