Experimental models of chronic focal epilepsy: a critical review of four models.

A number of experimental (i.e., animal) models have been developed to induce chronic focal epilepsy. Three of the most commonly employed are the alumina cream, kainic acid, and the electrical kindling techniques. A fourth approach involving the application of minute quantities of tetanus toxin to discrete brain sites, although relatively under-utilized, may be favorably compared to the aforementioned models.