Partial epilepsy (also known as Focal or Localization-Related Epilepsy) is epilepsy which arises from one or more parts of the brain. There are three types of seizures which can occur in partial epilepsy:
- Simple partial seizure (a partial seizure without loss of consciousness), also known as an aura. The seizure involves a small region of brain, and the person has some internal sensation but is still aware and able to talk. Others often cannot tell it is happening. The sensation is different depending on the function of the involved brain region. Auras can include abnormal smells, tastes, sensations in the stomach or chest, tingling or twitching of a limb, hallucinations of sounds or sights, emotion (often fear), or abnormal memory sensations (déjà vu). Episodes may last seconds or minutes.
- Complex partial seizure (partial seizure with loss of consciousness). A larger region of brain is involved. The person may seem awake (eyes open), and even have some minimal responsiveness, but often there is inability to respond or follow commands. The person may just stare quietly, or may have repetitive movements (lip-smacking or swallowing, fiddling with the hands). Sometimes there is agitation or restlessness, or even wild flailing movements of all the limbs. Episodes may last one-half to 3 minutes typically, often followed by confusion or headache and lack of awareness that it occurred.
- Generalized tonic-clonic seizure (grand mal convulsion). This occurs when the seizure has spread to the entire brain. It may or may not follow an aura or complex partial seizure.
Partial seizures most often come from a part of the brain called the temporal lobe (located under the temple), but can also come from other parts of the brain. Video-EEG testing can help pinpoint the location. An MRI scan can help to show what is causing the epilepsy. There are many possible causes of partial epilepsy: injury, scar tissue, tumors, brain infections, blood vessel abnormalities, strokes, and birth defects are common causes. Usually the injury occurred some time in the past, but the seizures may begin months or years later.
Treatment starts with anti-epileptic medication. Medications may control the seizures but do not eliminate the underlying problem. The doctor and nurse will discuss the treatment plan with you and are happy to answer any questions. Take the medication as prescribed. If you think you are having any side effects, or it is not working well enough, please contact your neurologist immediately for advice.
In some cases seizures are resistant to medication. In many of these cases surgery to remove the cause of the seizures can be very effective. When surgery is not possible, there are other options such as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), or diet therapy (ketogenic or modified Atkins diets). You should discuss these possibilities with your doctor.
For more information: www.epilepsy.com
Authored by: Eric B. Geller, MD