Complex partial epilepsy, also known as focal impaired awareness seizures, is a type of epilepsy characterized by sudden and recurrent seizures that originate in a specific area of the brain. These seizures are termed "complex" because they involve an alteration of consciousness or awareness during the episode.
During a complex partial seizure, the person typically experiences a sudden onset of behavioral and cognitive changes. This can include confusion, staring spells, repetitive movements, fumbling, lip smacking, and mumbling. The individual may also engage in purposeless or automatic behaviors and may not respond to external stimuli or instructions during the seizure. The seizure typically lasts for a brief period, ranging from seconds to a few minutes. Following the seizure, there is often a period of postictal confusion and fatigue.
The seizures in complex partial epilepsy are caused by abnormal electrical activity in a localized area of the brain, known as the seizure focus. The exact cause of these seizures can vary, including factors such as brain injury, infection, genetic predisposition, or structural abnormalities in the brain.
Diagnosis of complex partial epilepsy involves a thorough medical evaluation, including a detailed history of the seizure events and their characteristics. Brain imaging techniques, such as MRI or CT scans, may be used to identify any structural abnormalities. Electroencephalography (EEG) is also commonly utilized to record the brain's electrical activity and detect abnormal patterns indicative of epilepsy.
Complex partial epilepsy is typically managed with antiepileptic medications to reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the seizure focus or implant devices such as a vagus nerve stimulator to control the seizures.
