Seizure disorders:One of a great many medical conditions that are characterized by episodes of uncontrolled electrical activityinthebrain(seizures). Some seizure disorders are hereditary, but others are caused by birth defects or environmental hazards, such as lead poisoning. Seizure disorders are more likely to develop in patients who have otherneurologicaldisorders,psychiatricconditions, orimmune-system problems. In some cases, uncontrolledseizurescan cause brain damage, lowered intelligence, and permanent mental and physical impairment.Diagnosisis by observation, neurological examination, electroencephalogram (EEG), and in some cases more advanced brain imaging techniques. Treatment is usually bymedication, although in difficult cases a special diet or brainsurgerymay be tried.
See also epilepsy, seizure types and specific seizure disorders:Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Ramsey Huntsyndrome, seizure.
