Focal seizure (partial seizure)

Description A partial seizure i...

Description

A partial seizure is related to an abnormal discharge of electricity in the brain. Normally, electrical signals in the brain flow in regular controlled pathways. In a partial seizure, the normal electrical pathways are disrupted, resulting in an abnormal discharge of electricity in an area of the brain. The symptoms vary greatly depending on where in the brain the discharge occurs. A simple partial seizure does not result in a change in consciousness, while a complex partial seizure does.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary greatly depending on the area of the brain that is affected. They may include symptoms such as one sided jerking movements or stiffness, involuntary turning of the head or eyes to one side, numbness or visual disturbances (flashing lights, blurred vision). Some patients with partial seizures in an area of the brain called the temporal lobe report strange smells or tastes unrelated to a real object or food.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The physical exam will focus on the nervous system of the body. Blood tests will be performed. In addition, it is common for a brain image, either a CT scan or MRI, and a brain wave test called an electroencephalogram (EEG) to be performed.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electroencephalogram (EEG), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Urine or serum toxicology screen, Brain CT scan

Specialists:
Neurology, Pediatric Neurology

Treatment

A variety of medicines are used to treat partial seizures, such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin), valproate (Depakote), lamotrigine (Lamictal), oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), gabapentin (Neurontin) and topiramate (Topamax).