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Related Concept Videos

Epilepsy ll: Types01:22

Epilepsy ll: Types

Recurrent seizures, stemming from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, are the defining characteristic of epilepsy, a chronic neurological condition. Because seizure features vary greatly, epilepsy is classified using two systems: by seizure type and by epilepsy syndromes. These classifications enable clinicians to describe seizure patterns and select suitable treatment strategies.I. Classification by Seizure Type1. Focal EpilepsyFocal epilepsy begins in one hemisphere of the brain.
Seizures: Classification01:13

Seizures: Classification

Epilepsy is primarily characterized by unpredictable seizures, either provoked by an identifiable factor, such as injury or illness, or unprovoked, occurring spontaneously without apparent cause.
Seizures are typically classified into two main categories: focal and generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures originate from specific regions of the brain. These seizures are further sub-classified into two types:
Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview01:24

Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease marked by recurrent, unpredictable seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, leading to behavior, sensation, or consciousness alterations. They can also cause transient impairment of awareness, interfering with daily activities.
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
Seizures l: Introduction01:20

Seizures l: Introduction

Understanding seizures and epilepsy relies on key definitions that help in recognizing, classifying, and managing these disorders. These definitions provide a framework for recognizing, classifying, and managing seizure disorders.DefinitionsA seizure is a sudden, abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in awareness, movement, sensation, or behavior, depending on the area involved. Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures,...
Seizures ll: Types01:19

Seizures ll: Types

Seizures are sudden bursts of abnormal electrical discharge in the brain that interfere with normal function. They are commonly divided into three groups: focal seizures, generalized seizures, and other types that do not fit neatly into either category.Focal SeizuresFocal seizures begin in a single brain region. When awareness is preserved, they are called focal aware seizures and may cause sensations such as tingling, unusual smells, or flashing lights. When awareness is impaired, they are...
Antiepileptic Drugs: Glutamate Antagonists01:14

Antiepileptic Drugs: Glutamate Antagonists

Glutamate is a fundamental neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, playing a vital role in neuronal communication and various cognitive processes. Glutamate stands as the principal excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Its presence is crucial for the communication between neurons, underpinning essential processes such as synaptic transmission, neuronal excitability, and plasticity. These functions are vital for higher-order cognitive processes, including learning and memory. The...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 18, 2026

Electromagnetic Source Imaging in Presurgical Evaluation of Children with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
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Electromagnetic Source Imaging in Presurgical Evaluation of Children with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy

Published on: September 20, 2024

Epilepsy: mimics, borderland and chameleons.

Phil E M Smith1

  • 1Department of Neurology, The Epilepsy Unit, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF14 4XW, UK. smithpe@cf.ac.uk

Practical Neurology
|September 15, 2012
PubMed
Summary

Epilepsy mimics and related conditions can be misdiagnosed. This review highlights epilepsy chameleons, which are epileptic seizures disguised as other conditions, emphasizing accurate diagnosis in adults.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Clinical Neuroscience

Background:

  • Epilepsy diagnosis can be challenging due to conditions mimicking seizures.
  • Distinguishing epilepsy from its mimics is crucial for appropriate patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review epilepsy mimics in adults.
  • To explore conditions on the epilepsy borderland.
  • To focus on epilepsy chameleons, which are epileptic seizures presenting atypically.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epilepsy mimics.
  • Analysis of conditions closely related to, yet distinct from, epilepsy.
  • Identification and discussion of atypical epileptic seizures.

Main Results:

  • Epilepsy mimics (e.g., syncope, psychogenic attacks) can lead to misdiagnosis and incorrect treatment.

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Using a Bipolar Electrode to Create a Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Mouse Model by Electrical Kindling of the Amygdala
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  • Borderland conditions (e.g., migralepsy, parasomnia) present diagnostic challenges.
  • Epilepsy chameleons, including unusual lobe seizures or those in specific contexts (e.g., alcoholism), may be overlooked.

    • Conclusions:

    • Accurate differentiation of epilepsy from its mimics and borderland conditions is essential.
    • Recognizing epilepsy chameleons improves diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
    • Further clinical awareness is needed for challenging epilepsy presentations.