[Progress and Challenges in Epilepsy Treatment].

Abstract

Neurologists have played an important role in the treatment of adult epilepsy for more than 60 years since the establishment of the Japanese Society of Neurology. The terminology used in epileptology in Japan is adopted from that used by the International League Against Epilepsy. The terminology for seizures observed in temporal lobe epilepsy has transitioned from psychomotor to complex partial and currently to focal impaired awareness seizures. Second- and third-generation anti-seizure medications (ASM) are currently available, and several new first-line agents have emerged in clinical practice. ASM that are relatively safe for the fetus during pregnancy are currently available, and advances have been made in research and treatment of epilepsy in the elderly population. Although surgical treatment for epilepsy is advancing, it is not widely performed in Japan. We hope that neurologists continue to contribute to epilepsy care.