Epilepsy

Question 1

What is the most important excitatory neurotransmitter?

Answer 1

Glutamate via NMDA receptor

Question 2

What is the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter?

Answer 2

GABA via GABAa receptor

Question 3

Define epilespsy

Answer 3

Tendency towards recurrent seizures unprovoked by a systemic or neurological insult, at least 2 more than 24hrs apart

Question 4

What is a reflex seizure?

Answer 4

Seizure brought on by a particular stimulus

Question 5

What is a provoked seizure?

Answer 5

Seizure as a result of another medical condition, drug use, alcohol withdrawal, head trauma, bleed etc

Question 6

What are some differential diagnoses of a seizure?

Answer 6

vasovagal syncope, cardiac issues, TIA, migraine

Question 7

Define Status Epilepticus

Answer 7

Seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, or multiple seizures in 5 minutes without complete recovery in-between

Question 8

What is the treatment for status epilepticus?

Answer 8

Benzodiazipine can be given twice, then phenytoin

Question 9

What types of benzodiazipine can be used?

Answer 9

IV lorazepam, rectal Diazepam, buccal Midazolam

Question 10

What investigations can be done for seizures?

Answer 10

EEG, MRI to see vascular or structural abnormality

Question 11

Name some sodium channel blockers for seizures

Answer 11

Carbamazepine, phenytoin, sodium valporate, lamotrigine

Question 12

Which seizure drug is well tolerated and safe in pregnancy?

Answer 12

Levetiracetam

Question 13

Name 2 side effects pf anti-epileptic drugs

Answer 13

drowsiness, rash, nausea and vomiting, mood changes