Seizures and Epilepsy Defined

A seizure is an excessive, hypersynchronous discharge of cortical neurons, measurable on EEG, that may disturb consciousness, sensory-motor systems, and behavior. Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Convulsions are violent involuntary muscle contractions -- but a patient can have seizures without convulsions.

Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder, with a prevalence of about 1% (6.42 per 1000 in the US). Seizure onset is greatest in the first year of life. About 75% of epilepsy is primary (idiopathic) with no identifiable cause; secondary seizures follow tumors, infections, head trauma, metabolic disorders, or alcohol/drug withdrawal.

📖 “Seizure = excessive hypersynchronous cortical discharge (EEG). Epilepsy = chronic recurrent unprovoked seizures. Convulsions = violent muscle contractions (not required). Prevalence ~1%. 75% primary/idiopathic. Prolonged seizures cause ischemia/neuronal destruction.”