Neurology #3 Precision and Pearls Flashcards
There are two types of focal (partial) seizure. Explain the difference between the two types
-Simple
-Complex
-Simple: consciousness maintained
-Complex: consciousness impaired
What diagnostic should be done for focal/partial seizures?
EEG
On an EEG, what is seen in a simple focal seizure?
Focal discharge at onset of seizure
On the other hand, what is seen with a complex focal seizure on an EEG?
-Interictal spikes at temporal or frontotemporal area
An absence (petit mal) seizure involves _________ and is MC seen in childhood. Explain the symptoms of this type.
Both hemispheres
-Pause/stare without loss of body tone
-Episodes last 5-10 seconds, eyelid twitching, lip smacking
-No postictal phase
What is seen on EEG in an absence seizure?
Bilateral symmetric 3 Hertz spike and wave activity
What is the first-line treatment for an absence seizure?
Ethosuximide
What two medications can exacerbate absence seizures?
Carbamazepine and Gabapentin
With generalized (grand mal) seizures, which are simultaneous neuronal discharge of both hemispheres, what are some symptoms?
Tonic Clonic (Grand Mal): sudden loss of consciousness with tonic activity (contraction and rigidity) followed by 1-2 minutes of clonic activity (repetitive movements) followed by postictal confusion phase.
-Cyanosis and urinary incontinence can occur
What two labs are elevated following seizures?
What is seen on EEG in a patient with a grand mal seizure?
Prolactin and lactic acid
High amplitude rapid spiking
What are some long-term treatment options for epilepsy?
Levetiracem, Phenytoin, Valproic Acid
What is status epilepticus?
Single, continuous seizure lasting 5 minutes or more, or more than 1 seizure in 5 minutes without recovery between
What is the first line treatment for status epilepticus
Benzodiazepines (Lorazepam)
Phenytoin has a MOA of _________ and some side effects include…..
Blocks voltage gated sodium channels
-P450 Inducer (Lupus Like Sx)
-Hyperplasia of gums and Hirsuitism
-Erythema Multiforme
-Osteopenia
-Nystagmus
On the other hand, Carbamazepine __________ and is the drug of choice for _________. Some other side effects of this medication are
-Blocks Na+ channels
-DOC in trigeminal neuralgia
-Hyponatremia (causes SIADH)
-SJS, Hepatotoxicity
-P450 Inducer (Lupus)
Ethosuximide is only used for what type of seizures?
What does this drug do?
Absence seizures
Blocks calcium channels, decreases neuronal firing
Another treatment option for seizures, topiramate, blocks Na+ channels and increases GABA, and is a glutamate receptor antagonist, has a side effect of…
Renal stones