What is a basic classification of seizure types?
Clear classification schemes for seizures exist. The current preferred terminology makes use of several key words and modifiers and is based on video-EEG documentation. “Partial” is used to describe isolated phenomena that reflect focal cortical activity, either evident clinically or by electroencephalogram (EEG). The term “simple” indicates that consciousness is not impaired. For example, a seizure visible as a momentarily twitching upper extremity which subsides would be termed a simple partial seizure with motor activity. Additional modifiers are added to note the specific area of the body involved, for example, upper extremity or lower extremity. Partial seizures may have motor, somatosensory, psychic, or autonomic symptoms. The term “complex” denotes an alteration of consciousness associated with the seizure. “Generalization” is a term used to denote spread from a focal area of the cortex, either evident clinically by EEG, to involve all areas of the cortex with resulting generali
