Generalized versus partial reflex seizures: a review.
In this review we assess our currently available knowledge about reflex seizures with special emphasis on the difference between "generalized" reflex seizures induced by visual stimuli, thinking, praxis and language tasks, and "focal" seizures induced by startle, eating, music, hot water, somatosensory stimuli and orgasm. We discuss in particular evidence from animal, clinical, neurophysiological and neuroimaging studies supporting the concept that "generalized" reflex seizures, usually occurring in the setting of IGE, should be considered as focal seizures with quick secondary generalization. We also review recent advances in genetic and therapeutic approach of reflex seizures.
Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy.
Domenico
D
Italiano
Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Regional Epilepsy Centre, Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli Hospital, Reggio Calabria, Italy. Electronic address: ferlazzo@unicz.it.
Edoardo
E
Ferlazzo
Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy.
Sara
S
Gasparini
Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy.
Edoardo
E
Spina
Department of Neuroscience, University of Messina, Italy.
Stefania
S
Mondello
Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy.
Angelo
A
Labate
Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; National Research Council, Piano Lago di Mangone, Cosenza, Italy.
Antonio
A
Gambardella
Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy; Regional Epilepsy Centre, Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli Hospital, Reggio Calabria, Italy.
Umberto
U
Aguglia
D000818:Animals; D020195:Epilepsy, Reflex / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D010812:Physical Stimulation / Q000009:adverse effects; D012640:Seizures / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology
Genetic; Musicogenic; Photosensitivity; Prognosis; Startle; Treatment