The prevalence of psychiatric disorders in epilepsy: a critical review of the evidence
Jones, R.; Rickards, H.; Cavanna, A.E.
Functional Neurology 25(4): 191-194
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 0393-5264 PMID: 21388578 Document Number: 644519
Psychopathology has long been associated with epilepsy and should not be overlooked as it could exacerbate the epilepsy itself and impair the health-related quality of life of sufferers. A higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders has frequently been demonstrated amongst patients with epilepsy compared both with the general population and with individuals presenting neurological or non-neurological conditions. This review critically evaluates selected studies on the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in epilepsy patients compared with the general population and controls. Heterogeneity exists across the research methodologies, therefore further research, using less selected groups, should be undertaken to allow valid comparisons and the identification of more precise prevalence rates.