Genetic Epilepsy and Other Causes
Epilepsy is genetic in about 30% to 40% of cases.
About half of the time, thecause of epilepsyis unknown.
When a cause can’t be found, it is called cryptogenic epilepsy.
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For the other half of epilepsy cases, the causes may be easier to identify.
Read on to learn more about how genetics can play a role in the development andtreatment of epilepsy.
Not everyone with genetic mutations that predispose them to epilepsy will go on to develop the condition.
It’s thought that environmental factors may also contribute.
If several of these genes are present, however, epilepsy becomes more likely.
Idiopathic epilepsies include:
Over 200 genes have been identified as “epilepsy genes.”
Many other genes have also been shown to cause genetic disorders that can involve epilepsy orseizures.
Some gene mutations don’t cause epilepsy to develop but can still affect a person with epilepsy.
However, this does not necessarily mean the personinherited epilepsy.
Just having gene mutations that increase the risk of epilepsy doesn’t necessarily mean you will develop epilepsy.
Inheritance can play a role too.
The risk is higher if the biological mother has epilepsy than if the biological father does.
Having a sibling with epilepsy can also increase the risk, especially an identical twin.
Most children who have a parent with epilepsy don’t develop epilepsy, but there is an increased risk.
Inherited epilepsy can be complex.
Thesymptoms of genetic epilepsycan vary.
Idiopathic generalized epilepsy involves both sides of the brain and can affect all areas of the body.
It usually starts in childhood or adolescence.
Symptoms of generalized seizures include:
Some people with epilepsy experience partial seizures (also calledfocal seizures).
Who Should Get a Genetic Assessment?
Other Causes of Epilepsy
Epilepsycan be triggered by a number of factors in addition to genetics.
Seizures may not show up immediately after thetraumatic head injurybut appear later on.
Theleading cause of epilepsyin people over the age of 35 is damage from a stroke.
Brain malformations, including vascular malformations, may also result in epilepsy.
Can a Genetic Test Diagnose Epilepsy?
A genetic assessment may be suggested after an epilepsy diagnosis is made to look for a genetic cause.
Mutations in genes that can lead to epilepsy may be passed down from a biological parent or occur spontaneously.
Often epilepsy develops through an interaction between genetic and environmental factors.
If you have or suspect you or your child has epilepsy, talk to your healthcare provider.
It’s important to get a proper diagnosis and start anynecessary treatmentas early as possible.
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