Gelastic seizures with dancing arising from the anterior prefrontal cortex. Issue 2 (June 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Neilson, John; Snyder, Tom; Pugh, Jeff; Wheatley, Matt; Tang‐Wai, Richard
• Is Part Of: Epileptic disorders. Volume 16:Issue 2(2014:Jun.)
• Page Start: 233
• Page End: 237
• Publication Date: 2014-06
• Subjects: Epilepsy -- Periodicals; 616.853
• DOI: 10.1684/epd.2014.0659
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1294-9361

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p> <italic>Aim</italic>. This case report provides insight into the function of the anterior prefrontal cortex (aPFC), specifically Brodmann Area 10 (BA10), and its interconnectivity. <italic>Method</italic>. We present a 10‐year‐old patient with lesional epilepsy and ictal onset, localised to BA10 in the aPFC. <italic>Results</italic>. Thirty‐four seizures were recorded. All seizures involved a demonstration of elation with laughter that was associated with a variety of different patterns of complex motor behaviour that included performing specific celebratory movements and acting out a Michael Jackson dance move. Electrographically, the seizures were all stereotyped and arose from the right frontal region, followed by a distinct left temporal ictal rhythm that corresponded with the onset of the behaviours. The lesion in the right aPFC was identified as a mixed lesion with both dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumour cells and type II cortical dysplasia. <italic>Conclusion</italic>. The electrographic analysis and unique seizure semiology suggest a connection between the aPFC and the contralateral temporal lobe. This neural pathway appears to be involved in the activation of previously formed procedural memories, creating an intensely positive emotional experience.</p> </abstract>