Childhood Epilepsy

Sixty percent of the epilepsies start in childhood, and most of the clinically significant and often life-changing aspects of the disease occur at this time. Childhood epilepsy is frequently a complex disorder, demanding integrated medical, educational and community services. Its treatment encompasses acute and disability medicine. The many types or syndromes of childhood epilepsy present both diagnostic and management challenges. Although many children with epilepsy will be referred to specialist units, the majority will initially present to paediatricians and paediatric neurologists. This book provides a practical, problem-oriented manual to help clinicians with diagnosis, evaluation and management. This book addresses epilepsy as an evolving disorder from presentation, through active disease and finally to either spontaneous remission or a chronic lifelong condition. Structured on the child's age at presentation, Childhood Epilepsy offers a practical overview for paediatricians, paediatric neurologists and primary care practitioners who treat children with epilepsy in their daily practice. Although many children with epilepsy will be referred to specialist units, the majority will initially present to paediatricians and paediatric neurologists. This book provides a practical, problem-oriented manual to help these clinicians with the diagnosis, evaluation and management of children presenting in infancy, middle childhood and adolescence.