ABSTRACT

Abdominal epilepsy is a recurrent and rare condition characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and neurological findings such as lethargy and convulsion. Although usually seen in childhood, it can also be seen in adults. After ruling out more common causes of abdominal pain, it is diagnosed with electroencephalography (EEG). The improvement of symptoms with antiepileptics is important in diagnosis. A 17-year-old woman was admitted to the emergency department with sudden loss of consciousness. On admission, general condition of the patient was moderate. The patient had confusion, and her other vital signs were as follows: Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) at 11 (E: 2M: 5V: 4); arterial blood pressure, 100/60 mmHg; heart rate, 100 beats/min; respiration rate, 20 breaths/min and temperature, 37.2°C. Other physical examination findings were normal. First serum glucose level was 85 mg/dL. Serum amylase, lipase and other laboratory test results were within normal limits. After two hours of monitoring, her consciousness was completely opened. For differential diagnosis of abdominal pain, control results were normal. There was not any abnormal findings in computed tomography (CT) scans of brain. In EEG recordings, moderately active epileptiform abnormalities were detected. Levetirasetam medication was initiated. There were no problems observed during the one-year treatment period. Abdominal epilepsy is a rare condition that should be considered in patients presented with abdominal pain and confusion. After the initial tests performed for differential diagnosis of abdominal pain, patients should be evaluated with EEG.

Keywords: Abdominal epilepsy, abdominal pain, confusion