If the abnormal brain wave activity is persistent and results from ongoing seizures, then a diagnosis of myoclonic epilepsy may be considered.
[1] Familial adult myoclonus Epilepsy (FAME) This is a condition characterized by the repetition of non-coding sequences and has been identified using various abbreviations.
Currently, it is understood that the genetic mechanism behind FAME involves the elongation of similar non-coding sequences, specifically pentanucleotide repeats, namely TTTCA and TTTTA, within different genes.
Spike activity produced from the brain is usually correlated with brief jerks seen on EMG or excessive muscle artifact.
[7] Features of MERRF, along with myoclonus epilepsy seizures, include ataxia, peripheral neuropathy, and dementia.
[9] It is associated with possible loss of consciousness, rigidity, ataxia, dysarthria, declination of mental functioning, and involuntary shaking.
[11] Reticular reflex myoclonus is a generalized form of epilepsy originating from the brain stem.
Early on, patients without significant myoclonus or seizures might be misdiagnosed and receive incorrect treatment.