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Keywords

Epilepsy classification
ILAE 2017
seizure types
focal seizures
generalized seizures

How to Cite

CLASSIFICATION OF EPILEPSY: A COMPREHENSIVE NARRATIVE REVIEW. (2026). SYNAPSES: INSIGHTS ACROSS THE DISCIPLINES, 3(4), 358-367. https://www.universalpublishings.com/index.php/siad/article/view/17884

Abstract

Epilepsy represents one of the most prevalent neurological disorders globally, affecting approximately 50 million people worldwide. The classification of epilepsy and seizure types has undergone significant transformation over the past century, evolving from simple descriptive categories to sophisticated, multidimensional frameworks based on neurophysiological mechanisms. This narrative review examines the current International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) 2017 classification system, its historical evolution, and the newly updated 2025 revisions. We explore the three-tiered diagnostic approach encompassing seizure types, epilepsy types, and epilepsy syndromes, while integrating etiological considerations throughout each level. Understanding these classification systems is essential for accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment selection, and prognostic assessment in clinical practice.

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References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Types of Seizures. CDC Epilepsy Program. 2024. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/about/types-of-seizures.html

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Fisher RS, Cross JH, D'Souza C, et al. Instruction manual for the ILAE 2017 operational classification of seizure types. Epilepsia. 2017;58(4):531-542. doi:10.1111/epi.13671

Fisher RS. The New Classification of Seizures by the International League Against Epilepsy 2017. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2017;17(6):48. doi:10.1007/s11910-017-0758-6

CURE Epilepsy. Epilepsy Syndromes. 2026. Available at: https://www.cureepilepsy.org/understanding-epilepsy/diagnosing-epilepsy/syndromes/

International League Against Epilepsy. Updated classification of epileptic seizures (2025). ILAE Guidelines. 2025. Available at: https://www.ilae.org/updated-classification-epileptic-seizures-2025

Epilepsy Foundation. Focal Impaired Awareness Seizures. 2026. Available at: https://www.epilepsy.com/what-is-epilepsy/seizure-types/focal-impaired-consciousness-seizures

KidsHealth. Focal Impaired Awareness Seizures. Nemours Foundation. Available at: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/focal-impaired-aware-seizures.html

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