Basics of modern epilepsy classification and terminology

The terminology and classification of seizures and epilepsy has undergone multiple revisions in the last several decades, which can lead to confusion and miscommunication amongst physicians and researchers. In 2017, the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) revised the classification of both seizures and epilepsy types in an effort to use less ambiguous terminology. Over time, definitions for status epilepticus, febrile seizures, and neonatal seizures have also evolved, as has the delineation of various epilepsy syndromes by age.

Review of the literature for old and new terminology and various epilepsy syndromes was accomplished using the PubMed database system.

In the following article, we review old terminology for classifying seizures and epilepsy as compared to the new (2017) ILAE guidelines. We discuss neonatal seizures, status epilepticus, febrile seizures, autoimmune epilepsy and various epilepsy syndromes by age of onset.

Adopting a classification system that uses plain language allows for more effective and efficient communication between individuals and across specialties. Definitions of various syndromes and seizure types have evolved over time and are reviewed.