Epilepsy and Seizures

Abstract

Epilepsy represents an important area of clinical neuropsychological practice and research. Historically, clinical neuropsychology studies primarily involved patients with seizures that were not adequately controlled by anti-epileptic drugs, termed medically refractory or intractable epilepsy. However, the role of the neuropsychological evaluation and the clinical neuropsychologist has expanded well beyond a narrow focus on patients with medically intractable epilepsy. This chapter will provide an overview of the application of neuropsychology, psychology, and quality of life to patients with epilepsy, including a special section for the clinical neuropsychologist in the surgery team (see section "Neuropsychological (Cognitive and Behavioral) Comorbidity in Epilepsy"). Section "Neuropsychological Assessment Guide" provides an overview of assessment practices. The clinical care of epilepsy has reflected an area of medicine having a strong multidisciplinary model, particularly with respect to neuropsychology. This chapter is meant as a targeted review of the neuropsychological aspects of epilepsy and its treatment. However, we will also endeavor to provide a review of the diagnosis of epilepsy, seizure classification, seizure semiology, and the prevalence and incidence of seizures and epilepsy. Because neuropsychologists are integral members of epilepsy centers, it is important for the neuropsychologist to be aware of factors affecting the treatment and variables affecting surgical outcome, both in terms of neuropsychological outcome and of seizure freedom. We then summarize the treatment of seizures and components of a pre-surgical evaluation for medication refractory (intractable) epilepsy. Finally, we summarize decades of research attempting to delineate risk factors for post-surgical neuropsychological impairment following neurological surgery for the treatment of medically refractory epilepsy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: chapter)