Versive seizures, also known as versive epilepsy or versive movements, are a type of focal onset seizure that is characterized by brief, involuntary movements or turning of the head, eyes, or body to one side. These seizures are often referred to as "versive" because the term comes from the Latin word "vertere," meaning "to turn."
During a versive seizure, the individual may experience a sudden and uncontrolled turning of the head, usually to one side. This can be accompanied by movements of the eyes in the same direction, resulting in a deviation of gaze. In some cases, the entire body may also turn towards one side. These movements are involuntary and cannot be consciously controlled by the individual.
Versive seizures are typically short-lived, lasting only a few seconds to minutes, and may be followed by confusion or disorientation. They are commonly associated with certain types of epilepsy syndromes, such as temporal lobe epilepsy. However, they can also occur as a result of other underlying neurological conditions or brain lesions.
The diagnosis of versive seizures involves a thorough medical evaluation, including a detailed history, physical examination, and additional diagnostic tests such as electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brain activity during a seizure event.
Treatment for versive seizures often involves the use of antiepileptic medications, which aim to control and reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. In some cases, surgical intervention may be considered if the seizures are resistant to medications or if there is an identifiable structural abnormality in the brain causing the seizures. Regular follow-up with a neurologist is necessary to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
