Generalized epilepsy and classic spike-wave discharges with unilateral thalamic lesions.
BACKGROUND
Idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) is a heterogeneous condition with a predominantly genetic origin. Clinical hallmarks of IGE syndromes include generalized spike and wave discharges and normal results on brain imaging.


OBJECTIVE
To describe 2 patients with clinical presentations compatible with IGE but whose imaging studies revealed unilateral thalamic lesions.


METHODS
Case reports.


METHODS
University-affiliated hospitals.


METHODS
Two 21-year-old patients (1 man and 1 woman).


METHODS
Magnetic resonance imaging findings.


RESULTS
Magnetic resonance imaging unexpectedly revealed unilateral thalamic lesions.


CONCLUSIONS
We recommend doing magnetic resonance imaging studies in patients with IGE, especially in refractory or atypical cases. In rare cases, clinical features compatible with IGE may be associated with structural thalamic or other lesions.
Nguyen
Dang K
DK
Department of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Université de Montréal (Hôpital Notre-Dame), 1560 Sherbrooke E., Montréal, Quebec. d.nguyen@umontreal.ca
Podubnaia
Ala B
AB
Carmant
Lionel
L
Guilbert
François
F
Cossette
Patrick
P
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000473:pathology*; D004569:Electroencephalography / Q000379:methods; D004829:Epilepsy, Generalized / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D007839:Functional Laterality; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D013788:Thalamus / Q000473:pathology*