Introduction To Epilepsy Treatment: Module 3 Flashcards
What is epilepsy?
A central nervous system (CNS) disorder caused by electrical dysfunction in the brain, leading to seizures.
What are the three key questions in diagnosing epilepsy?
- Is the episode an epileptic seizure?
- What is the seizure type?
- What is the epilepsy syndrome?
How many people are estimated to be affected by epilepsy worldwide?
Approximately 65 million people.
What is the significance of seizure severity and impact in epilepsy?
It depends upon the part of the brain that is affected.
True or False: All seizures are epilepsy.
False.
What is the purpose of an electroencephalograph (EEG)?
Measures electrical activity in the brain.
What does continuous video-EEG monitoring combine?
Long-term EEG recording with video recording of an individual’s behavior.
What is the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in epilepsy diagnosis?
Detects structural abnormalities in the brain.
What is the function of computerized tomography (CT) in epilepsy evaluation?
Uses radiation to detect structural abnormalities in the brain.
What is magnetoencephalography (MEG) used for?
Detects abnormalities in the brain’s electrical activity.
What does positron emission tomography (PET) assess?
Glucose metabolism or blood flow in the brain.
What types of tests are included in genetic or metabolic testing for epilepsy?
Blood, urine, and spinal fluid tests.
Fill in the blank: The diagnostic procedure aims to determine if the episode is an _______.
[epileptic seizure]
What can mimic epileptic seizures?
A variety of conditions.
Why is MRI essential for patients undergoing a surgical evaluation for epilepsy?
Useful in determining seizure type.
What is the primary use of PET or SPECT in epilepsy diagnosis?
To assess areas where seizures arise, indicated by decreased glucose metabolism and blood flow.
Why is an eyewitness account crucial in diagnosing epilepsy?
It is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and classification of seizure type
An eyewitness can provide details that are vital for understanding the context of the seizure.
What diagnostic tool is used to support the diagnosis of epilepsy?
Electroencephalography (EEG)
EEG helps to classify seizures and syndromes associated with epilepsy.
What is the preferred imaging technique for detecting structural abnormalities in the brain?
MRI
MRI is essential for diagnosing patients with suspected focal onset seizures.
What are the goals of therapy in epilepsy treatment?
- Prevent further seizures
- Avoid adverse effects
- Improve quality of life
- Enable patients to lead active lives
These goals apply to all treatment modalities including pharmacologic, surgical, dietary, or neurostimulation.
What is the first step after diagnosing epilepsy?
Selecting the best form of treatment, specifically the correct antiepileptic drug(s)
Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the most common treatment for epilepsy.
What factors influence the decision to treat a patient with epilepsy?
- Probability of seizure recurrence
- Social and physical impact of additional seizures
- Cause of the seizure
- Informed consent from the patient or caregiver
These factors help neurologists assess the need for treatment.