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Arch Neurol. 2002;59:732-735.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

EPILEPSY IS a common, frequently misunderstood, treatable condition that causes significant morbidity and mortality if mismanaged. Many new treatment options have been introduced, but there is often controversy about when to use newer antiepileptic drugs, expensive diagnostic procedures, and surgery. Recent epidemiological data, a new proposed classification system for epileptic seizures and epilepsies, new video electroencephalographic (EEG) and diagnostic imaging technologies, and surgical treatment options all should lead to better seizure control with fewer adverse effects and, thus, a better quality of life for persons with epilepsy.

EPILEPSY EPIDEMIOLOGY IN THE UNITED STATES

Begley et al¹ estimate that there are 2.32 million persons with epilepsy in the United States, with 14% younger than 15 years, 24% older than 64 years, and 62% between ages 15 and 64 years. Only 54% of persons with epilepsy have complete seizure control or control after a delay. The incidence of epilepsy is 181 000 new cases each year, affecting all age . . . [Full Text of this Article]

CLASSIFICATION OF SEIZURES AND EPILEPSIES

DIAGNOSTIC MONITORING

MEDICAL TREATMENT

SURGICALLY REMEDIABLE EPILEPSY

CONCLUSIONS

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