[PERSPECTIVES] Epilepsy: A Spectrum Disorder

Epilepsy, a disorder of unprovoked seizures is a multifaceted disease affecting individuals of all ages with a particular predilection for the very young and old. In addition to seizures, many patients often report cognitive and psychiatric problems associated with both the seizures themselves and its therapy. Epilepsy has numerous etiologies both idiopathic and acquired with a wide range of therapeutic responses. Despite numerous treatments available to control repetitive seizures including medications, diets, immunotherapy, surgery, and neuromodulatory devices, a large percentage of patients continue to suffer the consequences of uncontrolled seizures, which include psychosocial stigma and death.

Source: Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine - September 1, 2015 Category: Research Authors: Sirven, J. I. Tags: Epilepsy: The Biology of a Spectrum Disorder PERSPECTIVES Source Type: research