This 6th edition reviews some of the most noteworthy developments in the field, particularly in epileptic syndromes, but also focuses on the genetic aspects of the syndromes and their development. Progress brought about by advances in neuroimaging is also discussed in addition to specific etiologies such as parasitic diseases and immune and autoimmune diseases.The different backgrounds of the contributors - coordinators and authors - ensure that the book's longstanding reputation f...

Most patients diagnosed with reflex epilepsies experience seizures induced by light stimuli or by sudden unexpected noises. In some patients, however, seizures may also be triggered by more complex precipitants such as reading, emotion, or certain movements or activities. The neurophysiological bases and clinical manifestations associated with these conditions are variable and must be distinguished from those related to other commonly observed seizure precipitating factors such as sleep de...

Clinical case studies have long been recognized as a useful adjunct to problem-based learning and continuing professional development. They emphasize the need for clinical reasoning, integrative thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork and self-directed learning - all desirable generic skills for health care professionals. Epilepsy is amongst the most frequently encountered of neurological disorders. There are important emerging clinical management issues (e.g., first seizure, th...

Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological condition, affecting children and adults, and can occur in a variety of medical settings. It has many causes and many forms, and a variable prognosis. Mortality and morbidity are high, social and legal consequences can stretch well beyond the purely medical, and its management is often poor. Part of the Oxford Textbooks in Clinical Neurology (OTCN) series, this volume covers the scientific basis, clinical diagnosis, and treatment of epilepsy...

The identification of the cause of an epileptic seizure is a key element in the clinical management of all patients. In recent decades, advances in theory, neuroimaging, molecular genetics and molecular chemistry have revolutionized our ability to investigate and identify the underlying cause. The definitive and unrivalled textbook on the causes of epilepsy, this second edition is extensively revised and expanded. It provides concise descriptions of all the major genetic and acquired condi...

Causation is an aspect of epilepsy neglected in the scientific literature and in the conceptualization of epilepsy at a clinical and experimental level. It was to remedy this deficiency that this book was conceived. The book opens with a draft etiological classification that goes some way to filling the nosological void. The book is divided into four etiological categories: idiopathic, symptomatic, cryptogenic, and provoked epilepsies. Each chapter considers topics in a consistent fashion,...