Abstract
Background Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) which is among idiopathic generalized epilepsies presents with myoclonus and/or generalized tonic–clonic seizures during puberty. Electrophysiological studies showed findings at several levels including cortex, thalamus and spinal cord in JME. Given these information, we aimed to analyze electrophysiological findings at the level of brainstem using blink reflex (BR) and blink reflex recovery cycle (BR-RC). Methods Eighteen JME patients and age and sex matched 18 healthy volunteers are included in the study. BR and BR-RC with interstimulus intervals of 200 ms and 400 ms were recorded over orbicularis oculi on the nondominant side under the same conditions. Results JME patients had longer onset latencies ( p = 0.046) and higher amplitudes ( p = 0.022) of R2 component of BR. Recovery of responses after double stimulation with interstimulus interval of 400 ms was higher in JME patients ( p = 0.040). Use of valproate did not have an impact on reflex responses. Conclusion Our results support increased excitability of BR pathway in JME without relevant pathological findings regarding BR.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
