Benign Rolandic Epilepsy

Benign Rolandic Epilepsy

Benign rolandic epilepsy is a type of epilepsy that occurs in children. They usually outgrow the disorder during adolescence. The onset of this disorder is usually between the ages of 4 and 13 years.

It is called benign rolandic epilepsy because the seizures begin in the area of the brain called the rolandic area. The rolandic area is the only part of the brain involved in these seizures.

Children with benign rolandic epilepsy are usually otherwise healthy. They will sometimes have difficulty with reading. It affects girls and boys equally.

These seizures begin as twitching at the mouth and then spread throughout the face and body. The seizures usually occur at night, during sleep, or upon waking. The child experiences jerking movements of the arms and legs and loses consciousness during the seizure. The child may become incontinent.

An electroencephalogram (EEG test) is used to diagnose benign rolandic epilepsy. The EEG will show epileptic activity in the rolandic area of the brain.

Benign rolandic epilepsy is generally mild. It often doesn’t require treatment. An anticonvulsant medication, such as Carbamazepine, may be prescribed. Carbamazepine is available in tablet and syrup form. Prognosis is good since benign rolandic epilepsy disappears during puberty.