epilepsy, partial

epilepsy, partial Epilepsy characterized by seizures that affects only one part of the brain. Symptoms depend on which part of the brain is affected. One part of the body, or multiple parts on one side of the body, may start to twitch uncontrollably. Partial seizures may involve head turning, eye movements, lip smacking, mouth movements, drooling, rhythmic muscle contractions in a part of the body, apparently purposeful movements, abnormal numbness, tingling, and a crawling sensation over the skin. Partial seizures can also include sensory disturbances, such as smelling or hearing things that are not there, or having a sudden flood of emotions. Although the patient may feel confused, consciousness is not lost. Also known as focal seizures and local seizures. See also seizure; seizure disorder; seizure, partial.