The frontal arousal rhythm (FAR) is an ictal pattern: a case report

John R Hughes1

  • 1University of Illinois Medical Center, M/C 796, 912 S. Wood Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.

Insights

Frontal Arousal Rhythm (FAR), typically seen in children, was observed in a patient with seizures. Subtle facial movements during FAR suggest it is an ictal pattern, not just a sign of seizure disorder.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Clinical Neurophysiology

Background:

  • Frontal Arousal Rhythm (FAR) is a rare EEG pattern.
  • Typically observed in young children during sleep-wake transitions.
  • Previously considered a non-specific finding, sometimes associated with seizure disorders.

Observation:

  • A patient with a history of seizures presented with a rare Frontal Arousal Rhythm (FAR).
  • Subtle, sequential clinical changes were noted during the FAR pattern on video.
  • These changes included eyelid flutter, chewing, increased inspiration, and upper lip quivering.

Findings:

  • The observed clinical sequence during FAR was consistent across three separate episodes.
  • Each episode lasted between 6 and 10 seconds.
  • The findings challenge the traditional view of FAR as solely a sign of seizure disorder.

Implications:

  • This study suggests Frontal Arousal Rhythm (FAR) can represent an ictal pattern.
  • Re-evaluation of FAR's diagnostic significance in patients with epilepsy is warranted.
  • Further research is needed to understand the clinical correlates and prognostic value of FAR in epilepsy.

Related Concept Videos

Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias01:29

Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias

Dysrhythmias, also known as arrhythmias, are irregular heart rhythms that result from abnormal electrical activity in the heart, affecting its ability to circulate blood efficiently. Tachyarrhythmias, a subset of dysrhythmias, are characterized by abnormally fast heart rates exceeding 100 beats per minute. Here are some types of tachyarrhythmias with their distinct ECG features:Sinus Tachycardia:Sinus tachycardia presents a regular heart rhythm with an increased rate of 101-180 beats per minute.
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias01:18

Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias

Bradyarrhythmias are cardiac rhythm disorders characterized by a slower-than-normal heart rate, typically defined as fewer than 60 beats per minute. Some of which are discussed here:Sinus BradycardiaSinus bradycardia presents a heart rate lower than 60 beats per minute, with a regular rhythm originating from the SA node. The ECG typically shows normal P waves preceding each QRS complex, a normal PR interval (0.12 to 0.20 seconds), and a normal QRS duration (0.06 to 0.10 seconds).First-Degree AV...
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm01:29

Disturbances in Heart Rhythm

Arrhythmia or dysrhythmia refers to an abnormal heart rhythm caused by a defect in the heart's conduction system. It can cause the heart to beat irregularly, too quickly, or too slowly, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting. Factors such as stress, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, certain drugs, congenital defects, diseases, and electrolyte abnormalities can trigger arrhythmias.
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias01:25

ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias

Arrhythmia is a condition characterized by an irregular heart rhythm, with ECG changes that differ based on its origin and nature. The types of arrhythmias discussed below include atrial, junctional, and ventricular arrhythmias.Atrial ArrhythmiasPremature Atrial Complexes (PACs): PACs are early atrial beats caused by stress, caffeine, alcohol, electrolyte imbalances, hypoxia, hyperthyroidism, or certain medications (e.g., bronchodilators and decongestants). The ECG shows early P waves with an...
Association Areas of the Cortex01:21

Association Areas of the Cortex

Association areas are regions of the cerebral cortex that do not have a specific sensory or motor function. Instead, they integrate and interpret information from various sources to enable higher cognitive processes such as memory, learning, and decision-making. Some key association areas include the following:
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...