This month’s Epilepsy Research News highlights two recent findings that help us understand how focal seizures might spread through the brain, affecting areas outside of the original seizure “focus” (the area where the seizure begins).

We also feature news about recently created tools for detecting anxiety disorders in individuals with epilepsy, addressing an important comorbidity.

Summaries of these research discoveries and news highlights are below.

Research Discoveries & News

• Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: The function of certain “brake cells” (otherwise known as interneurons) in the brain is impaired in some forms of epilepsy, according to a study utilizing both a rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy and computer simulations. Dysfunction of these cells may allow brain electrical signals to spread from one part of the brain to another. Learn More
• Focal Seizures: The spread of focal seizures through the brain can be regulated by the amount of “push” or “pull” on those seizures from brain areas surrounding the focus. Study authors suggest that future treatments should consider not only the area of the brain where the seizure originated, but also surrounding areas. Learn More
• Epilepsy and Anxiety: Two measures to detect anxiety disorders in people with epilepsy have been created by an Australian research group. The authors note that these survey measures are important potential solutions to improve the understanding and detection of anxiety in those with epilepsy. Learn More
• SUDEP: A recent nationwide study of the Icelandic population during a 20-year period found a similar Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) incidence to that found in previous studies examining different populations. The estimated incidence of SUDEP in the epilepsy population was 1.3 per 1000 person‐years, confirming SUDEP as a noteworthy cause of death amongst those with epilepsy. Learn More
• Febrile Seizures: A national cohort study in Denmark found recurrent febrile seizures to be associated with an increased risk of developing epilepsy and psychiatric disorders. Learn More

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