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The frontal arousal rhythm (FAR) is an ictal pattern: a case report
1University of Illinois Medical Center, M/C 796, 912 S. Wood Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
Clinical EEG (Electroencephalography)
|January 8, 2003
Summary
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.