Epileptic seizures are transient episodes of signs or symptoms caused by abnormal, excessive, or synchronous electrical activity in the brain's neurons. They range from brief lapses of awareness to convulsions with loss of consciousness, and their manifestations depend on which brain regions are involved. Seizures a…
Epileptic seizures are transient episodes of signs or symptoms caused by abnormal, excessive, or synchronous electrical activity in the brain's neurons. They range from brief lapses of awareness to convulsions with loss of consciousness, and their manifestations depend on which brain regions are involved. Seizures are broadly classified as focal, arising in one region and sometimes spreading, or generalised, engaging both hemispheres from onset; epilepsy is the underlying tendency to recurrent unprovoked seizures. Causes are diverse and include genetic predisposition, structural brain lesions, head injury, infection, metabolic disturbance, and vascular conditions, while some seizure-like events are non-epileptic in origin, underscoring the importance of accurate differential diagnosis. Investigation typically combines clinical history, electroencephalography to capture abnormal discharges, and neuroimaging to identify structural causes, with genetic studies relevant in selected cases. Management centres on antiseizure medication, but drug-resistant epilepsy may require additional approaches, including evaluation for surgery or neuromodulation such as deep brain stimulation, where research continues into optimal targets. Associated syndromes and conditions that can produce or mimic seizures, including encephalopathies and encephalitis, further shape clinical assessment. Understanding the mechanisms, classification, and triggers of epileptic seizures guides diagnosis, treatment selection, and efforts to improve seizure control and quality of life.
9 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.
The 9 articles above have been cited 26 times in the scholarly literature. Citation data via OpenAlex and Crossref, updated Jun 2026.
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