Module 5 - Part 1

Question 1

Defined as the occurrence of at least two unprovoked seizures
with or without “convulsion”

Answer 1

Epilepsy

Question 2

Excessive discharge of cortical neurons and characterized by changes in
electrical activity

Answer 2

Seizure

Question 3

Etiology of Epilepsy

Answer 3

*High fever
*Head trauma
*Very low blood pressure
*Alcohol withdrawal
*Genetic or developmental disorders or neurological
disease

Question 4

Triggers of Epilepsy

Answer 4

Lack of sleep
Illness or fever
Stress
Bright lights, flashing lights or patterns
Caffeine, alcohol, medications or drugs.
Skipping meals, overeating or eat a
specific food

Question 5

Minimal Spread of abnormal discharges
The patient is conscious and aware
May start with an AURA and may involve Jerking
movements or hallucinations

Answer 5

Simple Partial Seizure

Question 6

May start with an Aura
May become motionless/ Vacant stare
May perform Automatism:
Repeated movements or gestures such as smacking of the lips
Patient may be awake or may lose consciousness
May not have a memory or may not be aware of the seizure

Answer 6

Complex Partial Seizure

Question 7

Aka “petit mal”
Sudden onset, abrupt cessation (10-45 seconds)
May have mild clonic jerking of eyelids and extremities

Answer 7

Absence Seizure

Question 8

Aka “Gran mal”
Most dramatic
With tonic rigidity of the extremities followed by the
clonic jerking
The episode may be followed by deep sleep

Answer 8

Tonic Clonic Seizure

Question 9

• Under the umbrella of generalized tonic- clonic seizure
• Involves brief jerking movements
• Heterogenous affectiation
• May be seen in patients with GTC, partial and absence

Answer 9

Myoclonic Seizure

Question 10

“Drop attack” of the body
Loss of muscle control ( may cause fall or slump over during an attack)

Answer 10

Atonic Seizure

Question 11

Stages of Seizure

Answer 11

Prodromal Stage
Aura
Ictus
Post Ictus