BRE or Benign Rolandic Epilepsy is a type of epilepsy in childhood characterized by seizures in the brain’s motor cortex. The motor cortex is responsible for movement, so when seizures occur in this area of the brain, they can cause muscle weakness, stiffness, or twitching. BRE is the most common type of childhood epilepsy. It is generally considered a benign condition, meaning it is not life-threatening and does not typically cause any long-term problems.
Causes Benign Rolandic Epilepsy
BRE is the most common type of childhood epilepsy, accounting for approximately 20-30% of all cases. The disorder involves seizures of the face, lips, and tongue, typically occurring during sleep. While the cause of BRE is unknown, several theories have been proposed. One theory suggests that the condition is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the development of the central nervous system. Another theory suggests that BRE is caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Symptoms of Benign Rolandic Epilepsy
Benign Rolandic epilepsy is the most common form of childhood epilepsy. It typically begins between the ages of 3 and 13. The majority of children with benign Rolandic epilepsy outgrow this condition by the time they reach adulthood. The main symptom of benign Rolandic epilepsy is seizures that affect the muscles on one side of the face. These seizures often occur at night and can last for a few seconds to a few minutes. Other symptoms may include:
-Grunting or choking sounds
-Uncontrollable twitching of the face or body
-Loss of consciousness
-Confusion
-Drowsiness
If your child has any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. Benign Rolandic epilepsy is generally a benign condition, but it’s important to rule out any other potential health problems.
How is benign Rolandic epilepsy diagnosed?
Rolandic epilepsy is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and neurological testing. The first step is to obtain a detailed medical history from the patient or the patient’s family, as this will help to rule out other potential causes of the seizures.
The next step is a physical examination. This will help the doctor to rule out any other potential causes of the seizures. The doctor will also likely order some neurological testing. This may include an electroencephalogram (EEG) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that measures electrical activity in the brain. This activity is measured by placing electrodes on the scalp. The test is used to help diagnose conditions that affect the brain, such as seizures, sleep disorders, and concussions.
The EEG is a valuable tool in diagnosing benign Rolandic epilepsy (BRE), a type of childhood epilepsy. Children with BRE often have seizures that start in the Rolandic region of the brain. This region is responsible for movement and feeling in the face and tongue.
The seizures in BRE are often brief and stop on their own. However, they can be disruptive and cause problems with learning and development. An EEG can help diagnose BRE by showing abnormal brain activity in the Rolandic region.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create pictures of the inside of your body. An MRI can be used to diagnose and track many conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders.
In some cases, an MRI may be used to diagnose benign Rolandic epilepsy. This type of epilepsy is characterized by seizures that originate in the motor cortex of the brain. The motor cortex is responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement.
Benign Rolandic epilepsy is typically diagnosed in children between the ages of 3 and 12. The condition is usually outgrown by adolescence. MRI is often used to confirm the diagnosis of benign Rolandic epilepsy and to rule out other potential causes of seizures, such as tumors or stroke.
Treatment for Benign Rolandic Epilepsy
BRE or Benign Rolandic Epilepsy is also referred to as BECTS or Benign Childhood Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes. This is a type of epilepsy that typically begins in childhood. The disorder is characterized by seizures that occur mainly in the lower part of the brain and affect the muscles of the face, tongue, and jaw. Benign Rolandic Epilepsy is a common epilepsy among children, and most children with the condition outgrow it by adolescence.
There is no cure for Benign Rolandic Epilepsy, but the condition can be managed with medication. Treatment typically begins with a single anti-seizure drug, such as levetiracetam or carbamazepine. If the first medication is ineffective, other drugs may be tried. In some cases, a combination of two or more anti-seizure drugs may be necessary to control the seizures. Surgery is rarely needed to treat Benign Rolandic Epilepsy. If you’re looking for additional treatment options for Benign Rolandic Epilepsy, you can check out epilepsy new treatment at Power.