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JUVENILE MYOCLONIC EPILEPSY

OVERVIEW

This syndrome is one of the most common genetic/idiopathic generalized epilepsies and is characterized by myoclonic and generalized tonic-clonic seizures in an otherwise normal adolescent or adult. The EEG shows generalized spike-and-wave and polyspike-and-wave. Photosensitivity is common.

Clinical context

This syndrome is characterized by myoclonic seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures that have onset between 8 to 25 years of age. A small number (approximately 5%) of cases evolve into this syndrome from childhood absence epilepsy. Both males and females are equally affected. Antecedent and birth history is normal. Development and cognition are typically normal. Neurological examination and head size are normal. A history of febrile seizures is seen in 5-10%.

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