Definition & Classification

Current Definitions and Classifications

The ILAE strives to provide definitions for key concepts and classification schemes that will help the world epilepsy community in developing a common language to communicate effectively regarding the many facets of epilepsy. It is also hoped that the clear terminology, based on available evidence, will help develop treatments adapted to each condition.

ILAE Classification and Definition of Epilepsy Syndromes
Position papers by the ILAE Nosology and Definitions Task Force, Epilepsia (2022)

ILAE Classification of Seizures and the Epilepsies: Modification for seizures in the neonate
Position paper by the ILAE Task Force on Neonatal Seizures, Epilepsia (2021)

Definition of Epilepsy 2014

Operational Classification of Seizure Types by the ILAE (2017) Position paper of the ILAE Commission for Classification and Terminology

ILAE Classification of the Epilepsies (2017): Position paper of the ILAE Commission for Classification and Terminology

Other definition/classification documents

• Which terms should be used to describe medications used in the treatment of seizure disorders? An ILAE position paper, Epilepsia (2024)
• Proposed consensus definitions for new‐onset refractory status epilepticus (NORSE), febrile infection‐related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES), and related conditions (2018)
• A definition and classification of status epilepticus – Report of the ILAE Task Force on Classification of Status Epilepticus. Eugen Trinka et al. Epilepsia (2015)
• ICD coding for epilepsy: Past, present, and future – A report by the International League Against Epilepsy Task Force on ICD codes in epilepsy (2015)
• International consensus classification of hippocampal sclerosis in temporal lobe epilepsy. (2013)
• The clinicopathologic spectrum of focal cortical dysplasias: A consensus classification proposed by an ad hoc Task Force. (2011)

Archive

Definition and Classification Archive
The archive page contains links to drafts and early versions of documents for historical and research purposes only.