Epilepsy

Question 1

What are the three most common types of generalised epilepsy?

Answer 1

1. Generalised tonic-clonic seizures,
2. Absence seizures, &
3. Myoclonic seizures.

Question 2

Generalised idopathic epilepsy syndromes include:

Answer 2

1. Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy.
2. Juvenile Absence Epilepsy.
3. Childhood absence Epilepsy (80% remittance by 18years).

Question 3

Describe the features of a generalised tonic - clonic seizure.

Answer 3

Onset extension of torso & lower limb and flexion of UL (think decorticate posture).
Rapid small tonic movements (including cessation of breath).
During clonic phase movements become larger but a reduced frequency. (Frothing at mouth not uncommon in this phase).

Question 4

Focal seizures are most common in which lobe?

Answer 4

Temporal lobe
Due to higher potential for hypoxic injury.

Question 5

What is a typical constituent for auras of Temporal lobe epilepsy?

Answer 5

Olfactory, Deja vu, rising epigastric sensation, Autonomic (SNS) sensations (BP HR etc).

Question 6

How does Temporal lobe seizures / automatisms present?

Answer 6

Localised repeated movements ie lip smacking, picking at clothing etc.
Can progress to tonic clonic seizure within the episode.