epilepsy types and treatment

Question 1

Characterized by frequent brief episodes of unresponsiveness or staring, often with subtle motor features like eyelid fluttering. It’s most common in children.

Answer 1

Absence epilepsy:

The first-line treatments are Ethosuximide and Sodium Valproate. Sodium Valproate should be avoided in women and girls of childbearing age if possible due to risks to the unborn child.

Question 2

Characterized by brief episodes of jerking movements, usually occurring after waking up.

Answer 2

Juvenile Myoclonic epilepsy:

Sodium Valproate is commonly used, though Levetiracetam and Lamotrigine are also considered.

Question 3

Characterized by a combination of muscle stiffness and jerking movements. The person often loses consciousness.

Answer 3

Tonic-clonic seizures:

Sodium Valproate, Lamotrigine, and Levetiracetam are considered first-line treatments.

Question 4

These start in one part of the brain and can present with a wide variety of symptoms, depending on the part of the brain affected. Symptoms can include motor symptoms, sensory symptoms, autonomic symptoms, or cognitive/psychic symptoms.

Answer 4

Focal seizures:

Carbamazepine, Lamotrigine, and Levetiracetam are commonly used.

Question 5

This is a severe form of epilepsy beginning in infancy. Symptoms include prolonged seizures that may be triggered by fever or infection. First-line treatment typically includes

Answer 5

Dravet Syndrome:

Sodium Valproate, Stiripentol, or Clobazam.

Question 6

This is a severe form of epilepsy characterized by multiple seizure types and cognitive decline. Treatment usually involves multiple medications, including

Answer 6

Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome:

Valproate, Lamotrigine, and Clobazam.

Question 7

Characterized by brief episodes of spasms, often upon waking. First-line treatments include

Answer 7

Infantile Spasms (West syndrome):

hormonal therapy (such as prednisolone or tetracosactide) or Vigabatrin, especially if associated with tuberous sclerosis.