Cardiopulmonary complications during pediatric seizures: A prelude to understanding SUDEP

Summary Purpose Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is an important, unexplained cause of death in epilepsy. Role of cardiopulmonary abnormalities in the pathophysiology of SUDEP is unclear in the pediatric population. Our objective was to assess cardiopulmonary abnormalities during epileptic seizures in children, with the long‐term goal of identifying potential mechanisms of SUDEP. Methods We prospectively recorded cardiopulmonary functions using pulse‐oximetry, electrocardiography (ECG), and respiratory inductance plethysmography (RIP). Logistic regression was used to evaluate association of cardiorespiratory findings with seizure characteristics and demographics. Key Findings We recorded 101 seizures in 26 children (average age 3.9 years). RIP provided analyzable data in 78% and pulse‐oximetry in 63% seizures. Ictal central apnea was more prevalent in patients with younger age (p = 0.01), temporal lobe (p