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By LEENA KAMAT, MD

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in which brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations, and sometimes loss of awareness. Anyone can develop epilepsy and it affects both males and females of all races, ethnic backgrounds and ages.

Seizure symptoms can vary widely and can include: temporary confusion, a staring spell, uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs, loss of consciousness or awareness, or psychic symptoms such as fear, anxiety or déjà vu. At least two unprovoked seizures are generally required for a diagnosis of epilepsy.

Seizures are classified as either focal or generalized based on how the abnormal brain activity begins. Focal seizures are when seizures appear to result from abnormal activity in one area of the brain and fall into two categories: focal seizures without loss of consciousness and focal seizures with impaired awareness. Generalized seizures appear to involve all areas of the brain and six types exist: absence seizures, tonic seizures, atonic seizures, clonic seizures, myoclonic seizures, and tonic-clonic seizures.

Treatment with medications or sometimes surgery can control seizures for many people with epilepsy. Other therapies include vagus nerve stimulation, ketogenic diet, and deep brain stimulation.

Tests to diagnose epilepsy and determine the cause of seizures include: a neurological exam, blood tests, electroencephalogram (EEG) and radiological imaging. Imaging includes CT, MRI, and PET. CT and MRI scans are cross-sectional imaging of the brain that can reveal abnormalities that might be causing seizures, such as tumors, bleeding and cysts. PET scans use a small amount of low-dose radioactive material that's injected into a vein to help visualize active areas of the brain and detect abnormalities.

The radiologists from Radiology Specialists of Florida at Florida Hospital are very well trained and experienced. We have radiologists specifically trained in neuroradiology and can interpret x-rays, MRI, and CT scans of the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves. They also perform angiographic studies of the brain and spine and interpret the findings. We keep up to date on the latest technology and information so that we can offer patients the best care.

The Florida Hospital Care Network delivers seamlessly connected healthcare services for all ages. Quality Imaging and Diagnostic starts today.

Leena Kamat, MD, is a board-certified diagnostic radiologist, sub-specialized in breast imaging for Radiology Specialists of Florida at Florida Hospital. She earned her medical degree at the University of Florida, College of Medicine and following graduation completed her residency at the University of South Florida and a fellowship in breast imaging at the Moffitt Cancer Center. In her spare time, Dr. Kamat enjoys spending time with her family and friends, travel, fitness, and cooking.

For more information visit www.Somedaystartstoday.com