DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Epilepsy
Chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures due to excessive neuronal activity in brain. Affects 50 million people worldwide. Many types: focal, generalized, unknown onset. Often begins in childhood or after age 65.
50.0M
111
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1EEG (electroencephalogram)
- 2Video-EEG monitoring
- 3Brain MRI
- 4PET scan
- 5SPECT
- 6Neuropsychological testing
- 7Genetic testing
- 8Lumbar puncture (rule out infection)
Prognosis
60-70% achieve seizure freedom with ASM. 30-40% drug-resistant epilepsy. Surgery: 50-80% seizure-free in selected patients. Increased mortality (SUDEP: sudden unexpected death in epilepsy). Normal lifespan in most with controlled seizures.
Prevention
- No primary prevention for genetic epilepsy
- Head injury prevention
- Perinatal care optimization
- Prompt treatment of CNS infections
- Avoiding seizure triggers (sleep deprivation, alcohol, flashing lights)
- Medication adherence
Research Status
Newer ASMs (ASM=anti-seizure medications) with better side effect profiles (lacosamide, perampanel, brivaracetam). Epilepsy surgery curative in selected patients. Responsive neurostimulation (RNS). Deep brain stimulation. Ketogenic diet (especially children). Gene therapy for genetic epilepsies. Cannabis-derived medications (Epidiolex for Dravet, Lennox-Gastaut).
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.