JME epilepsy, Light-sensitive epilepsy, Light-flash-sensitive epilepsy
In juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, myoclonus (muscle jerks) often occur in the arms or shoulders in the morning. Tonic-clonic seizures and absences can also occur. Seizures are most common between the ages of 10 and 20. Sometimes, myoclonus is only experienced as an electrical shock or is observed only by others. Many young people with JME are sensitive to light flashes, meaning they can experience seizures triggered by flashes of light.
On the EEG, so-called polyspike waves are typically seen, which are characteristic of JME. The seizures are generally well-treated with medication. Medication is typically continued into adulthood and is only tapered off after the age of 20.
For more information, visit www.epilepsievereniging.nl, www.epilepsie.nl, and www.kinderneurologie.eu.