ABSTRACT
Mechanisms of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) are various and include changes in the central and peripheral autonomic nervous system, cardiac rhythm, i.e., arrhythmias, and pulmonary function including pulmonary edema, obstructive apnea, and larygospasm (Lathers 2011, ch. 44). A global focus is needed to resolve the risk factors for and mechanisms of epilepsy and sudden death (Lathers 2009). To this end, we have recently developed a new unique method of research for studying the risk factors and mechanism(s) underlying SUDEP based on a comprehensive and systems-based approach in Chapters 4 and 5.
