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Updated: Jan 30, 2026
08:25
Evaluating the Function of the Foot Core System in the Elderly
Published on: March 11, 2022
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Summary
In older adults experiencing their first seizure, a cause remains unidentified in 50% of cases. Cerebrovascular disease is the most common identified cause, differing from previous adult-onset epilepsy studies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Epileptology
Background:
- First-time seizures in older adults (≥69 years) present diagnostic challenges.
- Understanding the etiology of late-onset seizures is crucial for effective management.
- Previous studies on adult-onset epilepsy may not fully represent the elderly population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes of first-time seizures in elderly patients.
- To compare the etiological distribution in this age group with existing literature on adult-onset epilepsy.
- To determine the proportion of identifiable and treatable causes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 50 patients aged 69 years or older presenting with a first seizure.
- Categorization of seizure types (focal motor vs. generalized).
- Identification and classification of underlying causes.
Main Results:
- A cause was identified in only 50% of patients.
- Cerebrovascular disease was the most frequent cause (30%).
- Treatable causes were found in 20%; only one tumor was identified.
- Focal motor seizures (56%) had a higher rate of established cause (57%) than generalized seizures (44%, 41%).
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of first seizures in the elderly remain cryptogenic.
- Cerebrovascular disease is a primary etiological factor in late-onset seizures.
- The etiological profile differs from younger adult populations, necessitating age-specific diagnostic approaches.
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