epilepsj

Epilepsj is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The term epilepsy is used in most languages; epilepsj may appear as an alternate spelling or transliteration in some contexts.

Most people with epilepsy have unpredictable seizures. Seizure types are broadly categorized as focal onset (originating in a specific brain area) and generalized onset (involving networks from the outset). Focal seizures may be aware or impaired awareness; generalized seizures include tonic-clonic, absence, and myoclonic types.

Causes include genetic influences, structural brain abnormalities from birth or injury, metabolic disorders, inflammatory or autoimmune processes, and infections. In many cases the cause remains unknown (idiopathic). Risk factors include family history, previous head trauma, stroke, brain tumors, and developmental disorders.

Diagnosis relies on clinical history and seizure observation, supplemented by electroencephalography (EEG) to detect abnormal brain activity, and neuroimaging (MRI) to identify structural causes. Blood tests may help rule out metabolic problems; video EEG monitoring may be used in unclear cases.

Treatment aims to control seizures and minimize side effects. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are first-line therapy; about two-thirds of people become seizure-free with one medication or combinations. For drug-resistant focal epilepsy, options include epilepsy surgery, which may remove or disconnect the seizure focus; responsive neurostimulation; vagus nerve stimulation; and dietary approaches such as the ketogenic diet, often used in children.

Prognosis varies. Some achieve long-term seizure freedom, others have ongoing seizures despite treatment. People with epilepsy may face driving restrictions and require safety planning to reduce injuries. A rare but serious complication is sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP).

Epilepsj has a long history in medicine, with modern understanding shaped by EEG discovery in the 1920s and subsequent imaging advances.