Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases in the world, and is characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures (fits) that can occur at all ages. The causes of epilepsy are multiple, ranging from perinatal problems, traumatic brain insults, metabolic abnormalities, to infections of the central nervous system; sometimes, the causes are not known. Consensual international norms have been established for the proper diagnosis and management of epilepsy, including specificities for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Specific emphasis must be laid on low and middle income countries, where about 80% of all persons with epilepsy reside. In such resource-limited settings, epilepsy patients are often confronted with sub-optimal care, reduced access to treatment, and frequent epilepsy complications. Early epilepsy diagnosis and proper anti-epileptic treatment usually result in satisfactory seizure control, and enable persons with epilepsy to lead a normal life. Besides the usual medications, psychosocial support and stigma reducing interventions are crucial to improve the quality of life of affected persons and their families.
Highlights
Epilepsy is a chronic disease of the brain estimated to affect 50 million people worldwide according to World Health Organization (WHO) [1]
These are more expensive and less available in low and middle income countries (LMICs) compared to the routine first-line anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), they are superior in achieving seizure control with relatively less side effects and fewer drug interactions
In addition to seizures and related complications experienced by all persons with epilepsy (PWE), women with epilepsy (WWE) require a more comprehensive management strategy that takes into account reproductive health needs [39]
Summary
Epilepsy is a chronic disease of the brain estimated to affect 50 million people worldwide according to World Health Organization (WHO) [1]. It is characterized by repetitive, unprovoked epileptic seizures which vary widely in their clinical presentations. A meticulous patient history complemented by sound clinical/paraclinical investigations often unveil the underlying cause of epilepsy, the exact etiology remains unknown in about half of cases [2]. Proper diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy are paramount to achieve seizure control and ensure an optimal quality of life for affected individuals
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