A Study of Aetiology of First Episode of Seizures in Adults

Abstract

BACKGROUND Epilepsy is probably as old as man himself. Jackson (1931) described epilepsy "as a sudden excessive rapid discharge of grey matter of some part of the brain". Seizures are common disorders, the average incidence rate in most studies is 20-70/1,00,000 per year (range 11 "134/1,00 000 per year). Incidence varies considerably with age, rates are greatest in early childhood, reach a nadir in early adult life, and rise again in elderly person. The aims and objective of the study are: 1) To investigate for the aetiology of First episode of seizures in adults. 2) To study the clinical course of admitted cases with First time seizures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Inclusion Criteria-Patients in the medical wards with history and clinical features suggestive of seizures for the first time are included in the study. A provisional diagnosis made on clinical grounds and substantiated by carrying out appropriate Biochemical, Pathological, and Radiological investigation. A detailed analysis for aetiology and the clinical presentation will be studied. Exclusion Criteria-Patients with past history of seizures, head injury on anti-epileptic drug treatment were excluded. RESULTS This study included 45 patients examined and treated in the Dept. of Medicine. Their ages ranged from 15 to 75 years. The 45 patients studied were divided into 6 age groups. CONCLUSION This study included 45 patients (more than 15 years of age) presenting with seizures. Patients with past history of seizures, head injury on anti-epileptic drug treatment were excluded. There were 33 males 12 females and ages ranged from 15 to 75 years. Detailed history was obtained and physical examination was done in each patient.