idiopathic epilepsy

idiopathic epilepsy

n.

Epilepsy without evident cause.

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epilepsy

paroxysmal transient disturbances of nervous system function resulting from abnormal electrical activity of the brain. It is not a specific disease, but rather a group of signs that are manifestations of any of a number of conditions that overstimulate the brain. Such signs include episodic impairment or loss of consciousness, abnormal motor phenomena or convulsions, psychic or sensory disturbances or perturbation of the autonomic nervous system. The term is often used interchangeably with seizures or convulsions.

There are several methods for classifying the various types of epilepsy. On the basis of origin, epilepsy is idiopathic (cryptogenic, essential, genetic) or symptomatic (acquired, organic). Symptomatic epilepsy has a physical cause, for example, brain tumor, injury to the brain at birth, a wound or blow to the head, or an endocrine disorder.

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autonomic epilepsy

see visceral epilepsy (below).

cortical epilepsy

seizures originating from a discrete focus in the cerebrum. Called also partial seizures.

idiopathic epilepsy

no cause can be diagnosed during life and no lesions are demonstrable at autopsy. The diagnosis is made by ruling out all extracranial and other intracranial causes. In dogs, this disorder occurs most frequently in certain breeds, particularly German shepherd dogs, miniature poodles, Keeshonds, Tervuren shepherds and Beagles, in which it is regarded as an inherited trait. Generalized seizures begin occurring at a young age, typically from 1 to 3 years; the affected dog is otherwise normal. Called also true epilepsy.

In affected cattle seizures occur from 2 to 3 months of age. A form of idiopathic epilepsy has been recorded in horses.

Jacksonian epilepsy

see jacksonian epilepsy.

myoclonic epilepsy

see glycoproteinosis.

visceral epilepsy

a visceral response to a focus of irritation in the cerebral cortex, usually vomiting and diarrhea. Called also autonomic epilepsy.