Multiple mechanisms believed

to cause different types of

epileptic syndromes

Abnormalities occur at 2
Level of neuronal circuits
basic levels of the CNS

Level of individual neuron

Abnormalities with
neurotransmission:

- GABA inhibition

- post synaptic excitation

Contributes to neuronal network abnormality
- burst frequency of AP
Hyperexcitability:
- kindling
neurons are more likely to
Alters the way neurons propagate action
communicate with one potentials inappropriately
another creating 2 Seizure = repetitive,
major components of excessive, and sustained
epileptogenesis neuronal discharge
Hypersynchronicity:
Seizure activity begins in excitation is more likely
Simple partial
both hemispheres at the 2 subdivisions of to activate and involve
seizures =
same time partial seizures neighboring neurons and
- consciousness is based on level of circuits inappropriately
preserved consciousness

- Jacksonian march
Tonic clonic or grand mal (most common):
Recurrent seizures = epilepsy
- tonic phase = stiffening, legs extended One or more localized
foci in one hemisphere
- clonic phase = jerking of extremities

- drooling
Partial or focal Epilepsy syndrome
- bowel or bladder incontinence

- postictal confusion or lethargy