Spontaneous facial expressions occurring at onset of focal seizure activity

Examination of the simultaneously recorded EEG and video taped behavior of patients during seizures activated by pentylenetetrazol-bemigride revealed a variety of spontaneous facial expressions at the electroclinical seizure onset. Neutral and sad expressions were observed most often, followed in frequency by expressions of fear, surprise, and happiness. Expressions of disgust and anger were rare. There was no consistent relation between side of seizure onset and type of spontaneous facial expression.