Changes in cerebral hemodynamics during simple partial motor seizures

Changes in cerebral perfusion were studied during nine short-lasting simple partial motor seizures (SPS) in an 11-year-old girl. Blood flow velocity c hanges in both middle cerebral arteries (MCAs) were assessed by transcrania l Doppler sonography during simultaneous EEG monitoring, Within 7.4 +/- 1.4 s after electroencephalographic seizure onset, flow velocity in the MCA ip silateral to the electrical discharges started to increase and then gradual ly rose up to 70% above baseline values. Spread of the epileptic activity t o the other hemisphere in the late stage of seizure was associated with a s light increase in blood flow velocity (<30%) in the contralateral MCA. Afte r the end of the seizure, flow velocities returned to baseline within 47 +/ - 7 s. Our findings indicate that focal epileptic seizures evoke asymmetric perfusion increases which are closely related to the onset and cessation o f the electroencephalographic seizure activity. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karge r AG, Basel.