Abstract
Abdominal epilepsy is often unrecognised as an epilepsy condition, particularly in adults. We present a rare adult patient who suffers daily episodes of abdominal pinching pain described lasting for 30 seconds, often evolving to loss of consciousness. Scalp EEG-video monitoring showed interictal left temporal slowing and frequent left temporal epileptiform discharges. Three stereotypical complex partial seizures consistent with her habitual attacks were recorded. Two seizures showed a left temporal onset and whereas the third one appeared to start on the right temporal lobe. In patients with paroxysms of abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, abdominal epilepsy should be considered after exclusion of the most common aetiologies for gastrointestinal conditions.
Highlights
Abdominal epilepsy is an uncommon syndrome in which paroxysmal symptoms resembling abdominal pathology result from seizure activity [1] [2]
In patients with paroxysms of abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, abdominal epilepsy should be considered after exclusion of the most common aetiologies for gastrointestinal conditions
Three complex partial seizures were recorded which were of similar semiology and consistent with her habitual attacks. (Figure 2b) During the attacks, she would refer an aura of abdominal pain, lose awareness and show a distressed look, engage in repetitive moaning and body rocking, followed by motionless staring lasting for approximately one minute
Summary
Abdominal epilepsy is an uncommon syndrome in which paroxysmal symptoms resembling abdominal pathology result from seizure activity [1] [2]. Abdominal sensations are common manifestations of seizures, symptoms resembling gastrointestinal conditions (such as abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea) are rare ictal symptoms, in adults. The syndrome of abdominal epilepsy is characterised by: 1) Otherwise unexplained, paroxysmal gastrointestinal complaints, mainly pain and vomiting; 2) Symptoms arise from a central nerv-. The characteristic seizures in abdominal epilepsy consist of paroxysmal episodes of abdominal pain or diverse abdominal complaints associated with EEG abnormalities and usually favourable response to the introduction of anticonvulsants [1]. We discuss one adult patient with recurrent abdominal pain, with associated symptoms suggestive of left temporal epilepsy, definite EEG and video-EEG abnormalities and a response to anticonvulsant drugs.
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