The History of Epilepsy: From Ancient Mystery to Modern Misconception

Abstract

Epilepsy is an ancient disease, which has fascinated and frightened scientists and laymen alike. Before the working knowledge of the central nervous system, seizures were shrouded in mystery. In antiquity, this disease was accredited to gods and demonic possession, causing those with epilepsy to be feared and isolated. Epilepsy patients continued to face discrimination through the mid-20th century. This discrimination ranged from lack of access to health insurance, jobs, and marriage equality to forced sterilizations. Despite the strides that have been made, there are still many misconceptions globally regarding epilepsy. Studies show that patients with epilepsy in communities that understand the pathology and cause of seizures are generally more successful in social and educational environments. While there has been progress, there is more work which needs to be done to educate people across the globe about the pathology of epilepsy.

Keywords: ancient greece; babylonia; epilepsy; historical medicine; seizure; social stigma.

Figure 1. Tablet 26 of a series of 40 which compose the ancient Babylonian diagnostic manual entitled Sakikku which translates to "all diseases".

Sakikku is organized into six chapters and tablet 26 is the first in the chapter about epilepsy. It describes the symptoms of epilepsy and the different types of epileptic presentations [5]. Tablet BM47753. Neo-Babylonian Period. Courtesy of the British Museum, London.

Figure 2. Saint Severin curing a woman of the 'falling sickness demon'.

Meister des Heiligen Severin. Circa 1300. Courtesy of the Museum Horne Foundation, Florence.