Epilepsy is a disorder marked by recurring seizures due to abnormal activity of nerve cells, called neurons, in the brain. In the United States, about 2 million people have this condition and as many as 150,000 more people develop epilepsy each year, about a third of them children.
Epilepsy may have many possible causes such as an imbalance of nerve-signaling chemicals called neurotransmitters or an attempt by the brain to repair itself after a head injury or stroke, which could inadvertently generate abnormal nerve connections. Other types of epilepsy run in families and have been tied to specific genes.
The Epilepsy Center at UCSF Medical Center provides diagnostic and treatment services that have used us a level four rating — the highest level available — from the National Association of Epilepsy Centers.
The diagnostic program includes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), to provide images of the brain as well as electrical studies such as an electroencephalogram (EEG to record brain waves.
Treatments include medication, brain surgery, vagus nerve stimulation and experimental therapies that involve drugs, devices and surgery. Patients also have the opportunity to participate in studies, called clinical trials, to test the latest experimental treatments. Clinical trials make new drugs, therapies and surgical procedures available to patients before they're widely available to the general public.
See our UCTV Video, Epilepsy — The Sacred Disease on YouTube.
The two categories of seizures are generalized and focal.
Generalized seizures are caused by abnormal electrical impulses in the brain and typically occur with no warning. There are six types of generalized seizures.
During your visit to the Epilepsy Center, we will record your medical history — as well as your family's medical history — and conduct diagnostic tests. Your neurologist will determine the type of seizures you're having and the cause. If you're diagnosed with epilepsy, your doctor will identify the specific type you have to determine the best treatment.
We will ask many questions about your seizures. If you lose consciousness during your seizures, please bring a family member or friend, who might help describe what happens during your seizures.
Some of the questions you can expect include:
Your neurology team at the Epilepsy Center, along with your primary care doctor, will design a treatment plan tailored to your condition and individual needs. You may require more than one kind of treatment — such as medication and surgery — and may be referred to or other medical professionals.
Most seizures can be prevented with medication. The type of medication prescribed for you will depend on your condition. Your neurologist will explain how to take your medication and what side effects might occur. Over time, your medication may be changed to find the right drug and dose. Be sure to take your medication as directed. Call your neurologist if you have questions or have any unexpected side effects.
For some patients, surgery may be recommended to prevent seizures or to implant devices that deliver medications or stimulators to emit electrical impulses. Your neurologist will explain the procedure as well as possible risks.
Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Epilepsy Center
400 Parnassus Ave., Eighth Floor
San Francisco, CA 94143
Phone: (415) 353-2437
Fax: (415) 353-2837
Appointment information
