New onset seizures as a sole clinical presentation of multiple sclerosis

Mult Scler. 2019 Feb;25(2):295-299. doi: 10.1177/1352458518781994. Epub 2018 Jun 19.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Epileptic seizures frequently occur in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and are thought to represent a manifestation of cortical pathology. However, at present, seizures are not considered to be a typical clinical presentation of demyelination.

Methods and results: In this case series, we identified four people, who presented with seizures as a sole presenting feature, with demyelinating imaging abnormalities that satisfy current diagnostic criteria for a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) or early MS.

Conclusion: Based on this case series, we propose that people presenting with de novo seizures, with concurrent radiological abnormalities suggestive of demyelination could potentially be considered to have a CIS.

Keywords: Multiple sclerosis; cortical lesions; electroencephalogram; epilepsy; temporal lobe.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Multiple Sclerosis / complications*
  • Seizures / etiology*
  • Young Adult