Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) affects about one out of every 1.000 people with epilepsy.  Despite its rarity, SUDEP is important to discuss, but some physicians are wary of having the conversations. Dr. Emma Carter spoke with Dr. Suvasini Sharma about SUDEP, why it's important to inform patients and families about it, and how to manage risk factors.

The greatest risk factor for SUDEP is uncontrolled generalized tonic-clonic seizures (previously called grand mal seizures). Nocturnal seizures and certain comorbidities, such as developmental delay, also are risk factors.

SUDEP information for families from the ILAE (ilae.org)

Relevant articles:

Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) - What pediatricians need to know Garg D, Sharma S, 2020

Effect of counselling of parents of children with epilepsy focusing on sudden unexpected death in epilepsy Kumari S, et al., 2022

Counseling about sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP): A global survey of neurologists' opinions Asadi-Pooya AA, et al., 2022

Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.

Let us know how we're doing: [email protected].

The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where no person's life is limited by epilepsy. Visit us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.