Epileptic disorders

In this second edition, the first new part discusses the clinical approach to the diagnosis of the patient presenting with a probable epileptic seizure and the use of the EEG to support and refine (or refute) the initial hypothesis. It also explores the when and how to use the EEG (and avoid its overuse), once differential diagnosis includes the commonest imitators of epilepsy. Finally, it describes the EEG paroxysms of uncertain clinical significance to avoid over-interpretation when they appear to be the main (or the sole) EEG abnormality and the clinical picture offers little clarity.The revised second part was published on its own in 2018 and includes the epilepsy syndromes that are recognised by the ILAE from the neonatal period to adulthood. Because it covers the indications and the optimal use of the EEG from the initial diagnostic level of does my patient have epilepsy and, if yes, what is its type? to the highest diagnostic refinement , this book can be a useful educational and clinical tool, full of practical information, tips and clues to improve the reader's recording techniques and strategies.From paediatric and adult epileptologists, EEG technologists, neurology and clinical neurophysiology residents to physicians and nurses, a wide range of professionals can use it as a reference guide on a daily basis.

There has been growing interest in the use of cannabis-based products for the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including epilepsy.A number of studies were published during the last 5 years demonstrating efficacy of purified CBD for the control of a large spectrum of seizure-types, particularly those observed in severe childhood epilepsies, such as Lennox- Gastaut and Dravet syndromes.This book, co-authored by leaders in the field of epileptology, critically reviews recent data from clinical trials. Authors discuss issues related to pharmacology, drug interactions, efficacy, potential adverse events and long-term effects on development and behaviour. Child and adult neurologists and all clinicians contributing to epilepsy care will find useful information on the best practices, when using purified CBD for the treatment ofdrug-resistant epilepsies.

Encephalopathy with Electrical Status Epilepticus during Sleep (ESES) was described almost 50 years ago; however its clinical spectrum and its boundaries, the diagnostic criteria, the pathophysiology and the therapeutic management are still debated. In the last years, clinical data, neurophysiological and imaging investigations, as well as genetic studies have renewed the interest on ESES. In addition, experimental findings from sleep research have opened fascinating perspectives on some possible pathophysiological mechanisms involved in this condition. These issues are presented and discussed in this book by clinicians, neurophysiologists, sleep physiologists and geneticists. They all have been working on ESES with the aim to provide an updated overview of this special syndrome in the light of recent research.