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Chun MY, An H, Lee HA, Hwang S, Chung S, Kim NY, Lee HW. Clinical characteristics of seizure recurrence and epilepsy development in patients with alcohol-related seizures. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2024. [PMID: 39333025 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol withdrawal is widely recognized as a trigger for acute symptomatic seizures among individuals with chronic alcohol consumption. While most alcohol withdrawal seizures occur shortly after cessation, chronic alcohol consumption can be associated with the development of epilepsy, necessitating anti-epileptic drug (AED) therapy. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics, seizure recurrence, and epilepsy development in patients with alcohol-related seizures and to identify prognostic factors for epilepsy. METHODS In a retrospective analysis at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, 206 patients with alcohol-related seizures were examined and 15 were excluded due to preexisting epilepsy. Demographic and clinical data, including alcohol withdrawal duration, seizure recurrence, types, and comorbidities, were investigated. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the risk factors for seizure recurrence and epilepsy development. The performance of the final models was evaluated based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and validated using calibration plots and leave-one-out cross-validation. RESULTS Of the 191 patients (146 males; mean age 48.3 ± 12.1 years) with alcohol-related seizures, 99 patients (51.8%) experienced seizure recurrence and 79 patients (41.4%) developed epilepsy. Factors associated with seizure recurrence included alcohol consumption levels, occurrence of focal impaired awareness seizure, anxiety, and headache. The number of recurrent seizures, semiology, status epilepticus, electroencephalogram findings, and brain imaging findings was associated with epilepsy development. The predictive models showed strong diagnostic performance, with AUCs of 0.833 for seizure recurrence and 0.939 for epilepsy development. CONCLUSION High alcohol consumption and specific clinical and diagnostic features are significant predictors of seizure recurrence and the development of epilepsy among patients with alcohol-related seizures. These findings underscore the importance of early identification and intervention to prevent seizure recurrence and the onset of epilepsy, emphasizing the importance of AED treatment in managing these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Young Chun
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Neurology, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System, Yongin, South Korea
| | - Hyungmi An
- Institute of Convergence Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye Ah Lee
- Clinical Trial Center, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sungeun Hwang
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seungwon Chung
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Na-Young Kim
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyang Woon Lee
- Department of Neurology, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
- Neurology and Medical Science, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine and Ewha Medical Research Institute, Seoul, South Korea
- Computational Medicine, System Health Science & Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
- Artificial Intelligence Convergence Graduate Programs, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
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Kádár BK, Gajdics J, Pribék IK, Andó B, Lázár BA. Characterization of alcohol-related seizures in withdrawal syndrome. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:679-688. [PMID: 38279829 PMCID: PMC10984295 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol-related seizures (ARS) are one of the most important consequences of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). However, demographic and clinical characteristics, and furthermore, the relationship of ARS with delirium tremens (DT), have not yet been evaluated in detail. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to reveal the correlates of ARS and examine the interaction of ARS with the occurrence of DT and with the severity of AWS. METHODS In the retrospective study (Study 1) 2851 medical charts of inpatient admissions characterized by AWS and DT were listed. Demographic and clinical variables of ARS were assessed. In the follow-up study (Study 2), patients admitted with AWS without (N = 28) and with (N = 18) ARS were enrolled. Study 1 was performed between 2008 and 2023, and Study 2 was performed in 2019 in Hungary. To determine the severity of AWS, the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment Scale for Alcohol, Revised (CIWA-Ar) was used. ARS is a provoked, occasional seizure; therefore, patients with epilepsy syndrome were excluded from the two studies. Statistical analyses were performed by the means of chi-square tests, multinomial logistic regressions, mixed ANOVA, and derivation. RESULTS The occurrence of DT, the history of ARS, and somatic co-morbidities were found to be risk factors for the appearance of ARS. ARS was proved to be a risk factor for the development of DT. In the follow-up study, there was no difference in the decrease of CIWA-Ar scores between the groups. SIGNIFICANCE Our present findings support the likelihood of kindling, which is one of the most important mechanisms underlying the development of ARS, but do not directly prove its presence. Additionally, our results revealed that the severity of AWS is not influenced by the presence of ARS. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Provoked, occasional seizures during AWS are defined as ARS. In the present study, predictors and interactions of these seizures with DT-the most severe form of withdrawal-and with the severity of withdrawal were examined in retrospective and follow-up studies. The present study shows that a history of withdrawal seizures, the occurrence of DT, and somatic comorbidities are predictors of the development of seizures. Furthermore, our findings suggest that the presence of seizures does not influence the severity of withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Kata Kádár
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Janka Gajdics
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Katalin Pribék
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Andó
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bence András Lázár
- Addiction Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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Sansone G, Megevand P, Vulliémoz S, Corbetta M, Picard F, Seeck M. Long-term outcome of alcohol withdrawal seizures. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16075. [PMID: 37823698 PMCID: PMC11235997 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Alcohol withdrawal seizures (AWS) are a well-known complication of chronic alcohol abuse, but there is currently little knowledge of their long-term relapse rate and prognosis. The aims of this study were to identify risk factors for AWS recurrence and to study the overall outcome of patients after AWS. METHODS In this retrospective single-center study, we included patients who were admitted to the Emergency Department after an AWS between January 1, 2013 and August 10, 2021 and for whom an electroencephalogram (EEG) was requested. AWS relapses up until April 29, 2022 were researched. We compared history, treatment with benzodiazepines or antiseizure medications (ASMs), laboratory, EEG and computed tomography findings between patients with AWS relapse (r-AWS) and patients with no AWS relapse (nr-AWS). RESULTS A total of 199 patients were enrolled (mean age 53 ± 12 years; 78.9% men). AWS relapses occurred in 11% of patients, after a median time of 470.5 days. Brain computed tomography (n = 182) showed pathological findings in 35.7%. Risk factors for relapses were history of previous AWS (p = 0.013), skull fractures (p = 0.004) at the index AWS, and possibly epileptiform EEG abnormalities (p = 0.07). Benzodiazepines or other ASMs, taken before or after the index event, did not differ between the r-AWS and the nr-AWS group. The mortality rate was 2.9%/year of follow-up, which was 13 times higher compared to the general population. Risk factors for death were history of AWS (p < 0.001) and encephalopathic EEG (p = 0.043). CONCLUSIONS Delayed AWS relapses occur in 11% of patients and are associated with risk factors (previous AWS >24 h apart, skull fractures, and pathological EEG findings) that also increase the epilepsy risk, that is, predisposition for seizures, if not treated. Future prospective studies are mandatory to determine appropriate long-term diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, in order to reduce the risk of relapse and mortality associated with AWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Sansone
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity Hospital of Geneva & Faculty of MedicineGenevaSwitzerland
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
| | - Pierre Megevand
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity Hospital of Geneva & Faculty of MedicineGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Serge Vulliémoz
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity Hospital of Geneva & Faculty of MedicineGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Maurizio Corbetta
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
- Padova Neuroscience Center (PNC)University of PadovaPadovaItaly
- Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM)Fondazione BiomedicaPadovaItaly
| | - Fabienne Picard
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity Hospital of Geneva & Faculty of MedicineGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Margitta Seeck
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity Hospital of Geneva & Faculty of MedicineGenevaSwitzerland
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Furo H, Podichetty A, Whitted M, Zhou YY, Torres F, Brimhall BB. Association Between Opioid Use Disorder and Seizure Incidents Among Alcohol Use Disorder Patients. Subst Abuse 2023; 17:11782218231181563. [PMID: 37426877 PMCID: PMC10326460 DOI: 10.1177/11782218231181563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Many previous studies have discussed an association between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and seizure incidents. There are also case reports of seizures during opioid withdrawals. Therefore, it is possible that AUD patients may have a higher risk of seizures if they also have opioid use disorder (OUD). However, it remains unproven whether AUD patients with a dual diagnosis of OUD have higher seizure incidents, to our knowledge. This study explored seizure incidents among the patients with a dual diagnosis of AUD and OUD as well as seizures among AUD only or OUD only patients. This study utilized de-identified data from 30 777 928 hospital inpatient encounters at 948 healthcare systems over 4 years (9/1/2018-8/31/2022) from the Vizient® Clinical Database for this study. Applying the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) diagnostic codes, AUD (1 953 575), OUD (768 982), and seizure (1 209 471) encounters were retrieved from the database to examine the effects of OUD on seizure incidence among AUD patients. This study also stratified patient encounters for demographic factors such as gender, age, and race, as well as the Vizient-categorized primary payer. Greatest gender differences were identified among AUD followed by OUD, and seizure patient groups. The mean age for seizure incidents was 57.6 years, while that of AUD was 54.7 years, and OUD 48.9 years. The greatest proportion of patients in all 3 groups were White, followed by Black, with Medicare being the most common primary payer in all 3 categories. Seizure incidents were statistically more common (P < .001, chi-square) in patients with a dual diagnosis of AUD and OUD (8.07%) compared to those with AUD only (7.55%). The patients with the dual diagnosis had a higher odd ratio than those with AUD only or OUD only. These findings across more than 900 health systems provide a greater understanding of seizure risks. Consequently, this information may help in triaging AUD and OUD patients in certain higher-risk demographic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Furo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral
Sciences, The University of Texas Health at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory
Medicine, The University of Texas Health at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics,
State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, State
University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ankita Podichetty
- McWilliams School of Biomedical
Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX,
USA
| | - Marisa Whitted
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory
Medicine, The University of Texas Health at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Yi Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory
Medicine, The University of Texas Health at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Francis Torres
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory
Medicine, University Health System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Bradley B. Brimhall
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory
Medicine, The University of Texas Health at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Aizer AA, Lamba N, Ahluwalia MS, Aldape K, Boire A, Brastianos PK, Brown PD, Camidge DR, Chiang VL, Davies MA, Hu LS, Huang RY, Kaufmann T, Kumthekar P, Lam K, Lee EQ, Lin NU, Mehta M, Parsons M, Reardon DA, Sheehan J, Soffietti R, Tawbi H, Weller M, Wen PY. Brain metastases: A Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) consensus review on current management and future directions. Neuro Oncol 2022; 24:1613-1646. [PMID: 35762249 PMCID: PMC9527527 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noac118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases occur commonly in patients with advanced solid malignancies. Yet, less is known about brain metastases than cancer-related entities of similar incidence. Advances in oncologic care have heightened the importance of intracranial management. Here, in this consensus review supported by the Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO), we review the landscape of brain metastases with particular attention to management approaches and ongoing efforts with potential to shape future paradigms of care. Each coauthor carried an area of expertise within the field of brain metastases and initially composed, edited, or reviewed their specific subsection of interest. After each subsection was accordingly written, multiple drafts of the manuscript were circulated to the entire list of authors for group discussion and feedback. The hope is that the these consensus guidelines will accelerate progress in the understanding and management of patients with brain metastases, and highlight key areas in need of further exploration that will lead to dedicated trials and other research investigations designed to advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayal A Aizer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nayan Lamba
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Radiation Oncology Program, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Kenneth Aldape
- Laboratory of Pathology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Adrienne Boire
- Department of Neurology, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Priscilla K Brastianos
- Departments of Neuro-Oncology and Medical Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paul D Brown
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - D Ross Camidge
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Veronica L Chiang
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Radiation Oncology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michael A Davies
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Leland S Hu
- Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Division, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Raymond Y Huang
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Priya Kumthekar
- Department of Neurology at The Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University and The Malnati Brain Tumor Institute at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Keng Lam
- Department of Neurology, Kaiser Permanente, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Eudocia Q Lee
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nancy U Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Minesh Mehta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Michael Parsons
- Departments of Oncology and Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David A Reardon
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jason Sheehan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Riccardo Soffietti
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Hussein Tawbi
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael Weller
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Y Wen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Kassie AM, Abate BB, Kassaw MW, Getie A, Wondmieneh A, Tegegne KM, Ahmed M. Quality of life and its associated factors among epileptic patients attending public hospitals in North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247336. [PMID: 33621251 PMCID: PMC7901738 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is thought to be caused by witchcraft, evil spirit, and God's punishment for sins in many developing countries. As a result, people with epilepsy and their families usually suffer from stigma, discrimination, depression, and other psychiatric problems. Thus, this study aimed to assess the quality of life and its associated factors among epileptic patients attending public hospitals in North Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia. METHODS An institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed in this study. A simple random sampling technique was utilized. Health-related quality of life was measured based on the total score of the Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory (QOLIE-31) instrument. Data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 statistical package and exported to SPSS Version 20 for further analysis. Linear regression models were used to assess the relationship between quality of life and the independent variables. Statistically significant values were declared at a P-value of < 0.05. RESULTS A total of 395 patients participated in the study making the response rate 98.5%. The mean age of the participants was 32.39 ±10.71 years. More than half, 199 (50.4%) of epileptic patients had an overall weighted average health related quality of life score of mean and above. Male sex (B = 4.34, 95%CI, 0.41, 8.27, P = 0.03), higher educational status (B = 7.18, 95%CI, 1.39, 13.00, P = 0.015) and age at onset of epilepsy (B = 0.237, 95%CI, 0.02, 0.45, P = 0.035) were associated with increased health related quality of life score. On the other hand, family history of epilepsy (B = -4.78, 95%CI,-9.24,-0.33, P = 0.035), uncontrolled seizure (B = -11.08, 95%CI,-15.11,-7.05, P < 0.001), more than 5 pre-treatment number of seizures (B = -4.86, 95%CI,-8.91,-0.81, P = 0.019), poor drug adherence (B = -11.65, 95%CI,-16.06,-7.23, P < 0.001), having moderate (B = -4.526, 95%CI,-8.59,-0.46, P = 0.029) to sever (B = -12.84, 95%CI,-18.30,-7.37, P < 0.001) anxiety and depression, believing that epilepsy is caused by evil spirit (B = -7.04, 95%CI,-11.46,-2.61, P = 0.002), drinking alcohol (B = -5.42, 95%CI,-10.72,-0.13, P = 0.045), and having other co-morbidities (B = -9.35, 95%CI,-14.35,-4.36, P < 0.001) were significantly negatively associated with the health related quality of life score among epileptic patients. CONCLUSIONS Only around half of the epileptic patients have a good health-related quality of life. In addition, multiple variables including family history, uncontrolled seizure, and poor drug adherence were associated with quality of life among epileptic patients. Hence, targeting these variables in epilepsy management is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Biruk Beletew Abate
- School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Mesfin Wudu Kassaw
- School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Addisu Getie
- School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Adam Wondmieneh
- School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Kindie Mekuria Tegegne
- School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Ahmed
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Amhara, Ethiopia
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Yitayih Y, Feyissa GT, Adorjan K, Soboka M. Effectiveness of symptom-triggered regimen versus fixed-dosage regimen of benzodiazepine treatment for alcohol detoxification: a systematic review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2020; 18:1064-1069. [PMID: 32813360 DOI: 10.11124/jbisrir-d-19-00152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of a symptom-triggered regimen versus a fixed-dosage regimen of benzodiazepine treatment for alcohol detoxification. INTRODUCTION Patients with alcohol use disorder who suddenly decrease their alcohol consumption or abstain completely may experience alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Adequate treatment of detoxification can relieve the patient's distress, prevent the development of more serious symptoms and forestall collective effects that might worsen future withdrawals. INCLUSION CRITERIA The review will consider studies that include people with alcohol withdrawal syndrome who are taking benzodiazepine treatment in an inpatient setting. Studies of people with alcohol withdrawal syndrome who are under the age of 18 will be excluded. This review will exclude studies of people with alcohol withdrawal syndrome who are non-verbal (e.g. stupor due to head injury) or have a history of seizure. Studies published in English will be included. METHODS An initial limited search of MEDLINE and CINAHL was undertaken to identify articles. The text words contained in the titles and abstracts, and index terms were used to develop a full search strategy. The search strategy, including all identified keywords and index terms, will be adapted for each included information source. Studies will be pooled for statistical meta-analysis. Effect sizes will be expressed as odds ratios (for categorical data) or weighted mean differences (for continuous data), and their 95% confidence intervals will be calculated for analysis. The heterogeneity will be assessed using the I test and chi-squared test. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO CRD42018115777.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimenu Yitayih
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Garumma Tolu Feyissa
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Kristina Adorjan
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Psychiatric Phenomics and Genomics (IPPG), Medical Center of the University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Center for International Health, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Matiwos Soboka
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Derivation and validation of a multivariable model, the alcohol withdrawal triage tool (AWTT), for predicting severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 209:107943. [PMID: 32172129 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol withdrawal and its consequences are a common concern for the large numbers of patients who present to emergency departments (EDs) with alcohol use disorders. While the majority of patients who go on to develop alcohol withdrawal experience only mild symptoms, a small proportion will experience seizures or delirium tremens. The aim of this study was to develop a tool to predict the need for hospital admission in patients at risk for alcohol withdrawal using only objective criteria that are typically available during the course of an ED visit. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study at an academic medical center. Our primary outcome was severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome (SAWS), which we defined as a composite of delirium tremens, seizure, or use of high benzodiazepine doses. All candidate predictors were abstracted from the electronic health record. A logistic regression model was constructed using the derivation dataset to create the alcohol withdrawal triage tool (AWTT). RESULTS Of the 2038 study patients, 408 20.0 %) developed SAWS. We identified eight independent predictors of SAWS. Each of the predictors in the regression model was assigned one point. Summing the points for each predictor generated the AWTT score. An AWTT score of 3 or greater was defined as high risk based on sensitivity of 90 % and specificity of 47 % for predicting SAWS. CONCLUSIONS We were able to identify a set of objective, timely, independent predictors of SAWS. The predictors were used to create a novel clinical prediction rule, the AWTT.
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Wolf C, Curry A, Nacht J, Simpson SA. Management of Alcohol Withdrawal in the Emergency Department: Current Perspectives. Open Access Emerg Med 2020; 12:53-65. [PMID: 32256131 PMCID: PMC7093658 DOI: 10.2147/oaem.s235288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a common, heterogenous, and life-threatening complication of alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD is a leading cause of worldwide mortality, and many patients with AUD will develop AWS during their ED course. This review summarizes the epidemiology, pathology, and management of AWS and AUD in the emergency setting. The time course of AWS and its impact on ED treatment is emphasized. Once AWS is diagnosed, symptom-triggered benzodiazepine administration remains the most commonly provided treatment but may not be appropriate for patients with significant medical or psychiatric comorbidity or pending discharge. In these cases, ED clinicians may consider short courses of barbiturates or alternative regimens based on novel anticonvulsants. Specific treatment protocols are enumerated for clinical practice. Finally, emergency providers must not only manage acute patients' AWS but also lay the foundation for successful treatment of AUD. An approach to the disposition of the patient with AUD is presented. The authors examine shortcomings in the extant literature and suggest opportunities for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Wolf
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ashley Curry
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jacob Nacht
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Scott A Simpson
- Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Benson G, Roberts N, McCallum J, McPherson A. Severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome: review of the literature. DRUGS AND ALCOHOL TODAY 2019. [DOI: 10.1108/dat-10-2018-0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify published literature from a general hospital setting that may highlight variables implicated in the development of severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome (SAWS) in patients who have alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS).
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review was carried out using the electronic databases: MEDLINE, Medline in Process, Cinahl, Embase and PsycINFO from 1989 to 2017. The focus of this search was on English language studies of individuals over 16 years admitted to general hospital with ADS, delirium tremens (DTs), alcohol-related seizure (ARS) or alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS).
Findings
Of the 205 studies screened, eight met the criteria for inclusion. Six studies were quantitative retrospective cohort and two were retrospective case-control. Six studies investigated risk factors associated with DTs, one examined SAWS and one alcohol kindling. Descriptive analysis was performed to summarise the empirical evidence from studies were 22 statistically significant risk factors were found; including the reason for admission to hospital, daily alcohol consumption, previous DTs and prior ARS. The last two factors mentioned appeared in two studies.
Research limitations/implications
Further research should consider the quality and completeness of the alcohol history data and competence of staff generating the data in retrospective studies.
Originality/value
The paper suggests that the factors linked to SAWS development from the literature may not fully explain why some individuals who have ADS develop SAWS, and others do not.
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11
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Niriayo YL, Mamo A, Kassa TD, Asgedom SW, Atey TM, Gidey K, Demoz GT, Ibrahim S. Treatment outcome and associated factors among patients with epilepsy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17354. [PMID: 30478263 PMCID: PMC6255833 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35906-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a major public health problem worldwide. Despite multiple drug therapies, people with epilepsy continue to have frequent seizures. There is a dearth of data on epilepsy treatment outcome and associated factors in our setting. Therefore, the aim of this was to assess treatment outcome and associated factors among epileptic patients on follow up at the neurologic clinic of Ayder comprehensive specialized hospital, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on randomly selected epileptic patients. Data were collected through patient interview and review of medical records. Epilepsy treatment outcome was evaluated in terms of seizure control status in the last one year follow up period. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of treatment outcome. A total of 270 patients were included. Of whom, 46.6% had controlled seizures. Whereas, 38.5%, 8.8%, and 5.9% had experienced seizure attacks 1-5 times, 6-10 times, and greater than 10 times, respectively. Alcohol consumption [adjusted odds ratio [(AOR): 14.87, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.25-68.11], negative medication belief [AOR: 3.0, 95%CI: 1.31-6.71], low medication adherence [AOR:11.52, 95%CI: 3.25-40.82], and presence of comorbidities [AOR: 10.35, 95%CI: 4.40-24.40] were predictors of uncontrolled seizure. Our finding revealed that more than half of the epileptic patients had uncontrolled seizure. Epileptic patients with a negative medication belief, comorbidities, low medication adherence, and those who consume alcohol were more likely to have uncontrolled seizure. Therefore, more emphasis should be given to these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yirga Legesse Niriayo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia.
| | - Abraham Mamo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Dessale Kassa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Weldegebreal Asgedom
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfay Mahari Atey
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Kidu Gidey
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Gebre Teklemariam Demoz
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice Unit, Departments of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Axum University, Axum, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Seid Ibrahim
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
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12
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The seizure precipitating effect of alcohol. Epilepsy Res 2018; 143:82-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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13
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Abstract
This article highlights the emerging therapeutic potential of specific epigenetic modulators as promising antiepileptogenic or disease-modifying agents for curing epilepsy. Currently, there is an unmet need for antiepileptogenic agents that truly prevent the development of epilepsy in people at risk. There is strong evidence that epigenetic signaling, which exerts high fidelity regulation of gene expression, plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of epileptogenesis and chronic epilepsy. These modifications are not hard-wired into the genome and are constantly reprogrammed by environmental influences. The potential epigenetic mechanisms, including histone modifications, DNA methylation, microRNA-based transcriptional control, and bromodomain reading activity, can drastically alter the neuronal gene expression profile by exerting their summative effects in a coordinated fashion. Such an epigenetic intervention appears more rational strategy for preventing epilepsy because it targets the primary pathway that initially triggers the numerous downstream cellular and molecular events mediating epileptogenesis. Among currently approved epigenetic drugs, the majority are anticancer drugs with well-established profiles in clinical trials and practice. Evidence from preclinical studies supports the premise that these drugs may be applied to a wide range of brain disorders. Targeting histone deacetylation by inhibiting histone deacetylase enzymes appears to be one promising epigenetic therapy since certain inhibitors have been shown to prevent epileptogenesis in animal models. However, developing neuronal specific epigenetic modulators requires rational, pathophysiology-based optimization to efficiently intercept the upstream pathways in epileptogenesis. Overall, epigenetic agents have been well positioned as new frontier tools towards the national goal of curing epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iyan Younus
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Doodipala Samba Reddy
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77807, USA.
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14
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Heo K, Cho YJ, Eun SH, Lim SC, Lee J, Song P. Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome and Alcohol Withdrawal Seizure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.17340/jkna.2017.3.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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15
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Maldonado JR. Novel Algorithms for the Prophylaxis and Management of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndromes–Beyond Benzodiazepines. Crit Care Clin 2017; 33:559-599. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccc.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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16
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Rehm J, Gmel GE, Gmel G, Hasan OSM, Imtiaz S, Popova S, Probst C, Roerecke M, Room R, Samokhvalov AV, Shield KD, Shuper PA. The relationship between different dimensions of alcohol use and the burden of disease-an update. Addiction 2017; 112:968-1001. [PMID: 28220587 PMCID: PMC5434904 DOI: 10.1111/add.13757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 669] [Impact Index Per Article: 95.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Alcohol use is a major contributor to injuries, mortality and the burden of disease. This review updates knowledge on risk relations between dimensions of alcohol use and health outcomes to be used in global and national Comparative Risk Assessments (CRAs). METHODS Systematic review of reviews and meta-analyses on alcohol consumption and health outcomes attributable to alcohol use. For dimensions of exposure: volume of alcohol use, blood alcohol concentration and patterns of drinking, in particular heavy drinking occasions were studied. For liver cirrhosis, quality of alcohol was additionally considered. For all outcomes (mortality and/or morbidity): cause of death and disease/injury categories based on International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes used in global CRAs; harm to others. RESULTS In total, 255 reviews and meta-analyses were identified. Alcohol use was found to be linked causally to many disease and injury categories, with more than 40 ICD-10 three-digit categories being fully attributable to alcohol. Most partially attributable disease categories showed monotonic relationships with volume of alcohol use: the more alcohol consumed, the higher the risk of disease or death. Exceptions were ischaemic diseases and diabetes, with curvilinear relationships, and with beneficial effects of light to moderate drinking in people without heavy irregular drinking occasions. Biological pathways suggest an impact of heavy drinking occasions on additional diseases; however, the lack of medical epidemiological studies measuring this dimension of alcohol use precluded an in-depth analysis. For injuries, except suicide, blood alcohol concentration was the most important dimension of alcohol use. Alcohol use caused marked harm to others, which has not yet been researched sufficiently. CONCLUSIONS Research since 2010 confirms the importance of alcohol use as a risk factor for disease and injuries; for some health outcomes, more than one dimension of use needs to be considered. Epidemiological studies should include measurement of heavy drinking occasions in line with biological knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS)University of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Dalla Lana School of Public HealthUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Gerhard E. Gmel
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Alcohol Treatment CenterLausanne University HospitalLausanneSwitzerland
- Addiction SwitzerlandLausanneSwitzerland
- University of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - Gerrit Gmel
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Omer S. M. Hasan
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Sameer Imtiaz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS)University of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Svetlana Popova
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS)University of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Dalla Lana School of Public HealthUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Factor‐Inwentash Faculty of Social WorkUniversity of TorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Charlotte Probst
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Michael Roerecke
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Dalla Lana School of Public HealthUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Robin Room
- Centre for Alcohol Policy ResearchLa Trobe UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and DrugsStockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Andriy V. Samokhvalov
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical Science (IMS)University of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Kevin D. Shield
- Section of Cancer SurveillanceInternational Agency for Research on CancerLyonFrance
| | - Paul A. Shuper
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMHTorontoOntarioCanada
- Dalla Lana School of Public HealthUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
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17
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Rehm J, Gmel GE, Gmel G, Hasan OSM, Imtiaz S, Popova S, Probst C, Roerecke M, Room R, Samokhvalov AV, Shield KD, Shuper PA. The relationship between different dimensions of alcohol use and the burden of disease-an update. ADDICTION (ABINGDON, ENGLAND) 2017. [PMID: 28220587 DOI: 10.1111/add.13757.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Alcohol use is a major contributor to injuries, mortality and the burden of disease. This review updates knowledge on risk relations between dimensions of alcohol use and health outcomes to be used in global and national Comparative Risk Assessments (CRAs). METHODS Systematic review of reviews and meta-analyses on alcohol consumption and health outcomes attributable to alcohol use. For dimensions of exposure: volume of alcohol use, blood alcohol concentration and patterns of drinking, in particular heavy drinking occasions were studied. For liver cirrhosis, quality of alcohol was additionally considered. For all outcomes (mortality and/or morbidity): cause of death and disease/injury categories based on International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes used in global CRAs; harm to others. RESULTS In total, 255 reviews and meta-analyses were identified. Alcohol use was found to be linked causally to many disease and injury categories, with more than 40 ICD-10 three-digit categories being fully attributable to alcohol. Most partially attributable disease categories showed monotonic relationships with volume of alcohol use: the more alcohol consumed, the higher the risk of disease or death. Exceptions were ischaemic diseases and diabetes, with curvilinear relationships, and with beneficial effects of light to moderate drinking in people without heavy irregular drinking occasions. Biological pathways suggest an impact of heavy drinking occasions on additional diseases; however, the lack of medical epidemiological studies measuring this dimension of alcohol use precluded an in-depth analysis. For injuries, except suicide, blood alcohol concentration was the most important dimension of alcohol use. Alcohol use caused marked harm to others, which has not yet been researched sufficiently. CONCLUSIONS Research since 2010 confirms the importance of alcohol use as a risk factor for disease and injuries; for some health outcomes, more than one dimension of use needs to be considered. Epidemiological studies should include measurement of heavy drinking occasions in line with biological knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerhard E Gmel
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Alcohol Treatment Center, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland.,University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Gerrit Gmel
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Omer S M Hasan
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sameer Imtiaz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Svetlana Popova
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Charlotte Probst
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Roerecke
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robin Room
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andriy V Samokhvalov
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science (IMS), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kevin D Shield
- Section of Cancer Surveillance, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Paul A Shuper
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, CAMH, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Jesse S, Bråthen G, Ferrara M, Keindl M, Ben-Menachem E, Tanasescu R, Brodtkorb E, Hillbom M, Leone M, Ludolph A. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome: mechanisms, manifestations, and management. Acta Neurol Scand 2017; 135:4-16. [PMID: 27586815 PMCID: PMC6084325 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a well‐known condition occurring after intentional or unintentional abrupt cessation of heavy/constant drinking in patients suffering from alcohol use disorders (AUDs). AUDs are common in neurological departments with patients admitted for coma, epileptic seizures, dementia, polyneuropathy, and gait disturbances. Nonetheless, diagnosis and treatment are often delayed until dramatic symptoms occur. The purpose of this review is to increase the awareness of the early clinical manifestations of AWS and the appropriate identification and management of this important condition in a neurological setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Jesse
- Department of Neurology; University Ulm; Ulm Germany
| | - G. Bråthen
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology; Trondheim University Hospital; Trondheim Norway
- Department of Neuroscience; Norwegian University of Science and Technology; Trondheim Norway
| | - M. Ferrara
- Unit of Neurology; IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza; San Giovanni Rotondo Italy
| | - M. Keindl
- Danube University Krems; Krems Austria
| | - E. Ben-Menachem
- Institute of Clinical Neuroscience and Neurophysiology; SU/Sahlgrenska Hospital; Gothenburg Sweden
| | - R. Tanasescu
- Department of Neurology; Neurosurgery and Psychiatry; University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila; Colentina Hospital; Bucharest Romania
- Academic Clinical Neurology; Division of Clinical Neuroscience; University of Nottingham; Nottingham UK
| | - E. Brodtkorb
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology; Trondheim University Hospital; Trondheim Norway
- Department of Neuroscience; Norwegian University of Science and Technology; Trondheim Norway
| | - M. Hillbom
- Department of Neurology; Oulu University Hospital; Oulu Finland
| | - M.A. Leone
- Unit of Neurology; IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza; San Giovanni Rotondo Italy
| | - A.C. Ludolph
- Department of Neurology; University Ulm; Ulm Germany
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19
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Fu X, Guo Z, Gao C, Chu Q, Li J, Ma H, Shu G. Long-Term Alcohol-Induced Activation of Mammalian Target of Rapamycin is a Key Risk Factor of Epilepsy. Med Sci Monit 2016; 22:3975-3980. [PMID: 27779177 PMCID: PMC5091218 DOI: 10.12659/msm.897018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to determine whether activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key epileptogenic mechanism in the development of alcohol-related seizure. MATERIAL AND METHODS C57BL/6 mice were administered 10% ethanol in drinking water for 9 weeks. Video-electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring was then used to assess seizure frequency after alcohol and rapamycin treatment. In addition, mouse neuroblastoma NG108-15 cells were treated ethanol for 3 days and subsequently treated with AKT inhibitor LY294002 for 2-12 h. The in vitro kinase assay was performed for determining mTOR activity. Western blot analysis was used to determine the expression of P-AKT, P-S6K, and P-S6. RESULTS Long-term ethanol treatment markedly increased the seizure frequency of C57/BL6 mice over time. Moreover, ethanol treatment increased the expression level of P-S6 over time. Ethanol-induced seizure can be reversed by rapamycin. In addition, the in vitro kinase assay showed mTOR activity was activated by ethanol. Compared with NG108-15 cells treated without both ethanol and LY294002, ethanol increased the expression level of P-AKT, P-S6K, and P-S6, whereas LY294002 had opposite effects on expression levels of these proteins. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that long-term alcohol intake increases the risk of epilepsy via activation of mTOR signaling. Moreover, ethanol-induced mTOR activation may be dependent on the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. The key molecules involved in AKT-mTOR signaling pathway may serve as potential targets in the treatment of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Fu
- Cadre Ward 2, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zhe Guo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Chang Gao
- Cadre Ward 2, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Qinying Chu
- Cadre Ward 2, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Cadre Ward 2, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Hongying Ma
- Cadre Ward 2, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Gangming Shu
- Cadre Ward 2, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
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20
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Lifestyle factors, psychiatric and neurologic comorbidities, and drug use associated with incident seizures among adult patients with depression: a population-based nested case–control study. Eur J Epidemiol 2016; 31:1113-1122. [DOI: 10.1007/s10654-016-0156-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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21
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Sachdeva A, Choudhary M, Chandra M. Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: Benzodiazepines and Beyond. J Clin Diagn Res 2015; 9:VE01-VE07. [PMID: 26500991 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2015/13407.6538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol dependence is an increasing and pervasive problem. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are a part of alcohol dependence syndrome and are commonly encountered in general hospital settings, in most of the departments. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome ranges from mild to severe. The severe complicated alcohol withdrawal may present with hallucinations, seizures or delirium tremens. Benzodiazepines have the largest and the best evidence base in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal, and are considered the gold standard. Others, such as anticonvulsants, barbiturates, adrenergic drugs, and GABA agonists have been tried and have evidence. Supportive care and use of vitamins is essential in the management. Symptom triggered regime is favoured over fixed tapering dose regime, although monitoring through scales is cumbersome. This article aims to review the evidence base for appropriate clinical management of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome. We searched Pubmed for articles published in English on 'Alcohol withdrawal syndrome' in humans during the last 10 years. A total of 1182 articles came up. Articles not relevant to clinical utility and management were excluded based on the titles and abstract available. Full text articles, meta-analyses, systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials were obtained from this list and were considered for review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Sachdeva
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, ESIC Medical College and Hospital , Faridabad, Haryana, India
| | - Mona Choudhary
- Senior Resident, Department of Psychiatry and Drug De-addiction, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital , New Delhi, India
| | - Mina Chandra
- Chief Medical Officer (NFSG), Department of Psychiatry and Drug De-addiction, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital , New Delhi, India
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22
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Irmen F, Wehner T, Lemieux L. Do reflex seizures and spontaneous seizures form a continuum? - triggering factors and possible common mechanisms. Seizure 2014; 25:72-9. [PMID: 25645641 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2014.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Revised: 12/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent changes in the understanding and classification of reflex seizures have fuelled a debate on triggering mechanisms of seizures and their conceptual organization. Previous studies and patient reports have listed extrinsic and intrinsic triggers, albeit their multifactorial and dynamic nature is poorly understood. This paper aims to review literature on extrinsic and intrinsic seizure triggers and to discuss common mechanisms among them. Among self-reported seizure triggers, emotional stress is most frequently named. Reflex seizures are typically associated with extrinsic sensory triggers; however, intrinsic cognitive or proprioceptive triggers have also been assessed. The identification of a trigger underlying a seizure may be more difficult if it is intrinsic and complex, and if triggering mechanisms are multifactorial. Therefore, since observability of triggers varies and triggers are also found in non-reflex seizures, the present concept of reflex seizures may be questioned. We suggest the possibility of a conceptual continuum between reflex and spontaneous seizures rather than a dichotomy and discuss evidence to the notion that to some extent most seizures might be triggered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Irmen
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Wehner
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom; National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Louis Lemieux
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom.
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23
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Maldonado JR, Sher Y, Ashouri JF, Hills-Evans K, Swendsen H, Lolak S, Miller AC. The "Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale" (PAWSS): systematic literature review and pilot study of a new scale for the prediction of complicated alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Alcohol 2014; 48:375-90. [PMID: 24657098 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2013] [Revised: 01/22/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, no screening tools for alcohol withdrawal syndromes (AWS) have been validated in the medically ill. Although several tools quantify the severity of AWS (e.g., Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol [CIWA]), none identify subjects at risk of AWS, thus missing the opportunity for timely prophylaxis. Moreover, there are no validated tools for the prediction of complicated (i.e., moderate to severe) AWS in the medically ill. OBJECTIVES Our goals were (1) to conduct a systematic review of the published literature on AWS to identify clinical factors associated with the development of AWS, (2) to use the identified factors to develop a tool for the prediction of alcohol withdrawal among patients at risk, and (3) to conduct a pilot study to assess the validity of the tool. METHODS For the creation of the Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale (PAWSS), we conducted a systematic literature search using PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses) guidelines for clinical factors associated with the development of AWS, using PubMed, PsychInfo, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Databases. Eligibility criteria included: (i) manuscripts dealing with human subjects, age 18 years or older, (ii) manuscripts directly addressing descriptions of AWS or its predisposing factors, including case reports, naturalistic case descriptions, and all types of clinical trials (e.g., randomized, single-blind, or open label studies), (iii) manuscripts describing characteristics of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and (iv) manuscripts dealing with animal data (which were considered only if they directly dealt with variables described in humans). Obtained data were used to develop the Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale, in order to assist in the identification of patients at risk for complicated AWS. A pilot study was conducted to assess the new tool's psychometric qualities on patients admitted to a general inpatient medicine unit over a 2-week period, who agreed to participate in the study. Blind to PAWSS results, a separate group of researchers retrospectively examined the medical records for evidence of AWS. RESULTS The search produced 2802 articles describing factors potentially associated with increased risk for AWS, increased severity of withdrawal symptoms, and potential characteristics differentiating subjects with various forms of AWS. Of these, 446 articles met inclusion criteria and underwent further scrutiny, yielding a total of 233 unique articles describing factors predictive of AWS. A total of 10 items were identified as correlated with complicated AWS (i.e., withdrawal hallucinosis, withdrawal-related seizures, and delirium tremens) and used to construct the PAWSS. During the pilot study, a total of 68 subjects underwent evaluation with PAWSS. In this pilot sample the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of PAWSS were 100%, using the threshold score of 4. DISCUSSION The results of the literature search identified 10 items which may be correlated with risk for complicated AWS. These items were assembled into a tool to assist in the identification of patients at risk: PAWSS. The results of this pilot study suggest that PAWSS may be useful in identifying risk of complicated AWS in medically ill, hospitalized individuals. PAWSS is the first validated tool for the prediction of severe AWS in the medically ill and its use may aid in the early identification of patients at risk for complicated AWS, allowing for prophylaxis against AWS before severe alcohol withdrawal syndromes develop.
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Affiliation(s)
- José R Maldonado
- Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Surgery, & Emergency Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Yelizaveta Sher
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Judith F Ashouri
- Internal Medicine (Rheumatology), University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Heavenly Swendsen
- Psychosomatic Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sermsak Lolak
- Psychiatry, George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
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Samokhvalov AV, Rehm J. Premature mortality in patients with epilepsy. Lancet 2014; 383:511. [PMID: 24506902 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(14)60179-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andriy V Samokhvalov
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, M5V3R5, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, M5V3R5, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Klinische Psychologie and Psychotherapie, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Sandeep P, Cherian A, Iype T, Chitra P, Suresh MK, Ajitha KC. Clinical profile of patients with nascent alcohol related seizures. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2013; 16:530-3. [PMID: 24339573 PMCID: PMC3841594 DOI: 10.4103/0972-2327.120454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2013] [Revised: 07/07/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study is to characterize the clinical profile of patients with alcohol related seizures (ARS) and to identify the prevalence of idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) in the same. Materials and Methods: 100 consecutive male patients presenting to a tertiary care center in South India with new onset ARS were analyzed with alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) score. All underwent 19 channel digital scalp electroencephalography (EEG) and at least computed tomography (CT) scan. Results: A total of 27 patients (27%) who had cortical atrophy on CT had a mean duration of alcohol intake of 23.62 years compared with 14.55 years in patients with no cortical atrophy (P < 0.001). Twenty-two patients (22%) had clustering in the current episode of whom 18 had cortical atrophy. Nearly, 88% patients had generalized tonic clonic seizures while 12% who had partial seizures underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which identified frontal focal cortical dysplasia in one. Mean lifetime duration of alcohol intake in patients presenting with seizures within 6 hours (6H-gp) of intake of alcohol was significantly lower (P = 0.029). One patient in the 6H-gp with no withdrawal symptoms had EEG evidence for IGE and had a lower AUDIT score compared with the rest. Conclusion: CT evidence of cortical atrophy is related to the duration of alcohol intake and portends an increased risk for clustering. Partial seizures can be a presenting feature of ARS and those patients may benefit from MRI to identify underlying symptomatic localization related epilepsy (8.3% of partial seizures). IGE is more likely in patients presenting with ARS within first 6 hours especially if they do not have alcohol withdrawal symptoms and scalp EEG is helpful to identify this small subgroup (~1%) who may require long-term anti-epileptic medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Sandeep
- Department of Neurology, Government Medical College, Trivandrum, Kerala, India
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Abstract
Alcohol withdrawal is commonly encountered in general hospital settings. It forms a major part of referrals received by a consultation-liaison psychiatrist. This article aims to review the evidence base for appropriate clinical management of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome. We searched Pubmed for articles published in English on pharmacological management of alcohol withdrawal in humans with no limit on the date of publication. Articles not relevant to clinical management were excluded based on the titles and abstract available. Full-text articles were obtained from this list and the cross-references. There were four meta-analyses, 9 systematic reviews, 26 review articles and other type of publications like textbooks. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a clinical diagnosis. It may vary in severity. Complicated alcohol withdrawal presents with hallucinations, seizures or delirium tremens. Benzodiazepines have the best evidence base in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal, followed by anticonvulsants. Clinical institutes withdrawal assessment-alcohol revised is useful with pitfalls in patients with medical comorbidities. Evidence favors an approach of symptom-monitored loading for severe withdrawals where an initial dose is guided by risk factors for complicated withdrawals and further dosing may be guided by withdrawal severity. Supportive care and use of vitamins is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivanand Kattimani
- Department of Psychiatry, Regional Deaddiction Center, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Balaji Bharadwaj
- Department of Psychiatry, Regional Deaddiction Center, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
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Rolland B, Deheul S, Danel T, Bordet R, Cottencin O. A Case of De novo Seizures Following a Probable Interaction of High-Dose Baclofen with Alcohol. Alcohol Alcohol 2012; 47:577-80. [DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/ags076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
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Providência R, Silva J, Mota P, Nascimento J, Leitão-Marques A. Transient loss of consciousness in young adults. Int J Cardiol 2011; 152:139-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2011.07.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Eyer F, Schreckenberg M, Hecht D, Adorjan K, Schuster T, Felgenhauer N, Pfab R, Strubel T, Zilker T. Carbamazepine and Valproate as Adjuncts in the Treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Alcohol Alcohol 2011; 46:177-84. [DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agr005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Prevalence of epilepsy and alcohol-related risk in Zayul County, Tibet Autonomous Region in China: an initial survey. Epilepsy Behav 2010; 19:635-8. [PMID: 20961814 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2010.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2010] [Revised: 08/22/2010] [Accepted: 09/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to establish the prevalence rates of epilepsy and alcohol-related risk and the treatment gap in Zayul County, Tibet Autonomous Region, to evaluate the diagnosis and treatment status of these patients. METHODS A door-to-door epidemiological survey was conducted among all the people living in the towns of Shang Zayul and Xia Zayul. A screening questionnaire for epilepsy was used. Clinical and sociodemographic data were collected from patients confirmed to have epilepsy. An audit was used for patients with epilepsy who had a definite history of alcohol consumption and drinking habit change. RESULTS A total of 7669 people were investigated. Of these, 180 were confirmed to have epilepsy, which was active in 175. Lifetime prevalence was estimated to be 23.5 per 1000 in this population. None of the patients with active epilepsy had received any reasonable antiepileptic therapy in the week before the survey (treatment gap). Ninety-six percent of patients with epilepsy aged between 20 and 60 drank alcoholic beverages. However, in only 25 (13.9%) patients with epilepsy was the epilepsy related to alcohol; most patients (80.6%) had no definite causes. There were no local health workers who received any formal training on epilepsy before, nor did the local health agencies provide any conventional antiepileptic drugs. CONCLUSION The prevalence rates of epilepsy in the towns of Shang Zayul and Xia Zayul of the Tibet Autonomous Region were relatively higher than in other areas. The alcohol-related health problems cannot be ignored. This serious situation and the large treatment gap indicate a pressing need for medical, financial and social support in this population.
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Abstract
This article reviews the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndromes in the intensive care unit as well as the literature on the optimal pharmacologic strategies for treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndromes in the critically ill. Treatment of alcohol withdrawal in the intensive care unit mirrors that of the general acute care wards and detoxification centers. In addition to adequate supportive care, benzodiazepines administered in a symptom-triggered fashion, guided by the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment of Alcohol scale, revised (CIWA-Ar), still seem to be the optimal strategy in the intensive care unit. In cases of benzodiazepine resistance, numerous options are available, including high individual doses of benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and propofol. Intensivists should be familiar with the diagnosis and treatment strategies for alcohol withdrawal syndromes in the intensive care unit.
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Rehm J, Baliunas D, Borges GLG, Graham K, Irving H, Kehoe T, Parry CD, Patra J, Popova S, Poznyak V, Roerecke M, Room R, Samokhvalov AV, Taylor B. The relation between different dimensions of alcohol consumption and burden of disease: an overview. Addiction 2010; 105:817-43. [PMID: 20331573 PMCID: PMC3306013 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2010.02899.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 723] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS As part of a larger study to estimate the global burden of disease and injury attributable to alcohol: to evaluate the evidence for a causal impact of average volume of alcohol consumption and pattern of drinking on diseases and injuries; to quantify relationships identified as causal based on published meta-analyses; to separate the impact on mortality versus morbidity where possible; and to assess the impact of the quality of alcohol on burden of disease. METHODS Systematic literature reviews were used to identify alcohol-related diseases, birth complications and injuries using standard epidemiological criteria to determine causality. The extent of the risk relations was taken from meta-analyses. RESULTS Evidence of a causal impact of average volume of alcohol consumption was found for the following major diseases: tuberculosis, mouth, nasopharynx, other pharynx and oropharynx cancer, oesophageal cancer, colon and rectum cancer, liver cancer, female breast cancer, diabetes mellitus, alcohol use disorders, unipolar depressive disorders, epilepsy, hypertensive heart disease, ischaemic heart disease (IHD), ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke, conduction disorders and other dysrhythmias, lower respiratory infections (pneumonia), cirrhosis of the liver, preterm birth complications and fetal alcohol syndrome. Dose-response relationships could be quantified for all disease categories except for depressive disorders, with the relative risk increasing with increased level of alcohol consumption for most diseases. Both average volume and drinking pattern were linked causally to IHD, fetal alcohol syndrome and unintentional and intentional injuries. For IHD, ischaemic stroke and diabetes mellitus beneficial effects were observed for patterns of light to moderate drinking without heavy drinking occasions (as defined by 60+ g pure alcohol per day). For several disease and injury categories, the effects were stronger on mortality compared to morbidity. There was insufficient evidence to establish whether quality of alcohol had a major impact on disease burden. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these findings indicate that alcohol impacts many disease outcomes causally, both chronic and acute, and injuries. In addition, a pattern of heavy episodic drinking increases risk for some disease and all injury outcomes. Future studies need to address a number of methodological issues, especially the differential role of average volume versus drinking pattern, in order to obtain more accurate risk estimates and to understand more clearly the nature of alcohol-disease relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Rehm
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.
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Samokhvalov AV, Irving H, Mohapatra S, Rehm J. Alcohol consumption, unprovoked seizures, and epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsia 2010; 51:1177-84. [PMID: 20074233 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2009.02426.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this research was to analyze and quantify the association between alcohol consumption and epilepsy as an independent disease, in part operationalized by the occurrence of unprovoked seizures, as well as to examine causality. METHODS Systematic review, meta-analysis. RESULTS A strong and consistent association between alcohol consumption and epilepsy/unprovoked seizures was found with an overall relative risk (RR) of 2.19 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.83-2.63]. There was a dose-response relationship between the amount of alcohol consumed daily and the probability of the onset of epilepsy. Individuals consuming an average of four, six, and eight drinks daily had RRs of 1.81 (95% CI 1.59-2.07), 2.44 (95% CI 2.00-2.97), and 3.27 (95% CI 2.52-4.26), respectively, compared to nondrinkers. Several pathogenic mechanisms for the development of epilepsy in alcohol users were identified. Most of the relevant studies found that a high percentage of alcohol users with epilepsy would qualify for the criteria of alcohol dependence. Data were inconclusive regarding a threshold for the effect of alcohol, but most studies suggest that the effect may only hold for heavy drinking (four and more drinks daily). DISCUSSION The relationship between alcohol consumption and epilepsy and unprovoked seizures was quantified and several pathogenic mechanisms were suggested, although none of them has been proven to be the unique causative pathway for epilepsy. Certain limitations underlying this study require further research to clarify the outstanding statistical issues and pathogenesis of epilepsy in heavy drinkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andriy V Samokhvalov
- Public Health and Regulatory Policy, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Berggren U, Fahlke C, Berglund KJ, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Balldin J. Thrombocytopenia in Early Alcohol Withdrawal is Associated with Development of Delirium Tremens or Seizures. Alcohol Alcohol 2009; 44:382-6. [DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agp012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Tetrault JM, O'Connor PG. Substance Abuse and Withdrawal in the Critical Care Setting. Crit Care Clin 2008; 24:767-88, viii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccc.2008.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Russo E, Citraro R, De Fazio S, Torcasio G, De Sarro G, Di Paola ED. Effects of ethanol on the development of genetically determined epilepsies in rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2008; 26:739-44. [PMID: 18656528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2008.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2008] [Accepted: 07/02/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we provide evidences for a differential effect of perinatal alcohol exposure with a direct correlation to the genetic background on the development of seizures. Ethanol (EtOH) is a widely used psychoactive substance that exerts its action by affecting multiple targets in the central nervous system. EtOH is known to interact with almost all identified neurotransmitters although its effects on excitatory and inhibitory amino acid neurotransmissions are considered to be particularly important in the mediation of its behavioural effects. Prenatal exposure to alcohol is associated with a wide variety of offspring's abnormalities which lead to the so called foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), which is also related to a higher susceptibility to convulsions. In our study, a rat strain of convulsive epilepsy, the GEPRs rats, displayed an increase of seizure susceptibility after foetal exposure to this teratogenic drug, while a non-convulsive rat strain of absence epilepsy, the WAG/Rij rat, did not fully develop its characteristic features. However, when all groups of rat where tested for pentyletetrazole-induced convulsion, animals perinatally treated with ethanol were less responsive in comparison to their respective controls. These results are in agreement with previous reports showing how the genetic background can directly influence the teratogenic effects of alcohol, and this can be strictly related to the variability in the observation of offspring anomalies in humans which has lead to a 5-category classification system for individuals exposed to alcohol in uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Russo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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Persaud R. Alcohol-related seizures may also be suicide and depression related. J Emerg Med 2008; 34:463; author reply 463. [PMID: 18206339 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2007.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2006] [Accepted: 01/13/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
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Sheorajpanday RVA, De Deyn PP. Epileptic fits and epilepsy in the elderly: general reflections, specific issues and therapeutic implications. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2007; 109:727-43. [PMID: 17703874 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2007.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2007] [Revised: 06/12/2007] [Accepted: 07/07/2007] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Seizures and epilepsy are commonly encountered in the elderly. Diagnosis is not always straightforward as reliable history is often difficult to obtain and EEG findings can be non-specific. When to treat and how may be difficult choices as adequate studies in elderly are rather scarce. Treatment should be based on careful assessment and comparison of risk/benefit profiles of various anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) in this specific elderly population. Since most AEDs are effective in terms of seizure control in the elderly, the choice of treatment is often determined by tolerability, pharmacokinetic profile and drug interactions of AEDs. As recently introduced AEDs have a better safety profile compared to older agents it seems logical to initiate treatment in the frail elderly patient with those more modern AEDs. In this review some distinctive clinical features of epilepsy in the elderly are discussed in three sections (general issues, special issues and selected treatment options with special reference to medicinal treatment).
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