Bradicardia asociada a crisis epilépticas. Casos clínicos

Abstract

Cardiac rate and rhythm due to autonomic activation, may occur during epileptic seizures. They are probably a consequence of the spreading seizure activity to structures involved in the autonomic control of cardiac rhythm. Sinus tachycardia is the most frequent finding (90%). Ictal bradycardia is rare and life threatening asystoles require cardiac pacemaker insertion. We report two patients with a right frontal seizure associated to bradycardia, during simultaneous EEG/ECG monitoring. Interictal autonomic function tests showed preserved sympathetic and cardiac vagal responses. Normal interictal autonomic function tests, suggested a transient failure of sympatho-vagal balance.