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[Asystole due to complex partial epilepsy]
H F Visée1, A Otten, M van de Ree
1Afd. Neurologie/Klinische Neurofysiologie, Ziekenhuis Leyenburg, Den Haag.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|April 18, 1998
Summary
Sudden loss of consciousness linked to cardiac asystole was treated with a pacemaker. Subsequent olfactory auras and epigastric sensations correlated with right-hemisphere epileptic activity, resolving with anticonvulsants.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Epileptology
Background:
- A 56-year-old male presented with recurrent syncope.
- Initial diagnosis of transient asystole (10s duration) led to pacemaker implantation.
Observation:
- Post-pacemaker, syncope ceased, but olfactory auras and epigastric sensations persisted.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) during an event revealed right-hemisphere epileptic activity concurrent with pacemaker rhythm.
Findings:
- Epileptic activity ceased, followed by restoration of normal sinus rhythm.
- Anticonvulsant therapy completely eliminated the recurrent sensory attacks.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential link between cardiac events, epilepsy, and specific aura symptoms.
- Suggests a need for comprehensive neurological and cardiac evaluation in patients with unexplained syncope and sensory disturbances.
- Underscores the efficacy of anticonvulsant treatment for seizure-related aura phenomena.