Epilepsy that causes generalized seizures


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Epilepsy that causes generalized seizures


Epilepsy that causes generalized seizures is more common in children than in adults. Unlike partial seizures, which begin in a specific, often damaged area in the brain, generalized seizures cannot be traced to a specific location or focus. The abnormal electrical activity that causes seizures begins over the entire surface of the brain, and seizures tend to affect the entire body.

Epilepsy that causes generalized seizures may have no known cause (idiopathic), or it may result from another condition (symptomatic). Drug therapy is the usual treatment approach, although surgery may be helpful in some cases.

Credits


Author Monica Rhodes
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Theresa O'Young, PharmD - Clinical Pharmacist
Specialist Medical Reviewer Steven C. Schachter, MD - Neurology
Last Updated October 29, 2007

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Last updated: October 29, 2007
Author: Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Steven C. Schachter, MD - Neurology
Editors: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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