Lesional cerebellar epilepsy: a review of the evidence

J Neurol. 2017 Jan;264(1):1-10. doi: 10.1007/s00415-016-8161-9. Epub 2016 Jun 3.

Abstract

Classical teaching in epileptology localizes the origins of focal seizures solely in the cerebral cortex, with only inhibitory effects attributed to subcortical structures. However, electrophysiological and neuroimaging studies over the last decades now provide evidence for an initiation of epileptic seizures within subcortical structures. Intrinsic epileptogenicity of hypothalamic hamartoma has already been established in recognition of subcortical epilepsy, whereas a seizure-generating impact of dysplastic cerebellar lesions remains to be clarified. Herein, we examine the supportive evidence and clinical presentation of cerebellar seizures and review therapy options.

Keywords: Cerebellum; Epilepsy; Hamartoma; Seizures; Surgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cerebellar Diseases / diagnosis
  • Cerebellar Diseases / pathology*
  • Cerebellar Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Cerebellar Diseases / therapy
  • Cerebellum / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebellum / pathology*
  • Cerebellum / physiopathology*
  • Epilepsies, Partial / diagnosis
  • Epilepsies, Partial / pathology*
  • Epilepsies, Partial / physiopathology*
  • Epilepsies, Partial / therapy
  • Humans