Hippocampal sclerosis
Neuronal cell loss and gliosis in the hippocampus, the most common pathology in temporal lobe epilepsy.
Full Definition
Hippocampal sclerosis is the characteristic pathological finding in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, consisting of selective neuronal cell loss and astrocytic proliferation primarily affecting the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus. This condition is strongly associated with a history of febrile seizures or other early brain insults. On MRI, it appears as hippocampal atrophy with increased T2 signal intensity. Hippocampal sclerosis is the most common surgically remediable cause of focal epilepsy and is associated with excellent surgical outcomes following temporal lobectomy.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as HS in clinical notes; specify unilateral or bilateral when applicable.
In Context
- "MRI demonstrated left hippocampal sclerosis with associated volume loss and signal hyperintensity." — Radiology report
- "Pathological examination confirmed hippocampal sclerosis with severe neuronal loss in CA1 and CA3 fields." — Surgical pathology report