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Epilepsy is a seizure disorder characterized by disturbances of brain function.
McCabe reports that it affects all ages but the disease is more prevalent in children under 10 and adults over 50. We don't know what causes epilepsy and there is a lot of basic research going on at Hershey and throughout the country to try and find a genetic link. In most cases a patient has had a seizure and then come to Hershey for McCabe and his team to diagnose the problem. Data from these tests along with information from the patient and their family help the doctor make the diagnosis. Because there are different classifications of seizures and also depending on the patient's age and family history, any of a number of different medications may help a patient.