Complex partial seizures (psychomotor epilepsy)

Description

Complex partial seizure is linked with abnormal electric discharge in the brain. Normally, electric signals in the brain run in regular controlled courses. In complex partial seizure, normal electric flows are interrumpted, which leads to abnormal electric dischare into one part of the brain (temporal lobe). In 80% of the cases the seizure begins with an aura and results with loss of consciousness. After the seizure, period of confusion frequently comes (postictal confusion).

Symptoms

The aura causes symptoms such as weird smell, sound hallucinations (buzzing, voices), visual hallucinations, “deja vu” sensation, anxiety, rapid heart rhythm, vertigo and sweating. Symptoms of the seizure itself involve repetitive moves (lifting one arm, twitching of clothes, blinking), chewing, staring and dilated pupils.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done. Physical examination is focused on the nervous system. Blood tests and CT scan and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain are being done. EEG helps in determination the parts of the brain in which electric abnormality appepars.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis, electroencephalogram (EEG), CT scan, electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), magnetic resonance imaging and toxicologic analysis of urien.

Specialists

Neurology, Neurosurgery

Therapy

A series of medicines are used for the treatment of complex partial seizures. The most often are carbamazepine, fenitoin, valproate, lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, gabapentin and topiramat. In persons older than 12, nervus vagnus stimulation (VNS) can be taken into account. In severe cases, temporal lobectomy (surgical removal of the part of the brain in which seizures appear) can be recommended.