Muscle Glycogen Depletion and Increased Oxidative Phosphorylation Following Status Epilepticus

Abstract

We describe complete glycogen depletion and increased respiratory chain enzyme activity in a muscle biopsy obtained prior to the demise of a patient in multiorgan failure following status epilepticus. These findings validate the theoretical basis of muscle energy turnover during status epilepticus: the increased demand for energy leads to complete depletion of glycogen reserves. The attempt to preserve adenosine triphosphate requirements results in increased activity of respiratory chain enzymes. (J Child Neurol 2003;18: 876-877).