Epilepsy in Nepal.

This is a review of epilepsy in Nepal. Nepal is a predominantly rural country with a population of 21 million. A community-based survey in Morang district showed that the prevalence of epilepsy was 7.3 per 1,000 population. A cohort of 300 cases in Shree Birendra Military Hospital showed that neurocysticercosis was the most important etiological cause. There are seven neurologists, 10 CT scanners, three MRIs, and four EEG machines in the country. The practice of anticonvulsant use varied according to different geographical locations. The treatment gap may be in excess of 70%. The epidemiology study in Morang district showed that the proportion seeking modern treatment was higher among those with more frequent seizure. None of the patients were able to attribute their illness to brain disease. Various forms of traditional treatment are widely practiced in all casts among Hindus as well as Buddhists.