Genetic factors in temporal lobe epilepsy.

Genetic investigation of 74 patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, resistant to medication, who underwent unilateral temporal lobectomy 1960-1969. Thirty per cent had a positive family history of epilepsy; 49 per cent of other neurological diseases; and 46 per cent of major psychiatric disorders. Neither of the genetic factors per se influenced the therapeutic result or the psychiatric status at follow-up. A multiple epileptic or neurological predisposition affecting first degree relatives unfavourably influenced the prognosis regarding relief from seizures. A multiple psychiatric predisposition in parents and/or siblings unfavourably influenced the psychiatric status.