Epilepsy Flashcards
What is the leading cause of epilepsy?
Idiopathic
If a seizure begins with focal features, what is it called?
Partial seizure (regardless of how quickly it generalises)
Primary generalised seizures are commonest amongst which age group?
Childhood - teens
What are the 4 indications for an EEG to be carried out?
1) Classification of epilepsy
2) Confirmation of non-epileptic attack
3) Surgical evaluatin
4) Confirmation of non-convulsive attack
What medications are advised in focal onset seizures?
Carbamazepine or lamotrigine
In women taking anticonvulsant medication, what 3 points should be discussed with them particularly?
1) Teratogenicity risk
2) Reduced efficacy of OCP; requires higher dose of oestrogen (POP deemed not effective)
3) Morning after pill; require higher dose
If epileptic attacks occur whilst the person is awake and there is an associated loss of consciousness, what implications does this have for their driving licence?
Taken away; reapply if seizure free for 1yr.
If a one-off seizure occurs whilst awake and there is an associated loss of consciousness, what implications does this have for their driving licence?
Taken away; reapply in 6mths if no seizures in that time AND DVLA’s medical advisors decide there is not a high risk you will have another seizure.
If epileptic attacks while asleep coincide with awake attack, what affect does this have on the individuals driving licence?
3yrs seizure free before they can reapply for their licence
What is status epilepticus?
Recurrent epileptic seizures without full recovery of consciousness.
What is the initial management of status epilepticus?
Midazolam 10 mg IM, if >40kg; if <40kg, 5mg