[A case of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) with treatment-resistant status epilepticus that was effectively treated with lamotrigine]

Rinsho Shinkeigaku. 2013;53(10):809-13. doi: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.53.809.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

A 16-year-old woman with MELAS developed fever and myoclonic epilepsy which improved with conventional anti-epileptic drugs. Since seizures recurred one month after successful treatment, the doses of phenobarbital, clonazepan, and valproate were increased. However, there was no improvement and status epilepticus continued. The addition of lamotrigine resulted in a decreased frequency and good control of seizures. This case is important, showing satisfactory results from the addition of lamotrigine for treatment-resistant status epilepticus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Resistance
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lamotrigine
  • MELAS Syndrome / complications*
  • Status Epilepticus / drug therapy*
  • Status Epilepticus / etiology
  • Triazines / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Triazines
  • Lamotrigine