seizure classification

Question 1

What is a seizure?

Answer 1

Abnormal brain electrical activity resulting in stereotypic neurologic symptoms.

Question 2

What is epilepsy?

Answer 2

2 or more unprovoked seizures

Question 3

What can seizures be proceeded by?

Answer 3

Can be preceded by an aura and followed by somnolence, confusion and headache.
Post ictal state

Question 4

What are seizure classifications?

Answer 4

Generalized

focal

Question 5

What are the Focal (partial) seizures?

Answer 5

Simple
Complex (Impaired LOC)
Secondary generalized tonic-clonic-
Focal status epilepticus

Question 6

What are the generalized seizures?

Answer 6

Absence
Myoclonic
Atonic
Clonic(stiffen throughout)
Tonic 
Tonic-clonic
Infantile spasms

Question 7

What are the seizure differential diagnosis?

Answer 7

Seizure
Syncope
Stroke or TIA- do not show signs
Nonepileptic seizure

Question 8

Wha is the history of a person with seizures?

Answer 8

Alcohol or drug use
     Or withdrawal(can provoke seizures-alcohol withdrawal)

Head trauma, CNS infection, stroke, tumor
Family history
Prior “spells”
Tongue or cheek bite
Incontinence

Question 9

What are some typical lab findings of seizure patients?

Answer 9

Elevated Prolactin
Electrolytes (Hyponatremia)-low sodium in blood 
Drug screen
Alcohol level
Serum seizure medication levels

Question 10

What does a Electroencephalogram record?

Answer 10

Records electrical activity of the brain
Ictal and inter-ictal patterns
Routine or prolonged
May be normal in epilepsy