Epilepsy and aura Flashcards
Aura
An aura is a subjective sensation and is a simple partial seizure. Typically, it is of brief duration, rarely lasting longer than seconds. Determining the type of aura present help in identifying the site of cortical onset. Eight different varieties are recognized: somatosensory, visual, auditory, gustatory, olfactory, autonomic, abdominal, and psychic.
Auras precede temporal lobe seizures in approximately 80% of cases. The most common auras in temporal lobe seizures are abdominal (a rising epigastric sensation) and psychic aura (fear, d�j� vu, jamais vu).
Parietal lobe seizures may begin with a contralateral sensation, usually of the positive type (electrical sensation, tingling). Occipital lobe seizures may begin with contralateral visual changes, usually of the positive type, such as colored lines, spots, or shapes, or even a loss of vision. Temporal-parietal-occipital seizures may produce more formed auras.
Complex partial seizures, are defined by impairment of consciousness. This implies decreased responsiveness and awareness of ones self and surroundings. Usually, during a complex partial seizure, a patient is unresponsive and does not remember events that occurred.
Which of the following types of epilepsy is an aura most likely to be experienced?
This question appears in two forms in the exam. In one question it is implied that auras are most associated with temporal lobe epilepsy and in another, complex partial. Partial (focal) seizures are most often associated with aura compared to the other types. Partial seizures can arise in any lobe of the brain but those arising in the temporal lobe are most likely to give rise to an aura. So both questions are correct.
