Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026
12:10
Performing Behavioral Tasks in Subjects with Intracranial Electrodes
Published on: October 2, 2014
Methodological issues in estimating the cost of epilepsy.
C E Begley1, J F Annegers, D R Lairson
1The University of Texas, Houston, School of Public Health, 77225, USA.
Epilepsy Research
|February 18, 1999
Summary
The cost of epilepsy in the USA has not been comprehensively studied since 1975. This review examines epilepsy cost research and methodological issues, highlighting a 1993 study update.
Area of Science:
- Medical Economics
- Public Health
- Epilepsy Research
Background:
- Managed care and cost containment have increased interest in epilepsy costs.
- The last comprehensive US cost study was in 1975, estimating $3.6 billion nationally.
- Previous studies show wide cost variations ($6,000-$15,000 per patient/year).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the state of epilepsy cost-of-illness (COI) research.
- To discuss methodological challenges in COI studies.
- To describe a comprehensive US study initiated in 1993.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epilepsy cost-of-illness (COI) studies.
- Analysis of methodological issues in existing research.
- Description of a large-scale US study updating 1975 estimates.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in interest in epilepsy cost data.
- Variability in direct and indirect cost percentages across studies.
- A comprehensive US study initiated in 1993 to provide updated estimates.
Conclusions:
- Need for updated and standardized epilepsy cost-of-illness research.
- Importance of addressing methodological issues for accurate cost assessment.
- Recommendations for future research methods in epilepsy economics.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease marked by recurrent, unpredictable seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, leading to behavior, sensation, or consciousness alterations. They can also cause transient impairment of awareness, interfering with daily activities.
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
01:22Epilepsy ll: Types
Recurrent seizures, stemming from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, are the defining characteristic of epilepsy, a chronic neurological condition. Because seizure features vary greatly, epilepsy is classified using two systems: by seizure type and by epilepsy syndromes. These classifications enable clinicians to describe seizure patterns and select suitable treatment strategies.I. Classification by Seizure Type1. Focal EpilepsyFocal epilepsy begins in one hemisphere of the brain.