Are Generalized and Localization-Related Epilepsies Genetically Distinct?

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Abstract
THE RISK of epilepsy generally has been found to be higher in the relatives of probands with generalized epilepsy than in the relatives of probands with localization-related epilepsy.1 Two alternative genetic models can be proposed to explain this observation. The first model assumes that the genetic influences on risk are different for generalized and localization-related epilepsies. This model predicts that relatives of probands with specific types of epilepsy will have increased risk only for the same types of epilepsy as in the probands. The second model assumes that the genetic influences on risk are the same for both types of epilepsy, but a higher genetic susceptibility is required to cause generalized epilepsy than localization-related epilepsy. This model predicts that risk for both types of epilepsy will be higher in the relatives of probands with generalized epilepsy than in the relatives of probands with localization-related epilepsy.