Breakthrough seizures
Seizures that occur despite therapeutic antiseizure medication levels, or seizures that return after a period of good control.
Full Definition
Breakthrough seizures refer to seizures that occur in patients who have been seizure-free for a period while on antiseizure medications, or seizures that occur despite adequate medication levels. These episodes may result from various factors including medication non-adherence, drug interactions, illness, stress, sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, or disease progression. Investigation of breakthrough seizures requires careful evaluation of medication adherence, potential triggers, drug levels (when appropriate), and consideration of whether treatment adjustments are needed. The term helps distinguish these events from poorly controlled epilepsy.
Usage
Usage note: Implies previous seizure control, distinguishing from inadequately treated epilepsy.
In Context
- "The patient experienced breakthrough seizures after missing several doses of medication during travel." — Emergency department documentation
- "Investigation of breakthrough seizures revealed a significant drug interaction with newly prescribed antibiotics." — Clinical assessment report