Neurobiology of Epilepsy and Aging

This volume in the International Review of Neurobiology series addresses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of epilepsy in elderly patients. Demographically, the elderly comprise both the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population and the adult age group with the highest incidence of epilepsy, yet there are relatively few publications devoted to this clinical subgroup. The intersection of these two complex processes—epilepsy and advancing age—will have an increasing impact on medical and community care. The etiology, prognosis, and differential diagnosis of epilepsy can all be affected by the normal aging process and by the frequent comorbidities encountered in an elderly population. Chapters in this book review the effects of aging on brain function and on drug metabolism and interactions, covering the gamut of research from animal models of aging and epilepsy to clinical trials and outcomes. Topics also include the dangers of misdiagnosing status epilepticus, the special issues encountered in recruiting and retaining elderly clinical trial participants, and the use of antiepileptic drugs in the elderly. In both the clinic and the research laboratory, a better understanding of how epilepsy may differ between younger and older patients will be valuable in determining the best possible care for geriatric patients with epilepsy.

Epilepsy in the Elderly: Scope of the Problem

Animal Models in Gerontology Research

Animal Models of Geriatric Epilepsy

Life and Death of Neurons in The Aging Cerebral Cortex

An in vitro model of Stroke-Induced Epilepsy: Elucidation of The roles of Glutamate and Calcium in The induction and Maintenance of Stroke-Induced Epileptogenesis

Mechanisms of Action of Antiepileptic Drugs

Epidemiology and Outcomes of Status Epilepticus in The Elderly

Diagnosing Epilepsy in the Elderly

Pharmacoepidemiology in Community-Dwelling Elderly Taking Antiepileptic Drugs

Use of Antiepileptic Medications In Nursing Homes

Age-Related Changes in Pharmacokinetics: Predictability and Assessment Methods

Factors affecting Antiepileptic Drug Pharmacokinetics in Community-Dwelling Elderly

Pharmacokinetics of Antiepileptic Drugs in Elderly Nursing Home Residents

The Impact of Epilepsy on Older Veterans

Risk and Predictability of Drug Interactions in the Elderly

Outcomes in Elderly Patients With Newly Diagnosed and Treated Epilepsy

Recruitment and Retention in Clinical trials of The Elderly

Treatment of Convulsive Status Epilepticus

Treatment of Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus

Antiepileptic Drug Formulation and Treatment in the Elderly: Biopharmaceutical Considerations

Index

Contents of Recent Volumes