NSG201D EPILEPSY

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key aspects of epilepsy.

Epilepsy

A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Epilepsy Causes

Include ion channel dysfunction, neurotransmitter imbalance, brain injuries, genetic mutations, infections, tumors, and structural brain abnormalities.

Seizure Triggers

Include sleep deprivation, stress, hormonal changes, flashing lights (photosensitivity), and illness.

Initial Pathological Process of Epilepsy

Abnormal neuronal excitability and ion channel dysfunction cause neurons to fire uncontrollably, leading to seizure activity.

Mechanism of Progress for Epilepsy

Continued hyperexcitability and seizure activity can cause scarring (gliosis), altered neurotransmission, and rewiring of brain networks, increasing seizure frequency and severity.

Structural Changes Due to Epilepsy

Brain scarring, lesions, or tumors.

Functional Changes Due to Epilepsy

Disrupted neural circuits and abnormal synchronous firing in brain regions.

Symptoms of Epilepsy

Include seizures, confusion, muscle jerking, loss of consciousness, sensory disturbances, and post-seizure fatigue.

Complications of Epilepsy

Injuries during seizures, status epilepticus, memory and mood issues, social stigma, and reduced quality of life.

Diagnostic Tests for Epilepsy

EEG (electroencephalogram), MRI or CT scan, blood tests, and neurological exams.

Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs)

Common medications include Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Valproic Acid, Lamotrigine, Levetiracetam, Topiramate, Gabapentin, and Pregabalin.

Benzodiazepines for Epilepsy

Diazepam and Lorazepam are used for acute seizures.

Surgical Options for Epilepsy

Temporal lobectomy and corpus callosotomy are options for drug-resistant epilepsy.