Hypothalamic hamartoma presenting with gelastic seizures, generalized convulsions, and ictal psychosis

Neurosciences (Riyadh). 2010 Jan;15(1):43-5.

Abstract

We report a case of hypothalamic hamartoma in an adult female who presented with gelastic seizures, generalized convulsions, and ictal aggressive psychotic behavior. Anticonvulsant treatment was ineffective in controlling the epileptic seizures. Surgical excision after accurate imaging diagnosis 3 decades after the onset of symptoms markedly ameliorated her condition. Delayed and erroneous diagnosis had unnecessarily prolonged the suffering of our patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Epilepsies, Partial / etiology*
  • Epilepsy, Generalized / etiology*
  • Female
  • Hamartoma / complications*
  • Hamartoma / pathology
  • Humans
  • Hypothalamic Diseases / complications*
  • Hypothalamic Diseases / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Psychotic Disorders / etiology*