Epilepsy as a disease affecting neural networks: a neurophysiological perspective.

Abstract

The brain is a series of networks of functionally and anatomically connected, bilaterally represented structures; in epilepsy, activity of any part of the brain affects activity in the other parts. This is relevant for understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and prognosis of the disease. In this study, we present a state-of-the-art review of the neurophysiological view of epilepsy as a disease affecting neural networks. We describe the basic and advanced principles of epilepsy as a disease affecting neural networks, based on the use of different clinical and mathematical techniques from a neurophysiological perspective, and signal the limitations of these findings in the clinical context. Epilepsy is a disease affecting complex neural networks. Understanding these will enable better management and prognostic confidence.