The Causes of Epilepsy: Drug-induced seizures

This chapter reviews some of the parasitic disorders including sparganosis, toxocariasis, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis and paragonimiasis, which may involve the central nervous system (CNS) and for which an association with seizures and epilepsy has been described. It is important that neurologists across the globe are aware of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of the parasitic disorders. Although the association between epilepsy and parasitic diseases has been generally recognized, most research and literature concerning the association is related to infection with Taenia solium cysticercosis. When brain lesions are demonstrated on imaging studies of individuals presenting with seizures, histological examination of these lesions through biopsy provides proof of the causal association between the parasitic disorder and seizures. The effects of anthelminthic drugs and the role of antiepileptic drugs on the seizure outcome also need to be considered. The aim is to eradicate these disorders through scientifically established and properly legislated preventive measures.