Abstract

LAZARO PERLADO, Fernando; MARIN DIAZ-GUARDAMINO, Elena  and  CONDE RIVAS, Manuel. Clinical Neuropsychiatry of epilepsy: transient epileptic amnesia. A case report. Rev. Asoc. Esp. Neuropsiq. [online]. 2014, vol.34, n.123, pp.539-558. ISSN 2340-2733.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S0211-57352014000300007.

Introduction: Memory problems are not uncommon in epileptic patients. A number of these patients show recurrent amnestic episodes and autobiographical memory problems. This clinical entity has been described as "transient epileptic amnesia". We review the literature on this disorder describing in detail its clinical characteristics. Case report: We present the case of a 58 year old male, with a previous diagnosis of epilepsy and an affective disorder, who presents with witnessed recurrent episodes of transient amnesia without any other cognitive problems. During the attacks he showed oro-alimentary automatisms, brief episodes of stupor however maintaining consciousness and an adequate behaviour. Conclusions: Transient epileptic amnesia is a clearly defined subtype of temporal lobe epilepsy however underdiagnosed. In those patients whose only complaint is memory problems, especially if they present with brief recurrent episodes of amnesia, and in those who present with long-term memory problems, transient epileptic amnesia should be seriously considered as a diagnostic option. It responds very well to treatment with anti-epileptic drugs.

Keywords : Amnesia; Epilepsia; Transient epileptic amanesia; Epileptic amnesia.

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