Gender differences in epilepsy : perceived or real?

Abstract

Epilepsy is the third most common chronic neurological condition across all ages, affecting around 1% of the population world wide. While epidemiological studies do not indicate any differences in the incidence of epilepsy in males and females, there may be significant differences in the impact and effect the condition may have between males and females across all ages. These differences may not only be due to possible differences in antiepileptic drug (AED) efficacy, AED drug-drug interactions due to hormonal differences, and possible teratogenetic effects in women of child bearing age, but also differences in the social impact of the condition. These issues challenge both the woman with epilepsy, and the various health care professionals involved in her care.