Epilepsy Flashcards
What is the basic definition of all types of epilepsy?
A sudden, excessive depolarization of some/all cerebral neurons
What differentiates a focal/partial seizure from a generalized seizure?
If the cerebral tissue affected is localised: focal/partial
If cortical neurons are also affected: generalized
What are the two types of partial seizures and the three types of generalized seizures?
Simple partial
Complex partial
Tonic-clonic
Absence
Myoclonic
What happens if a seizure occurs in the Motor area?
Seizures may cause abnormal movements
What happens if a seizure occurs in the Sensory area?
Seizures may cause tingling, numbness or burning in an area of the body
What happens if a seizure occurs in the Olfactory area?
Seizures may cause intense, unpleasant smells
What happens if a seizure occurs in the Auditory area?
Seizures may cause auditory hallucinations such as buzzing or ringing sounds
What happens if a seizure occurs in the Visual area?
Seizures may cause visual disturbances
What are the 6 factors that can trigger seizures?
Strobe lights Stress (lack of) sleep Overeating Alcohol Drugs
What is status epilepticus?
A medical emergency defined by more than 30 minutes of continuous seizure activity
or
Two or more sequential seizures spanning this period without full recovery between seizures
What is the first symptom of having a brain tumor?
Seizure
How can genetics lend a predisposition to epilepsy?
Cannelopathies can be passed down
What is the largest relative risk of developing epilepsy besides a brain tumor?
Stroke and Hemorrage
How can you cure epilepsy?
You can’t. It can only be treated with Antiepileptic drugs
What are some considerations when choosing an antiepileptic drug? (6)
Seizure type Pharmacokinetic profile Interactions/other medical conditions Efficacy Expected adverse effects Cost
What are the (4) putative mechanisms of action for AEDs?
Sodium channels Calcium channels GABAergic synapses Other targets (eg glutamate receptors)