Definition
Formerly known as “complex partial seizures,” focal seizures with impaired consciousness or awareness or responsiveness are defined by the International League Against Epilepsy as focal seizures with “dyscognitive” symptoms as their primary feature, i.e. an altered state of awareness, consciousness, and/or responsiveness. This seizure type is now commonly referred to as Focal dyscognitive seizures (FCS).
FDS originate in a single hemisphere of the brain and may begin with a focal seizure with retained consciousness or awareness (formerly known as a simple partial seizure), also referred to as an aura. This commonly consists of feelings of emotional, ideational, or sensory changes. Once consciousness, awareness, or responsiveness become impaired, individuals with FDS may experience automatisms, which are often characterized as repetitive, semi-purposeful involuntary movements. The specific paroxysmal behavior changes correspond to the seizure focus and the progression...
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Barr, W.B., Bender, H.A., Bind, R. (2018). Complex Partial Seizure. In: Kreutzer, J.S., DeLuca, J., Caplan, B. (eds) Encyclopedia of Clinical Neuropsychology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-57111-9_1040
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