ABPN ABPN Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders

Question 1

According to the 2017 ILAE classification, which of the following is correctly categorized as a focal seizure type?

Accepted Answer

Focal aware seizure

Answer

Focal aware seizure is the updated ILAE 2017 term for what was previously called a simple partial seizure, indicating preserved awareness during the event.

Question 2

What EEG pattern is most characteristic of childhood absence epilepsy?

Accepted Answer

3 Hz generalized spike-and-wave discharges

Answer

Childhood absence epilepsy classically produces 3 Hz generalized spike-and-wave discharges on EEG, often triggered by hyperventilation.

Question 3

Which is the most common cause of new-onset epilepsy in adults over 60 years of age?

Accepted Answer

Cerebrovascular disease

Answer

Cerebrovascular disease (stroke) is the leading identifiable cause of epilepsy in older adults, accounting for approximately 30-40% of cases.

Question 4

A 22-year-old has brief morning myoclonic jerks shortly after awakening and occasional generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Which epilepsy syndrome is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy

Answer

Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) classically presents in adolescence or young adulthood with myoclonic jerks on awakening, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and absence seizures.

Question 5

Which seizure type is characterized by a sudden loss of postural muscle tone, often causing the patient to fall?

Accepted Answer

Atonic seizure

Answer

Atonic seizures (drop attacks) involve sudden loss of muscle tone, causing abrupt falls; they are associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Practice Test

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Practice Test

ABPN ABPN Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders