Approach to epilepsy Flashcards
1
Q
When to refer for neuroimaging
A
- focal seizures
- focal neurology
- reduced GCS
- concern of SOL/ cerebral malformation
2
Q
Types of seizures
A
- febrile
- generalised (between 1-5 years)
- focal (<1yr and >5 yrs)
- syndromic
3
Q
When are absence seizures common?
A
Between ages 5-7
4
Q
What medication can make absence seizures worse?
A
Phenobarbitone
5
Q
What treatment is appropriate for absence seizures?
A
- valproate
- ethosuximide
6
Q
When is benign focal epilepsy of childhood common?
A
Between ages 5-7
7
Q
How to treat a granuloma
A
- exclude TB
- treat with stat albendazole
- cover with carbamazepine
8
Q
Medication for generalised epilepsy
A
sodium valproate 30/40mg/kg/day
9
Q
Medication for focal epilepsy
A
Carbamazepine
10
Q
Side effects of sodium valproate
A
- drowsiness
- hepatotoxicity
11
Q
Side effects of carbamazepine
A
- drowsiness
- rash
- bone marrow problems
12
Q
Other options for epilepsy treatment
A
- ketogenic diet
- surgery
- vagal nerve stimulators
13
Q
Approach to status epilepticus
A
- ABCD
- Pr diazepam (0.5mg/kg)
- IV access
- IV diazepam
- IV phenobarb (20mg/kg)
- Repeat phenobarb (10mg/kg)
