Hypothalamic hamartomas causing gelastic epilepsy: two cases and a review of the literature

Seizure. 1998 Apr;7(2):167-71. doi: 10.1016/s1059-1311(98)80075-7.

Abstract

Two cases of hypothalamic hamartomas causing gelastic epilepsy are described. The clinical presentations and the radiological features are presented, and the mechanisms involved in laughing attacks are discussed. The literature is reviewed and it is suggested the complete extirpation of the hamartomas is the treatment of choice in gelastic epilepsy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Epilepsy / diagnosis
  • Epilepsy / etiology*
  • Epilepsy / pathology
  • Female
  • Hamartoma / diagnosis*
  • Hamartoma / pathology
  • Humans
  • Hypothalamic Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Hypothalamic Diseases / pathology
  • Hypothalamus / pathology
  • Laughter / physiology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male