Semiology of epileptic seizures: A clinical challenge

Semiología de la crisis epiléptica: un reto clínico

Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder characterised by recurrent seizures that are self-limited and of diverse aetiology, in which the clinical manifestations include a wide range of signs and symptoms in relation to the cortical areas stimulated. Semiology consider and properly differentiates the epileptogenic and the symptomatogenic zone in the clear context of the art of semiological interpretation that combines adequate knowledge of cortical functions and the corresponding recognition of lateraliser and localiser signs of the seizure focus, in order to properly determine the type of epilepsy or epileptic syndrome. The aim of this article is to present clear and concise findings in the clinical presentation of the main forms of epilepsy and epileptic syndromes in relation to the function of the cortical lobes, which allow us greater introspection and skill in clinical practice in the rapid and timely diagnosis. The diagnosis depends upon a number of factors, particularly the detailed and accurate recording of the history of the seizure, or semiology.

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