Adult-onset seizures: clinical solutions to a challenging patient work-up
Eisenschenk, S.; Gilmore, R.
Geriatrics 54(11): 18-19; 22-4; 27-28 Passim
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-867X PMID: 10570654 Document Number: 500152
The age-related increase in the incidence of seizures in older persons is directly related to the increase in prevalence of causative factors such as cardiovascular disease and stroke, primary and metastatic brain tumors, toxic-metabolic disturbances, and medications. Because the treatment plan depends on seizure etiology, comprehensive evaluation of each of these causes is imperative. Reliable history and thorough physical examination remain the most important steps for diagnosis and effective treatment. Nevertheless, assessment and treatment of new-onset paroxysmal events can be problematic, because numerous morbidities and syndromes--including transient ischemic attack, syncope, drug intoxication, amnesia, movement disorders, and psychiatric disorders--can present with similar symptomology.