Literature-Based Review on Insights and Developments of Epileptic Activities

Abstract

Epilepsy, a complex neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, presents significant challenges in clinical management due to its diverse etiologies and manifestations. This review comprehensively examines the historical perspectives, mechanisms, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, therapeutic interventions, and recent advances in epilepsy research. Early understanding of epilepsy, rooted in ancient theories, has evolved significantly, leading to key milestones such as the development of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and surgical interventions. The neurobiological mechanisms of epilepsy involve neurotransmitter imbalances, ion channel dysfunctions, and genetic factors, which contribute to the disorder’s complexity. Environmental and lifestyle factors also play a critical role in seizure activity. The review highlights the diversity of seizure types, the challenges in diagnosis due to overlapping symptoms with other neurological disorders, and the limitations of current diagnostic tools. Therapeutic strategies include pharmacological treatments, with specific AEDs targeting various seizure types, surgical options for drug-resistant epilepsy, and non-pharmacological approaches like the ketogenic diet. Recent research focuses on novel therapeutic targets, advancements in neuroimaging, and the potential for personalized medicine in epilepsy management. Despite significant progress, unresolved questions and methodological limitations persist, underscoring the need for ongoing research. This review concludes by emphasizing the implications of these findings for clinical practice and future research directions, advocating for a more nuanced and personalized approach to epilepsy treatment.