Lecture 4: Epilepsy - Mechanisms And Pathology Flashcards
1
Q
What are three ways an epileptic seizure may manifest as?
A
- a brief stare
- a change of awareness
- a convulsion
2
Q
What are the three main seizure types?
A
- Partial (focal) seizures
- Generalised seizures
- Unclassified seizures
3
Q
Is there a genetic link with epilepsy?
A
Yes. Around 40% of all epilepsies are presumed to be genetic.
4
Q
What might hyper-excitability in epilepsy arise as a result of?
A
Ion channel dysfunction or an imbalance of excitatory vs inhibitory neurotransmission.
5
Q
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder characterised by what?
A
An enduring predisposition to generate seizures.
6
Q
What proportion of patients do not respond to medication?
A
A third.
