2.4 seizures Flashcards
definition of a seizure
transient occurrence due to abnormal excessive/synchronous neuronal activity
definition of epilepsy
disorder where predisposition to generating epileptic seizures
causes of seizures - use mnemonic vitamins
v = vascular: stroke
I = infection: encephalitis, meningitis
T = trauma
A = autoimmune
M = metabolic: hyperglycaemia
I = idiopathic
N = neoplasms
S = syndrome = genetic, neurodegenerative
what is the classification of seizures
focal - abnormal electrical activity in the brain resulting in focal neurological deficits
generalised - widespread electrical discharges in both hemispheres, often loss of consciouscness
tonic clonic seizures
classified as a generalised seizure
there will be convulsions = tonic+clonic
often tongue biting, incontinence
abscence seizure
classified as a general seizure
brief episodes of loss of awareness associated with staring
myoclonic seizures
brief twitch or jerk
what are automatisms
involuntary repetitive movements such as lip smacking or hand rubbing
so in all features that can be present for seizures 8
myoclonic
atonic
clonic
tonic
absence - loss of awareness
automatisms
auras
loss of consciousness
what are auras
sensory expeirences preeceding seizures
clinical investigation of epilepsy 7
bloods
CT
MRI
EEG
Video EEG
PET scan
Genetic studies
two anti-seizure medications
valporate
carbamazepine
valporate mechanism 2 functions
inhibits sodium channels
enhances gaba
mechaism of carbamazepine 2 mechs
blocks sodium gated channels preventing excitability of cell
stabilises cell membranes
common side effects of valporate 5
nausea
vomitting
weight gain
sedation
tremour
common side effects of carbamazepine 5
dizziness
drowsiness
nausea
vomitting
hyponatremia
