Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Seizure threshold
The level of neuronal excitability at which seizures are triggered in an individual brain.
Full Definition
Seizure threshold represents the critical level of brain excitability beyond which seizure activity occurs. This threshold varies between individuals and can be influenced by factors such as sleep deprivation, stress, medications, metabolic disturbances, and genetic predisposition. A low seizure threshold indicates increased susceptibility to seizures, while a high threshold suggests greater resistance. Understanding seizure threshold is essential for risk assessment, medication management, and lifestyle counseling in epilepsy patients.
Usage
Usage note: Often used in discussions of seizure risk factors and drug interactions.
In Context
- "Sleep deprivation significantly lowered the patient's seizure threshold." — Clinical observation
- "Certain medications can lower seizure threshold and should be used cautiously in epilepsy patients." — Prescribing guideline
Also known as
convulsive threshold
epileptic threshold
Don't confuse with
seizure frequency
seizure severity