A generalized seizure disorder characterized by recurrent major motor seizures. The initial brief tonic phase is marked by trunk flexion followed by diffuse extension of the trunk and extremities. The clonic phase features rhythmic flexor contractions of the trunk and limbs, pupillary dilation, elevations of blood pressure and pulse, urinary incontinence, and tongue biting. This is followed by a profound state of depressed consciousness (post-ictal state) which gradually improves over minutes to hours. The disorder may be cryptogenic, familial, or symptomatic (caused by an identified disease process). (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p329)

Annotation

do not confuse with EPILEPSY, TONIC see EPILEPSY, GENERALIZED

DUI

D004830 MeSH Browser

CUI

M0007573

History note

1992(1963)

Public note

1992; see EPILEPSY, GRAND MAL 1963-1991