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Gelastic seizures with dancing arising from the anterior prefrontal cortex
John Neilson1, Tom Snyder2, Jeff Pugh3
1Division of Pediatric Neurology, Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy.
Aim:
This case report provides insight into the function of the anterior prefrontal cortex (aPFC), specifically Brodmann Area 10 (BA10), and its interconnectivity.
Method:
We present a 10-year-old patient with lesional epilepsy and ictal onset, localised to BA10 in the aPFC.
Results:
Thirty-four seizures were recorded. All seizures involved a demonstration of elation with laughter that was associated with a variety of different patterns of complex motor behaviour that included performing specific celebratory movements and acting out a Michael Jackson dance move. Electrographically, the seizures were all stereotyped and arose from the right frontal region, followed by a distinct left temporal ictal rhythm that corresponded with the onset of the behaviours. The lesion in the right aPFC was identified as a mixed lesion with both dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumour cells and type II cortical dysplasia.
Conclusion:
The electrographic analysis and unique seizure semiology suggest a connection between the aPFC and the contralateral temporal lobe. This neural pathway appears to be involved in the activation of previously formed procedural memories, creating an intensely positive emotional experience.