ictal

Full Definition

Relating to or occurring during an actual seizure event, describing the clinical manifestations, EEG changes, or imaging findings that occur while a patient is actively seizing. Ictal phenomena include the observable seizure behaviors, associated EEG patterns showing rhythmic or evolving epileptiform activity, and any physiological changes that occur during the seizure itself. Capturing ictal events through video-EEG monitoring is essential for seizure characterization, localization of the seizure focus, and surgical planning in refractory epilepsy cases.

In Context

• "Ictal EEG demonstrated rhythmic theta activity originating from the right frontal region." — Video-EEG monitoring report
• "The patient's ictal behavior consisted of staring, oral automatisms, and right arm posturing." — Seizure semiology description