Childhood Disorders - Epilepsy and Other Conditions

These flashcards cover key concepts related to childhood disorders, particularly epilepsy and associated conditions, as outlined in the lecture notes.

What is the defining characteristic of epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a non-contagious neurological disorder characterized by excessive electrical discharges of brain cells (neurons) leading to two or more unprovoked seizures.

What percentages of epilepsy cases are classified as primary idiopathic epilepsy?

Around 60% of epilepsy cases are classified as primary idiopathic epilepsy, which has no obvious identifiable cause.

What are the known causes of secondary epilepsy?

Secondary epilepsy can be caused by prenatal or perinatal factors, congenital abnormalities, serious head injury, cerebrovascular accident (CVA), or tumors.

What are prodromal signs in epilepsy?

Prodromal signs include symptoms like nausea and muscle twitching that may occur hours before a seizure.

Describe the interictal phase of epilepsy.

The interictal phase is the period between seizures, during which a person may experience confusion and irritability.

What is status epilepticus?

Status epilepticus is a dangerous condition characterized by continuous seizures.

What is the difference between simple partial seizures (SPS) and complex partial seizures (CPS)?

SPS has reduced awareness but intact consciousness, while CPS involves impairment of consciousness.

What are the two phases of tonic-clonic seizures?

Tonic-clonic seizures involve two phases: the tonic phase (stiffening of muscles) and the clonic phase (twitching or jerking movement).

What is a common cause of meningitis in Sub-Saharan Africa?

In Sub-Saharan Africa, TB meningitis and HIV-related brain infections are common causes of meningitis.

What are the symptoms of meningitis and encephalitis?

Symptoms include headache, fever, neck stiffness, nausea, lethargy, confusion, and reduced level of consciousness.

What type of infections can lead to encephalitis?

Encephalitis occurs when pathogens invade brain tissue, causing inflammation and possibly necrosis.

What developmental delays can arise from meningitis, especially in preverbal infants?

Meningitis can lead to delayed language development, particularly when it occurs during the critical language development phase.

What is neurocysticercosis?

Neurocysticercosis is caused by the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) and is a common cause of acquired epilepsy, particularly in developing countries.

What are helminths?

Helminths are worm-like parasites that feed on a living host, potentially causing illness.

How does Taenia solium lead to seizures?

When the host ingests T. solium eggs, the larvae penetrate the intestines, enter the bloodstream, and form cysts that can cause inflammation and seizures.

What is the role of the blood-brain barrier in the central nervous system?

The blood-brain barrier is a protective mechanism that prevents harmful substances in the bloodstream from entering the brain, allowing only essential nutrients to pass through.

What are the common types of seizures associated with epilepsy?

The common types of seizures include generalized seizures (affecting both hemispheres of the brain) and focal seizures (starting in one area of the brain).

How can epilepsy be diagnosed?

Epilepsy can be diagnosed through medical history, EEG (electroencephalogram) monitoring, and neuroimaging such as MRI or CT scans.

What treatments are available for epilepsy?

Treatments for epilepsy include antiepileptic medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery or the use of devices like vagus nerve stimulators.

What is the significance of seizure triggers in epilepsy management?

Identifying seizure triggers, such as stress, lack of sleep, or flashing lights, is significant as avoiding these triggers can help reduce the frequency of seizures.

What is the prognosis for a person with epilepsy?

The prognosis for a person with epilepsy varies; many individuals can achieve good seizure control with appropriate treatment, while others may have persistent seizures.

What lifestyle modifications can benefit individuals with epilepsy?

Lifestyle modifications that can benefit individuals with epilepsy include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding alcohol, and managing stress effectively.

What role does education about epilepsy play in society?

Education about epilepsy helps reduce stigma, promotes understanding, and encourages support for individuals affected by the disorder