Table 1

Classification of seizure type

SEIZURECHARACTERISTICSTYPES
Partial or focal seizuresSimple: without loss of consciousness or Complex: with loss of consciousnessMotor
Sensory
Autonomic
Affective
Generalized (with loss of consciousness)Primary or secondary (following partial seizure)
With or without aura		Nonconvulsive:

  • Absence or petit mal


Convulsive:

  • Grand mal or tonic-clonic

  • Clonic (upper limb, neck, and face contractions)

  • Myoclonic (limbs)

  • Tonic (generalized rigidity and falls)

  • Atonic (sudden loss of muscle tone)

  • Data from Caraceni et al.5