Partial Seizure

What Is It?

A partial seizure is a seizure which affects only one part of the brain, in contrast to a generalized seizure which involves the whole brain including both hemispheres.

There are several sub-types of partial epilepsy which vary in their clinical manifestations and symptoms. The specific symptoms a patient experiences during a partial event depend largely on the location of the seizure activity. While some, called complex partial, affect the level of consciousness of the patient, others do not, leaving the patient completely conscious during the seizure (called simple partial).

A common example of a partial event would be a patient who suffers sudden, uncontrolled arm twitching on one side while they are fully conscious. This may be caused by a simple partial epilepsy which involves the area of the motor cortex, the part of the brain that controls movement on the opposite side of the body.

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Some Common Types of Partial Epilepsy

• Simple Partial
• Complex Partial
• Partial with Secondary Generalization

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Important Note: This site is not intended to offer medical advice. Every patient is different, and only your personal physician can help to counsel you about what is best for your situation. What we offer is general reference information about various disorders and treatments for your education.