Seizures and Epilepsy in the Elderly

Epileptic seizures in the elderly population occur more frequently that previously thought. Recent epidemiologic data indicate that the incidence of seizures rises sharply after middle age. Seizures occur because of previous stroke or head trauma inaddition to a variety of systemic derangements, drugs, drug withdrawal, or acute intracranial disease. The aging process creates particular problems in diagnosis, specific therapy, and long-term management. Prompt diagnosis and therapy are essential.This bookemphasizes the physiologic and pathologic changes associated with aging that have an impact on diagnosis and treatment. It will include epidemiology, clinical diagnosis, imaging and electrophysiologic studies, age-related physiologic changes,pharmacokinetics, drug interactions, current and new antiepileptic drugs, and management.