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Jocelyn Case Study
Jocelyn Case Study
Introduction
Also known as convulsions, epileptic seizures, and if recurrent, epilepsy. It is a sudden alteration in normal
brain activity that cause distinct changes in behavior and body function. They are thought to result from
abnormal, recurrent, uncontrolled electric discharges of neurons in the brain.
Predisposing factors include head or brain trauma, tumors, cranial surgery, metabolic disorders
(hypocalcemia, hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, hyponatremia, anoxia);central nervous system infection;
circulating disorders; drug toxicity; drug withdrawal states (alcohol, barbiturates); and congenital
neurodegenerative disorders.
There are two basic types of seizures:
Epileptic:These seizures have no apparent cause (or trigger) and occur repeatedly. These seizures are
called a seizure disorder or epilepsy.
Nonepileptic:These seizures are triggered (provoked) by a disorder or another condition that irritates the
brain. In children, a fever can trigger a nonepileptic seizure.
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Pathophysiology
Before age 2:High fevers or temporary metabolic
abnormalities, such as abnormal blood levels of sugar
(glucose), calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, or sodium, can
trigger one or more seizures. Seizures do not occur once the
fever or abnormality resolves. If the seizures recur without
such triggers, the cause is likely to be an injury during birth,
a birth defect, or a hereditary metabolic abnormality or brain
disorder.
2 to 14 years:Often, the cause is unknown.
After age 25:A head injury, stroke, or tumor may damage
the brain, causing a seizure. Alcohol withdrawal (caused by
suddenly stopping drinking) is a common cause of seizures.
However, in about half of people in this age group, the cause
is unknown.
Causes of Seizures
Cause
Examples
High fever
Heatstroke
Infections
Brain
infections
Abscess
AIDS
Malaria
Meningitis
Rabies
Syphilis
Tetanus
Toxoplasmosis
Viral encephalitis
Metabolic
disorders
Inadequate
Diagnostic Procedure
EEG, with or without video monitoring, locates epileptic focus,
spread, intensity, and duration, helps classify seizure type.
CT scanning or MRI identifies lesion that may cause of seizure.
Single photon emission CT scanning (SPECT) or positron
emission tomography (PET) identifies seizure foci.
Neuropsychological studies evaluate for behavioral
disturbances.
Serum electrolytes, glucose, and toxicity screen determine the
cause of first seizure.
Lumbar puncture and blood cultures may be necessary if fever
is present.