Causes Of Epilepsy
About 70% of instances of epilepsy cannot be attributed to a specific cause. This fact gives the disease a degree of ambiguity. It can affect any age group, but neonates and the elderly are more susceptible.
In cases where the cause is known, it may be one of the following:
Molecular genetics
In the majority of cases where epilepsy cannot be determined by a superficial examination, a genetic cause may be to blame. The genetic origin of epilepsy does not imply that it is inherited. This implies that even in the absence of a family history of epilepsy, a gene mutation may occur during foetal development. However, a significant family history is a more definitive genetic mutation risk factor. To induce seizures and cause epilepsy, a mutation in a large number of genes is required. Some mutations in the ion channels that maintain the electrical potential across membranes, which is essential for current conduction, may contribute to epilepsy onset. Angelman syndrome is an example of a genetic condition that affects cerebral development. Eight out of ten patients with this syndrome develop epilepsy.
