Abstract

CAMPISTOL, Jaume. Paroxysmal events that are confused with epilepsy. Medicina (B. Aires) [online]. 2022, vol.82, suppl.3, pp.19-24. ISSN 0025-7680.

Non-epileptic paroxysmal events (NEPE) are defined as episodes of sudden onset and short duration that mimic an epileptic seizure, caused by a brain dysfunction of diverse origin and, unlike epilepsy, are not due to excessive neuronal discharge. Its incidence is much higher than epilepsy and can appear at any age, but are more frequent in the first years of life. The immaturity of the central nervous system in childhood favors that in this period the clinical manifestations are more spectacular and different from other ages. Normal and common phenomena in children can also be confused with epileptic seizures. The first step for a correct diagnosis is to establish whether this first episode corresponds to an epileptic seizure or could be a first episode of NEPE. It is important to follow a diagnostic protocol, assessing the personal and family history, without forgetting the physical examination, analyzing the possible triggering factors, the details of each episode, if it’s possible a record of the episodes, applying common sense and experience and only carrying out basic complementary tests such as EEG recording or others in case of doubt or for diagnostic confirmation. In some cases, a genetic basis has been demonstrated. Therapeutic op tions are scarce and the majority of NEPE have a favorable evolution.

Keywords : Non-epileptic paroxysmal events; Epilepsy; Triggering factors; Differential diagnosis; EEG; Therapeuti cal options.

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