Diagnostic methods are then considered, including the importance of an accurate historical description of an event suspected to be a seizure and the appropriate use of ancillary/confirmative tests, such as electroencephalogram (EEG), neuroimaging, and genetic studies. We first define seizures and epilepsy and summarize their classification, pathophysiology, and genetics. Further information about differential diagnosis, drug doses, and clinical management are available from numerous resources ( Engel and Pedley 2008 Duchowny et al.
We focus on broad concepts, rather than clinical details, and raise questions related to mechanisms, epileptogenesis, and therapeutic approaches that might generate interest among basic researchers.
This article provides an overview of seizures and epilepsy for neuroscientists.
