Epilepsy I

Question 1

define seizure

Answer 1

an event characterized by excessive synchronous activity of cerebral cortical neurons

Question 2

define epilepsy

Answer 2

an underlying abnormality of the brain that predisposes the person to seizures

Question 3

Following a seizure the patient will experience negative symptoms, or in other words, a loss of function in the areas of brain involved. This is the postictal period. This is thought to be due to what two mechanisms?

Answer 3

neuronal exhaustion;

inhibitory inputs to that area

Question 4

A ____ seizure begins in one area of the cortex. It may remain localized or spread to varying degrees including the whole cortex causing a classic grand mal seizure

Answer 4

partial

Question 5

generalized seizures are generalized from the onset. These types of epilepsies do not originate from a single abnormal focus, but instead these are thought to occur because the cortex as a whole is _______ . Often this is on a genetic basis

Answer 5

hyper-irritable

Question 6

partial complex seizures and absences consist of a period of _________ unaccompanied by major motor manifestations

Answer 6

altered mental status

Question 7

Simple behavior such as chewing and picking at clothing (automatisms) are more common in ______ seizures

Answer 7

partial complex