Which term best describes an uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain?

• A. Dystonia
• B. Tremor
• C. Seizure
• D. Spasm

Answer: (C)

A seizure is an abnormal, excessive, synchronized electrical discharge in brain neurons that transiently disrupts consciousness, sensation, or movement. This electrical disturbance is what defines a seizure event, and it can be focal or generalized, convulsive or non-convulsive. The other terms describe motor phenomena not defined by brain-wide electrical discharges: dystonia involves sustained, involuntary muscle contractions; tremor is a rhythmic oscillation of movement; and spasm is a sudden, involuntary muscle contraction. When seizures occur repeatedly, the condition is called epilepsy.