Electrophysiological characterisation of myoclonic-atonic seizures in symptomatic continuous spike-waves during slow sleep syndrome.
Sudden epileptic falls are frequently reported in continuous spike-waves during slow sleep (CSWS) syndrome. Inhibitory seizures are usually considered as the underlying mechanism. However, published polygraphic recordings are rare. We report the case of a 22 month-old boy suffering from a symptomatic CSWS syndrome associated with a perinatal stroke involving the right middle cerebral artery territory. He presented with psychomotor regression and daily multiple falls related to myoclonic-atonic seizures. Neurophysiological examination showed secondary generalized myoclonus systematically correlated with a bilateral spike spreading from the right central area. This confirms that positive myoclonus, in addition to negative myoclonus, may be responsible for epileptic falls in CSWS syndrome. [Published with video sequences].
Vrielynck
Pascal
P
Service de neurologie, Hôpital de Jolimont, Haine Saint-Paul, Belgium. vrielynckp@hotmail.com
Defresne
Pierre
P
D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology*; D004569:Electroencephalography; D004594:Electrophysiology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D020768:Middle Cerebral Artery / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012043:Regression, Psychology; D012640:Seizures / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012890:Sleep; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D013577:Syndrome