Photosensitive epilepsy (self-induced)

(First sequence) Imitation of self-induction by repetitive opening and closing of the eyes in front of a bright light source. (Second sequence) Video-EEG demonstrates spontaneous symptoms resembling eyelid myoclonia with absences. These are also reproduced on request at low intermittent photic stimulation flash rates without EEG discharges. There are no abnormalities on eye closure. Photoparoxysmal discharges of polyspikes are induced by higher flash rates, and these are clinically manifested with axial and limb jerks without eyelid myoclonia. (Third sequence) Description of the self-induced process. “I do not do it on purpose, but I do not exactly avoid it... I do not actually deliberately go out to find some bright light but if I find it I am happy... I would like to stop doing it, but it is a funny nice feeling. I cannot say it is nice, it is a relief... In a way, it is a play between me and the sun... It is a mixture of feelings. On the one hand I do not want to do it, but on the other hand it is releasing something... No, it is not sexual… I know it is strange...” (Used with permission from: Panayiotopoulos CP. Reflex seizures and reflex epilepsies. In: Panayiotopoulos CP, editor. The Epilepsies: Seizures, Syndromes and Management. Oxford: Bladon Medical Publishing, 2005:449-96.)