Seizure

Question 1

Definitions:
Seizure
Epilepsy
Epileptogenesis

Answer 1

Seizure: Clinical manifestation of an abnormal and excessive excitation and synchronization of a population of cortical neurons

Epilepsy: A tendency toward recurrent seizures unprovoked by any systemic or acute neurologic insults

Epileptogenesis: sequence of events that converts a normal neuronal network into a hyperexcitable network

Question 2

What is grand mal, petit mal, mycoclonic jerking, atonic seizure and infantile spasms?

Answer 2

Grand mal: tonic rigidity of all extremities, followed by 30 sec of tremor. Most dramatic, massive jerking of the body

petit mal: sudden onset and abrupt cessation, often in childhood, 100 times a day, 10 sec.

Myoclonic jerking: Seen as parts of other seizure types

Atonic seizure: Brief lapse in muscle tone, if standing the patient falls suddenly

infantile spasms: Epileptic syndrom and not seizure. Brief recurrent myologenic jerks of the body, often patients are mentally retarded.