Case reports of seizures related to the menstrual cycle

Abstract

Catamenial epilepsy, a gender-specific disorder is characterized by the occurrence or exacerbation of epileptic seizures, due to cyclic hormonal changes, related with the phases of the menstrual cycle. The “pure” form consisting of seizures occurring only during a particular phase of the menstrual cycle is a rare condition. In this regard, two case reports of patients with 'pure' catamenial seizures have been described. Both focal and generalized epilepsy can be affected by cyclical monthly changes. In the pathogenesis of the condition, a major role is given to the cyclical changes of the ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone, as their metabolism also plays a significant role in the treatment of these patients, with treatment strategies still remaining a challenge.