About Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
What is Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy?
Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (BFMTLE) is a rare form of epilepsy that is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. It is characterized by recurrent seizures that originate in the mesial temporal lobe of the brain. These seizures typically begin in childhood or adolescence and can last for several minutes. Symptoms may include confusion, memory loss, and auras. Treatment typically involves antiepileptic medications and lifestyle modifications.
What are the symptoms of Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy?
The most common symptoms of Benign Familial Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy (BFMTLE) include:
• Simple partial Seizures (focal seizures)
• Complex partial Seizures (psychomotor seizures)
• Atypical absence seizures
• Autonomic symptoms such as sweating, flushing, and nausea
• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Visual disturbances
• Auditory disturbances
• Headache
• Dizziness
What are the causes of Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy?
The exact cause of Benign Familial Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy (BFMTLE) is unknown. However, it is believed to be an inherited disorder, as it is often seen in families with a history of the condition. It is thought to be caused by a genetic mutation that affects the brain's electrical activity. Other possible causes include environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins or certain medications.
What are the treatments for Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy?
1. Medication: Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the mainstay of treatment for benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. AEDs can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
2. Surgery: Surgery may be recommended for people with benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy who do not respond to medication. The most common type of surgery is temporal lobectomy, which involves removing part of the temporal lobe.
3. Dietary Therapy: The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been shown to reduce seizure frequency in some people with benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy.
4. Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a treatment that involves sending electrical signals to the brain via the vagus nerve. It has been shown to
What are the risk factors for Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy?
1. Family history of Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (BFMTLE)
2. Age of onset between 5 and 20 years
3. Female gender
4. History of febrile seizures
5. History of head trauma
6. History of migraine headaches
7. History of sleep disturbances
8. History of psychiatric disorders
9. History of alcohol or drug abuse
10. Genetic mutations in the LGI1 gene
Is there a cure/medications for Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy?
Yes, there are medications available to treat Benign familial mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. These medications include antiepileptic drugs such as carbamazepine, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and topiramate. Additionally, some people may benefit from vagus nerve stimulation or surgery.