Epilepsy

Question 1

Aetiologies?

Answer 1

Focal lesionsInfectionsHypoxiaIdiopathic Trauma

Question 2

Pathology?

Answer 2

Generalised - bilateral abnormal brain neuron firing showing general manifestations Focal - as above but only focal signs

Question 3

Signs and symptoms of absence seizures?

Answer 3

Patient will cease activity randomly and stare blankly Skin pallor, twitchingActivity begins where it left off

Question 4

Signs and symptoms of tonic-clonic seizures?

Answer 4

Tonic phase = rigidity, falls, bitten tongue, incontinence Clonic phase = convulsions, frothing of mouth, rhythmic jerking

Question 5

Investigations and Findings?

Answer 5

EEGECGCT scanSerum calcium GlucoseCan exclude epilepsy in many cases

Question 6

Management for absence seizure?

Answer 6

Sodium valproate Lomotrigine

Question 7

Management for tonic - clonic seizures?

Answer 7

Sodium valproate Carbemazepine

Question 8

Complications of absence seizures?

Answer 8

Can progress into tonic clonic epilepsy

Question 9

Complications of tonic-clonic epilepsy?

Answer 9

TraumaRoad traffic accidents loss of driving licence Status epilepticus

Question 10

Aetiologies of status epilepticus?

Answer 10

Anyone with epilepsy can have this type of seizure First presentation as SE is almost unheard of

Question 11

Pathology of status epilepticus?

Answer 11

a seizure which lasts more than 30 mins or 2+ seizures in a row without recovery

Question 12

Investigations for status epilepticus?

Answer 12

ABG Blood glucoseECG

Question 13

Management of status epilepticus?

Answer 13

Secure airway IV/IR diazepam +/- phenytoin if symptoms persist Treat after 5 mins

Question 14

Complications of status epilepticus?

Answer 14

10% mortality