Historical perspectives and definitions of the postictal state

Epilepsy Behav. 2010 Oct;19(2):96-9. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2010.06.037. Epub 2010 Aug 11.

Abstract

The postictal state and its features were recognized by physicians from Babylonian times through to the advent of modern neurology in the late 19th century. Among varied descriptions and definitions lies one of the best known and still used eponyms in medicine, Todd's paralysis. Despite a relative lack of biological insight, many key observations were made in an era mostly devoid of treatments for epilepsy.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aphasia / etiology
  • Aphasia / history
  • Cognition
  • History, 19th Century
  • Humans
  • Seizures / complications
  • Seizures / history*