Epilepsy. Historical Contextualization [A Epilepsia. Contextualização Histórica]

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2014

Authors

Costa, V (Author) Other; Ricon Ferraz, Amélia (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Sinapse

Vol. 14

Pages: 31-38

ISSN: 1645-281X

Publisher: Sociedade Portuguesa de Neurologia

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00G-1AH

Abstract (EN): Dating back more than 3000 years, epilepsy is one of the few neurological diseases which have been described since antiquity. The objective of this revision was to explore and compile chronologically, the way this pathology was interpreted and seen, from the beginnings to the present. This route, given the sensational nature of epilepsy, is full of the most diverse theories that seek to explain its etiology and treatment. From the earliest records, reporting it as being of supernatural origin, associated with demonic entities and magic acts, through Hippocrates, who vehemently rejects these concepts, the History of Epilepsy is marked, at an early stage, by the conflict between the natural and supernatural. This contrast has accompanied this disease throughout history and, despite the wide diffusion of Science and extensive progression of Medicine nowadays, it still occurs in some regions of the globe. More recently, Hughlings Jackson and his predecessors, through an evidence-based Medicine, pave the way for modern Epileptology, following a deep and widespread scientific development. Portugal follows closely the scientific transformations and the forms of diagnosis and treatment advocated internationally, seeking to provide improved health care and the promotion of social integration of the epileptic.

Language: Portuguese

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific