The Epilepsy Foundation defines seizure as a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that either excites or inhibits brain cells from sending messages. In and of itself, a seizure is not a disease. Rather, it is a symptom or a serious sign of an underlying condition affecting the brain. In some cases, seizures can be hardly noticed, which makes it harder for both patients and doctors to pinpoint their likely causes.
Causes of Seizures
Specific signs of seizures depend on which part of the brain is affected. Genetic factors may also play a significant role in the type of seizure one experiences. However, among the most common symptoms include sudden falling, teeth clenching, temporary stop in breathing, loss of bladder or bowel control, grunting, snorting, unexplained mood changes, brief blackout, drooling or frothing at the mouth, uncontrolled muscle spasms and shaking of the entire body.
When doctors suspect patients to have experienced a seizure, they are usually evaluated through a physical exam and neurological examination. A series of imaging tests may be ordered to identify the precise location of the seizure focus. Although modalities like MRI, Ictal SPECT, and MRS are crucial diagnostic procedures performed to patients who have seizures, PET scan remains the preferred method in diagnosis, especially in cases related to epilepsy.
During a PET scan, images will highlight the most active area of the brain through the increased use of glucose in between seizures. Physicians may then see and track the distinct patterns of reduced need for glucose to localize the seizure focus. The images produced during the scan can also be used in determining the right sites for surgical resection. Accuracy in localization of the foci of activity is vital in deciding which treatment will work best for a patient.
PET scan allows doctors to observe certain change in brain metabolism and chemistry in patients. This is why it is valuable in evaluating many medical conditions, such as epilepsy.