Rasmussen’s Encephalitis and Focal Cortical Dysplasia

This chapter describes a case of pharmacoresistant, progressive, multifocal epilepsy caused by Rasmussen’s encephalitis and focal cortical dysplasia. Initial intractable seizures emanated from the left occipital lobe, prompting occipital lobectomy. Due to the progressive nature of the underlying pathology, the patient remained resistant to surgical intervention and necessitated neuromodulation therapy. This case illustrates the current data regarding deep brain stimulation targeting the anterior thalamic nucleus and the utilized stimulation parameters. We present an in-depth analysis of Rasmussen’s encephalitis, including its clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, and surgical interventions. In addition, our case demonstrates the importance of visual task functional mapping and formal visual field analysis in the surgical decision-making process for patients with occipital lobe epilepsy. We conclude by the surgical techniques in occipital lobe epilepsy and outcome predictors.