Professional
Technical
IVT
kindling
A neurophysiological phenomenon where repeated low-intensity electrical stimulation progressively lowers seizure threshold.
Full Definition
Kindling is an experimental model of epileptogenesis in which repeated application of initially subthreshold electrical stimuli to brain tissue gradually increases neural excitability until spontaneous seizures occur. This process demonstrates how repetitive neural activation can create permanent changes in brain circuitry. In clinical neurophysiology, kindling provides insights into how focal seizures may spread and generalize over time, and helps explain the progressive nature of some epilepsy syndromes.
Usage
Usage note: Refers specifically to the experimental/theoretical process, not to clinical seizure progression.
In Context
- "The patient's seizure pattern suggests a kindling-like progression from the temporal focus." — EEG report
- "Animal kindling models inform our understanding of temporal lobe epilepsy development." — Research methodology
Also known as
electrical kindling
Don't confuse with
status epilepticus
seizure clustering