Muscle glycogen depletion and increased oxidative phosphorylation following status epilepticus.

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.