A Look at the Role of PET Scan in Epilepsy Diagnosis and Treatment

Epilepsy is commonly known as the condition wherein the patient suddenly experiences unprovoked and recurrent seizures. It is considered to be neurological in nature as the seizures are said to be a result of a sudden electrical surge in the brain.

The most obvious symptom of epilepsy is the sudden jerking movement of the limbs. Usually, however, this is also accompanied by other signs such as suddenly staring into space, temporary confusion, or even loss of consciousness or awareness.

Although there may be varying symptoms, individuals with the condition may exhibit the same ones, thus creating a pattern. It is in this pattern that it becomes easy to foresee if an epilepsy attack is imminent.

Diagnosis

How do you determine, though, if you are suffering from epilepsy? Apart from the telltale seizures, the other symptoms are rather common and so can easily be misconstrued as symptoms of another condition.

For example, clumsiness or sudden falls can also be symptom of epilepsy, as well as sudden stomach pain and sleepiness. Irritability when being woken up is also a sign of epilepsy. Basically, these are things that could occur to just about anyone and yet it does not necessarily mean they are suffering from epilepsy.

To confirm the condition, suspected patients are usually given a neurological examination wherein their motor abilities, behavior, and mental functions, among others are tested. Another is through blood tests, wherein the drawn sample is checked for signs of infection in the blood, or genetic conditions that could be contributing to the seizure.

PET Scans for Diagnosis

The role of PET scans in the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy is crucial. With its help, doctors can accurately identify the area that is triggering the seizures. Once they find out where it is, then they’ll know which area to focus on. The imaging results also prove very helpful because it gives them a clear picture of what the problem is and, therefore, be able to apply the required treatment for it.

Sources:

Epilepsy: Signs & Symptoms. Epilepsy Foundation.

Epilepsy: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic.