Seizure Active Learning - J.Prun

Question 1

How many types of primary seizures vs how many types of secondary seizures?

Answer 1

Primary = only epilepsy

Secondary = the rest of them

Question 2

Big difference between a simple and complex seizure?

Answer 2

Simple = no alteration of consciousness

Complex = impaired or loss of consciousness

Question 3

What is the jacksonian motor seizure?

Answer 3

Initial focal tonic seizure

-Subsequently the clonus and tonic-clonic will spread a long the humunculus

(the seizure spreads from the hand, up the arm, to the face, and down the leg; or, if the first movement is in the foot, the seizure marches up the leg, down the arm, and to the face, usually in a matter of 20 to 30 s.)

Question 4

What is post tetanic potentiation?

Answer 4

After a tetanus (a high frequency train of stimulations) there is a high level of residual calcium in the presynaptic cell, temporarily increasing the release probability.
Results in increased synchronous activity with neighboring neurons

Can lead to seizure

Question 5

What is kindling?

Answer 5

Repeated brief low-intensity stimulation results in progressive intensification of seizures, culminating in tonic-clonic seizures
Reflects plasticity of the brain & synaptic connections

Question 6

IF phenytoin is not working at the normal dose, why can’t you simply increase the dose to imporve effectiveness?

Answer 6

It has zero order kinetics, so you’re going to just need to use a completely different drug