A breakthrough seizure is a seizure which occurs in a person who has a
reasonable level of control, and for one of several reasons, suddenly
has an unexpected seizure. So if a person is still having regular
seizures (even if less in frequency and intensity then before on meds)
then they are not breakthroughs. In this case this person has simply
not reached a complete level of control, but rather has achieved a
better then pre-med level of seizure activity.
Using myself as an example. Prior to being on any meds I was having
10-12 complex partials daily. When on meds this was reduced to 3-6 per
day-these would not be breakthroughs since I had never gained any level
of control at this point. Now, once I had my Right Temporal Lobectomy
in March 2008, I finally reached a level of control where I went as many
as 7 1/2 months seizure free. Now the seizures I had in May 2009 I
would call breakthrough seizures-since prior to that I had gained a
significant level of control. I would call any seizures I would have
from this point on breakthroughs.
Though I hope to remain seizure free for a lifetime--I do not expect
that to be so since I have had 7 since my surgery. I do however
consider myself a success story!!
Hope that helps.
Kelly P
CBI wrote:
> I'm confused. I thought a breakthrough seizure was when someone is on medication and they have a seizure but because of the medication it prevents a full seizure from occurring and instead only a smaller seizure occurs. Its an indication the medication being take is working by preventing a full seizure. In my case, they last a few seconds and I stay conscious. I have one about once a month and they may come in clusters. How are others defining breakthrough seizures? What's the difference between a breakthrough seizure and other regular seizure? I realize it may not be a black and white difference but what have others learned from their respective doctors may help explain this. Thanks Take care.
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