Prognosis of Myoclonic Seizures

Myoclonic seizures may occur as a symptom of juvenile myclonic epilepsy, progressive myclonic epilepsy or Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. Myoclonic seizures associated with juvenile myclonic epilepsy are usually mild and easily controlled with medications. Myclonic seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome are difficult to control with medications, and those associated with progressive myoclonic epilepsy worsen over time.

Features

• Myoclonic seizures, a type of generalized seizure, involve the sudden contractions of muscles. These seizures are very brief and usually affect both sides of the body. Myclonic seizures typically affect the shoulders, arms and neck.

Time Frame

• Myoclonic seizures typically begin during adolescence and continue throughout life. Myclonic seizures most often occur not long after waking up in the morning.

Considerations

• The prognosis of those affected with myoclonic seizures depends upon the underlying disorder causing the seizures. Epileptic disorders, such as juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, are typically well-controlled with medications, but other conditions, such as Gastaut syndrome and progressive myoclonic epilepsy, prove difficult to treat.

Diagnosis

• Myoclonic seizures should be addressed with a physician, preferably a neurologist. An EEG can confirm the presence and type of seizures.

Prevention/Solution

• Anti-epileptic medications can prevent myoclonic seizures in most cases. Such medications include Cerebyx, Depakote, Dilantin and Tegretol.