Chaos theory and epilepsy

Abstract

Recently, interest has turned to the mathematical concept of chaos as an explanation for a variety of complex processes in nature. Chaotic systems, among other characteristics, can produce what appears to be random output. Another property of chaotic systems is that they may exhibit abrupt intermittent transitions between highly ordered and disordered states. Because of this property, it is hypothesized that epilepsy may be an example of chaos. In this review, some of the basic concepts of nonlinear dynamics and chaos are illustrated. Mathematical techniques developed to study the properties of nonlinear dynamical systems are outlined. Finally, the results of applying these techniques to the study of human epilepsy are discussed. The application of these powerful and novel mathematical techniques to analysis of the electroencephalogram has provided new insights into the epileptogenic process and may have considerable utility in the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy.