Self-Regulation of Slow Cortical Potentials and Its Role in Epileptogenesis

The prevalence of epileptic disorders is estimated to be around 1%, amounting to 1.5 million people in the United States. In at least one-third of all cases the epileptic seizures cannot be adequately controlled through antiepileptic medication. About 20% of the epileptic population is considered refractory to anticonvulsant management. And even if the seizures can be brought under control by antiepileptic medication, the side effects of the drugs put considerable strains on the patient’s life (Penry & Rahel, 1986). Research has been conducted on alternative approaches relying on behavioral treatment alone or in combination with pharmacological treatment. Behavioral techniques generally have negligible side effects, which of course is highly desirable.