What Are Focal Onset Seizures in Children?

Focal onset seizures are a type of seizure that begins in a specific part of the brain, called the focus. They can be either simple or complex.

Simple focal seizures do not involve loss of consciousness. They may cause physical symptoms such as jerking movements, muscle stiffness, or sensory changes such as tingling or numbness.

Complex focal seizures involve loss of consciousness. They may also cause physical symptoms such as jerking movements, muscle stiffness, or sensory changes. In addition, people may experience changes in their behavior, such as confusion, agitation, or fear.

Focal onset seizures can be caused by a variety of things, including:

* Brain injury

* Stroke

* Infection

* Tumor

* Genetic disorders

* Developmental abnormalities

In children, focal onset seizures are most often caused by developmental abnormalities. These abnormalities can include:

* Cortical dysplasia: This is a condition in which the cerebral cortex, the outermost layer of the brain, is abnormally developed.

* Hippocampal sclerosis: This is a condition in which the hippocampus, a part of the brain that is involved in memory, is damaged.

* Tuberous sclerosis: This is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow in the brain and other organs.

Focal onset seizures can be treated with medication, surgery, or a combination of both. The goal of treatment is to stop the seizures from happening or to reduce their severity.