Epilepsy Tutorial Flashcards

1
Q

Define epilepsy

A

The term epilepsy refers to a disorder of brain function characterized by the periodic and unpredictable occurrence of seizures.

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2
Q

Define seizure

A

The term seizure refers to a transient alteration of behaviour due to the disordered, synchronous, and rhythmic firing of populations of brain neurones.

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3
Q

Briefly state the different types of seizures in epilepsy

A
  • Partial seizures, those beginning focally at a cortical site
  • Generalized seizures, those that involve both hemispheres widely from the outset.
  • A simple partial seizure is associated with preservation of consciousness, whilst a complex partial seizure is associated with impairment of consciousness. - Examples of generalized seizures include absence, myoclonic and tonic-clonic seizures.
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4
Q

Describe the pharmacological evidence for the role of neurotransmitters in epilepsy

A
  • Impairment of GABA-mediated inhibition causes seizures in animals, while enhancement reduces seizures
  • Glutamate causes seizure-like activity too
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5
Q

Give some examples of drugs used in epilepsy treatment

A
  • Tiagabine inhibits reuptake of GABA
  • Vigabatrin and valproate inhibits GABA transaminase (so GABA is not converted)
  • Benzodiazapines and phenoarbital enhance GABA
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