Generalized Seizures

Question 1

Definition (general seizures)

Answer 1

seizure tht begins in one area of the brain & rapidly spreads throughout both hemispheres

Question 2

Tonic-clonic

Answer 2

consists of dramatic “tonic-clonic” muscle contractions

involuntary muscle contraction followed by relaxation appearing as an aggressive, loss of consciousness & a recovery period

Question 3

Absence

Answer 3

abrupt, brief (3-5 secs) loss of consciousness

most commonly occur with children

don’t usually involve MUSCLE CONTRACTIONS

Tx:
succinimides & drugs that modulate the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

Question 4

Myoclonic

Answer 4

Short, sporadic periods of muscle contractions tht lasts for several mins

relatively rare and is usually secondary to another condition.

Question 5

Febrile

Answer 5

tonic-clonic seizures (usually) related to very high fevers

usually self-limited & don’t reappear

Question 6

Jacksonian

Answer 6

begins in one area of the brain, affecting only ONE part of the body; which would then spread to other parts of the body

can develop into generalized tonic-clonic

Question 7

Psychomotor

Answer 7

complex

involves sensory, motor & psychic components

usually begins with loss of consciousness, movements,, emotional outbursts & motor or psychological disturbances

Question 8

Status epilepticus

Answer 8

most dangerous type of seizure

seizures recur again & again with no recovery/gap in between

Question 9

Tx

Answer 9

• hydantoins
• barbiturates
• barbiturate-like drugs
• benzodiazepines
• succinimides