[International classification of epileptic seizures, epilepsies, and epileptic syndromes]

Abstract

Epilepsy is one of the common diseases in neurology. Its correct diagnosis and classification are important for choosing the most appropriate treatment. Currently, Classification of Epileptic Seizures in 1981 and Classification of Epilepsies and Epileptic Syndromes in 1989, both were proposed by International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), are available. As for Classification of Epilepsies and Epileptic Syndromes, two divisions continue to be widely used to shape the major classes: The first separates epilepsies with generalized seizures (generalized epilepsy) from epilepsies with partial or focal seizures (localization-related, partial or focal epilepsies). The other separates epilepsies of known etiology (symptomatic or secondary epilepsies) from those that are idiopathic (primary) and those that are cryptogenic. In 2001, ILAE Task Force proposed a new classification. However, its daily use has yet been limited. Simple and useful classification will lead to better understanding and more appropriate management of epilepsy.