30 Questions
What is the primary characteristic of most forms of epilepsy?
Violent involuntary muscle contractions
What is the primary objective of anticonvulsant therapy?
To suppress seizures while causing minimal impairment of CNS function
What is the role of anticonvulsants in epilepsy?
They control epilepsy but do not cure it
What is the importance of planning appointments for epileptic patients?
To plan for times when they have high blood concentrations of anticonvulsant medication
What is the focus of hypotheses proposed to explain why seizures occur?
Defects in ionic conductance of the neuronal membrane
What is the potential role of anticonvulsants in addition to controlling seizures?
They have a neuroprotective role
What is the primary concern when treating seizures in a dental clinic?
The prompt treatment of the seizure
Which medication can be administered through multiple routes, including intravenously, intramuscularly, intranasally, or intrabuccally?
Midazolam
What is a common side effect of phenytoin specific to dentistry?
Gingival overgrowth
Where does phenytoin-induced overgrowth most commonly occur?
Anterior mandibular region
How can the rate of development of gingival overgrowth be diminished?
By proper oral hygiene
What is an alternative to IV administration of anticonvulsant medication in a dental office?
Rectal gel administration
What should the dentist do if a patient reports an aura before a seizure?
Remove all instruments from the patient's mouth and prepare for a seizure
What is the typical duration of a seizure in a dental patient?
2 to 5 minutes
What should the dentist do if a patient has an obstructed airway after a seizure?
Position the head, neck, and jaw to ensure a clear airway
Why is it important to ask the patient about triggering stimuli before treatment?
To avoid triggering a seizure during treatment
What is a characteristic of seizures induced by local anesthetic overdoses?
They are typically longer and may require anticonvulsant treatment
What should the dentist avoid doing during a tonic-clonic seizure?
Trying to open the patient's mouth
What is the mechanism of action of Phenytoin?
It blocks Na+ channels
What is the therapeutic use of Fosphenytoin?
IM and IV use for status epilepticus
What is a common adverse reaction of Phenytoin?
Gum hyperplasia
What is the therapeutic use of Carbamazepine in dentistry?
Topical application for trigeminal neuralgia
What is an interaction of Phenytoin with other drugs?
It increases the metabolism of oral anticoagulants
What is a complication of Phenytoin-induced oral complications?
Megaloblastic anemia
What is the mechanism of action of ethosuximide?
It blocks Ca++ channels (T-type)
What is a therapeutic use of valproic acid in medicine and dentistry?
All of the above
What is a gastrointestinal side effect of valproic acid?
Anorexia
What is a central nervous system side effect of valproic acid?
Sedation
What is a mechanism of action of valproic acid?
All of the above
What is a potential interaction of valproic acid with another drug?
It inhibits the metabolism of ethosuximide
This quiz covers the basics of epilepsy, a group of disorders characterized by abnormal nervous tissue discharge, leading to seizures and convulsions. Learn about the pathophysiological characteristics and hypotheses behind epilepsy. Test your knowledge of anti-epileptics and their role in treating this condition.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
