Case ReportEpileptic Angina

PurposeTo investigate the probable ictal origin of unexplained episodic chest pain and if possible to lateralize and localize the epileptic focus.MethodsA 14 year old boy presented with episodic short lasting localized chest pain. His cardiac and other systemic work-up were normal. MRI brain did not reveal any structural pathology. Video telemetry was done for characterization of the paroxysms.ResultsInterictal record showed left fronto-central epileptiform discharges. A left hemispheric, predominantly centroparietal ictal rhythm was identified. The possible localizations of this unusual semiology are somatosensory areas I and II, supplementary sensorimotor area, posterior insula and cingulate cortex. Patient responded remarkably to antiseizure drugs.ConclusionPain is a rare manifestation of epilepsy observed in less than 1% of patients. When present, it is usually accompanied by other focal features. This rare occurrence of epileptic seizures masquerading as angina is a novel observation.