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[A study of genetic patterns of idiopathic epilepsy]
1Department of Medical Genetics. Weifang Medical College, Weifang, 261042 P. R. China.
Objective:
To explore genetic patterns of idiopathic epilepsy (IEP).
Methods:
Using familial analysis, tests for multifactorial inheritance and segregation analysis, we studied 210 pedigrees with IEP found in a population survey in Shangdong province.
Results:
The genetic pattern of IEP is not polygenic but is mainly influenced by autosomal recessive disorders. The results of segregation analysis indicate that the genetic pattern of U*U multiplex families and U*A group is autosomal recessive. Only a few cases in U*U group may accept the assumption of autosomal recessive inheritance while the other are sporadic cases. The frequency of sporadic cases is approximately 78.5%. Genetic heterogeneity may influence U*U(f) group and U*U group.
Conclusion:
Further and careful empirical scrutiny of U*U(f) group and the sporadic cases in U*U group offers the best hope for getting a clear understanding of genetic patterns and mechanisms in IEP.