Epilepsy, Tonic-Clonic

**Definition:** A generalized seizure disorder characterized by recurrent major motor seizures. The initial brief tonic phase is marked by trunk flexion followed by diffuse extension of the trunk and extremities. The clonic phase features rhythmic flexor contractions of the trunk and limbs, pupillary dilation, elevations of blood pressure and pulse, urinary incontinence, and tongue biting. This is followed by a profound state of depressed consciousness (post-ictal state) which gradually improves over minutes to hours. The disorder may be cryptogenic, familial, or symptomatic (caused by an identified disease process). (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p329)

**Tree numbers:** - C10.228.140.490.375.290

**Synonyms:** - Convulsions, Grand Mal - Epilepsy, Grand Mal - Epilepsy, Major - Grand Mal Seizure Disorder - Major Motor Seizure Disorder - Seizure Disorder, Grand Mal - Seizure Disorder, Major Motor - Seizure Disorder, Tonic Clonic - Tonic Clonic Convulsions - Tonic-Clonic Convulsion Disorder - Tonic-Clonic Convulsion Syndrome - Tonic-Clonic Seizure Disorder - Tonic-Clonic Seizure Syndrome