1: Epilepsy Flashcards
Why might a tonic-clonic seizure begin with a cry?
It is the result air moving across the glottis from sudden tonic muscle contraction.
In this type of seizure there is a loss of consciousness.
Complex partial
Another name for this type of seizure is grand mal.
Tonic–clonic
Which seizure?
Typically begin in childhood. Often noticed first by teachers. The patient may or may not be aware that a seizure has occurred.
Absence
Abnormal focal or generalized neuronal discharge, often with physical manifestations.
Seizure
Is epilepsy more common in males or females?
Males
In this type of seizure only one part of the brain is seizing, though it can spread to involve the entire brain.
Partial
Seizures occur when neurons discharge _____ and _____.
Seizures occur when neurons discharge spontaneously and synchronously.
What type of seizure?
Patients may need to wear protective headgear.
Atonic
In this type of seizure the entire brain is seizing at the same time. It may or may not be convulsive.
Generalized
What type of seizure?
Most dramatic and most common generalized epilepsy.
Tonic-clonic
Common causes of seizures in adults over the age of 35 (5).
Cerebrovascular Disease
Brain Tumors
Alcohol Withdrawal
Metabolic Disorders (electrolyte disturbances)
Idiopathic Epilepsy (usually develops in those younger than 35).
What type of seizure?
Most likely to cause an injury.
Atonic
What type of seizure?
Loss of consciousness may occur, but it is difficult to tell due to the extremely brief duration.
Myoclonic
This type of seizure has stiffening and jerking.
Tonic-clonic
Tonic (stiffening)
Clonic (jerking)
What type of seizure?
May seem alert and responsive but are actually not. May pick at clothing or smack lips.
Complex partial
Common causes of seizures in young adults 18 to 35 years old (5).
Trauma Alcohol Withdrawal Illicit Drug Use Brain Tumors Idiopathic Epilepsy (Same as 12-18 yo, just no infections)
Stages of seizures:
During the seizure.
Ictal
What is the most common cause of adult epilepsy in developING countries?
Neurocysticercosis (parasitic dz)
T/F Most epilepsy is idiopathic.
True for children. In childhood most epilepsy is idiopathic.
False for adults. In adults most are secondary to identifiable causes.