Abstract
Ever since the Rodin' review on the prognosis of epilepsy appeared in 1968, it has been believed that the prognosis of epilepsy is generally poor, and that many patients with epileptic disorders need to take antiepileptic drugs for a lifelong period. In Japan, many practioners participating in the treatment of epilepsy also have been influenced by the traditionally pessimistic view. Recent studies, however, indicate that the prognosis of epilepsy is much more favorable than has been implied by the previous study. The authors tried to reduce gradually antiepileptic drugs when patiens have been free from seizures for more than two years and also epileptic discharges have disappeared during the period. During the reduction of medication, EEG recordings were repeatedly conducted to certify the disappearance of epileptic discharges. Using both the criteria and procedures the authors could discontinue antiepileptic drugs without the recurrence of seizures.
The authots reported 15 patients who had had seizures for many years but have been free from seizures following the withdrawal of medicaion. BECCT and typical abcence with 3 c/s spike and wave complexes were not included in the patients. Of the 15, 10 were patients with partial seizures and the remains were those with generalized seizures. The authors conclude from these data that some patients with chronic epilepsy can be withdawn from medications without relapse if therapists adopt suitable criteria and procedures.
