Intermediate
Technical
IVT
GTCS
Also written as: GTCS — Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure
Generalized tonic-clonic seizure involving stiffening and rhythmic jerking.
Full Definition
Generalized tonic-clonic seizures represent the classic 'grand mal' seizure pattern, characterized by initial tonic stiffening followed by clonic jerking movements affecting the entire body. GTCS may be primarily generalized or secondarily generalized from a focal onset. Medical editors must distinguish between these subtypes as they have different implications for treatment and prognosis, with focal-to-bilateral tonic-clonic seizures requiring different therapeutic approaches.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred abbreviation in clinical documentation. Avoid outdated 'grand mal' terminology.
In Context
- "The patient experienced a GTCS lasting two minutes with postictal confusion." — Emergency department record
- "GTCS frequency decreased from weekly to monthly with medication adjustment." — Follow-up clinic note
Also known as
tonic-clonic seizure
grand mal seizure
Contrasted with
absence seizure
focal seizure
Don't confuse with
tonic seizure
clonic seizure