Seizures (complex partial)

A complex partial seizure is a partial seizure in which consciousness is impaired.

There is often a period of confusion, aimless wandering, fearfulness, incoherent speech or other inappropriate behaviour which can be misconstrued as a psychological disorder. The attack may be heralded by the patient being aware of a curious taste or smell. During the remainder of the attack, lip-smacking and swallowing are not uncommon.

Reference

1. Fisher RS, Cross JH, French JA, et al. Operational classification of seizure types by the International League Against Epilepsy: position paper of the ILAE Commission for Classification and Terminology. Epilepsia. 2017 Apr;58(4):522-30.