Changes in cerebral dynamics associated with seizures

Abstract

An investigation of changes in heart rate, blood pressure, electrocardiographic configuration, cerebrospinal fluid pressure, and cerebral blood flow associated with induced generalized convulsions has been undertaken. With the use of succinylcholine and artificial respiration, these changes can be measured in human subjects and related to neuronal overactivity. The increased cerebrospinal fluid pressures reflect the increased cerebral blood flow. Changes during partial or focal seizures are less profound. The increased neuronal activity of a generalized convulsion requires greater blood flow. Marked cardiovascular changes occur to provide this greater blood flow.