New approaches to paediatric epilepsy

Clinical and basic research in paediatric epilepsy continues to have a direct impact on the diagnosis and treatment of children with seizures. In recent years, advances in molecular biology are beginning to unravel the molecular processes underlying childhood epilepsy, and there is increased understanding of the role of ion channels (and their interacting proteins) in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. Clinical trials and Cochrane reviews of diagnosis, treatment and outcome have also contributed to the management of paediatric epilepsy.