Todd's paralysis

Last reviewed 01/2018

Todd's paralysis is a post-ictal - post-seizure - focal neurologic deficit which following a series of seizures, is characterised by persistent weakness - for several hours or longer - at the affected site. It may occur in association with hemiplegia in which seizures often accompany the outset. It is often confused with a cerebrovascular event.

Pathologically, the clinical features may represent neuronal exhaustion after the period of increased activity.

The paralysis resolves spontaneously, usually within minutes or hours, rarely, within days.