Risk of epilepsy diagnosis after a first unprovoked seizure in dementia

Assessment of recurrence risk is fundamental after a first epileptic seizure. In general, the risk of recurrence is approximately 21–45 % in the next five years; brain disorders like trauma, infections and stroke increase the risk of recurrence, as do nocturnal seizures, imaging abnormalities, epileptiform activity on the electroencephalogram (EEG), or abnormal neurological examination [1,2]. Based on the risk assessment, patients may be counselled on safety or driving. In some circumstances, clinicians may also offer antiseizure medication (ASM) already after a first seizure.

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