Idiopathic Epilepsy Flashcards
what is a cluster seizure?
two or more seizures occurring within 24 hours
what is the prodromal phase?
altered behavior hours before seizure
what is a generalized seizure?
generalized neuronal hyper-excitability encompassing the entire cerebral cortex
both hemispheres
what is a focal seizure?
neurons of specific region of brain are involved in seizure focus
can affect any part of body, but head most often
what is the pathogenesis of seizures?
not completely understood
an imbalance in excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission
what is the genetic mode of transmission of idiopathic epilepsy?
autosomal recessive
more than one gene involved
what is the age of onset of idiopathic epilepsy?
10 months- 5 years
for what ages should you do an MRI for onset of seizures?
less than a year
more that five years
what metabolic testing should you do for a dog with new onset of seizures?
CBS, chemistry profile, urinalysis
bile acid stimulation test
ammonia
what are some indications for starting an anticonvulsive medication?
status epilepticus
cluster seizures
intracranial lesion
increasing seizure activity with shortening interictal interval
what is the breakdown of categories of causes of status epilepticus?
40% idiopathic epilepsy
40% symptomatic (intracranial) epilepsy
20% reactive (extra-cranial) epilepsy
what are some at home options for cluster events?
rectal diazepam
intranasal diazepam
intranasal midazolam
rectal levetiracetum
pulse therapy levetiracetum
what is the mechanism of action of phenobarbital?
effects post synaptic barbituate receptor in presence of GABA
prolongs opening of chloride channels: hyperpolarization of cell membrane
what is the mechanism of action of bromide?
hyperpolarization of post-synaptic membrane via accumulation within cells
what is the mechanism of action of levetiracetam?
modulates release of neurtotransmitters via selective binding to the SVA2 protein