Task Force on Epilepsy Classification and Terminology

A Proposed Diagnostic Schema for People with Epileptic Seizures and with Epilepsy: Report of the ILAE Task Force on Classification and Terminology.

The system for classification of seizures and syndromes provides both patients and health care professionals with knowledge about epilepsy. This classification system assist professionals to identify epilepy types and the capability to provide appropriate treatments.

The establishment of standardized classifications and terminology for epileptic seizures and syndromes was a major contribution of the International League against Epilepsy. The Executive Committee of the ILAE which took office in July 1997, agreed that review and revision of the classification system would be a priority for this Executive term. A Task Force on Classification and Terminology was appointed, which divided itself into four working groups concerned with Descriptive Terminology for Ictal Events; Seizures; Syndromes and Diseases; and Impairment. The Task Force views the development of specific classifications as a continuing work in progress. Flexible and dynamic classifications will be revised periodically based not only on rapidly emerging new information, but also based on the resolution of problems that will inevitably be identified through usage.