[Ictal electroencephalographic subclinical pattern in a case of benign partial epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatric Neurology
• Epilepsy

Background:

• Benign partial epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) is a common childhood epilepsy syndrome.
• The typical EEG findings in BECTS include focal spikes in the centrotemporal regions.
• Limited literature exists on the specific ictal EEG patterns observed in BECTS.

Observation:

• A 7-year-old boy with a family history of seizures presented with a nocturnal seizure and transient left arm weakness.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) revealed bilateral centrotemporal spikes and a novel finding.
• Two prolonged subclinical rhythmic discharges of spike and wave were recorded in the right centrotemporal area.

Findings:

• The observed EEG pattern, characterized by prolonged subclinical rhythmic discharges, has not been previously reported in BECTS.
• This case highlights potential variations in the ictal presentation of BECTS.
• Normal neuroimaging and developmental history were noted in the patient.

Implications:

• This case expands the spectrum of known EEG ictal patterns in benign partial epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes.
• Further research may elucidate the significance and prevalence of these prolonged rhythmic discharges in BECTS.
• Clinicians should be aware of atypical EEG findings in diagnosing and managing BECTS.