Epilepsy is a condition of recurrent seizures for which there is no underlying or correctable cause. Seizures resulting from systemic and metabolic disturbances are not considered epileptic if the seizures cease when the underlying problem is corrected. Seizure is not a disease entity unto itself; rather, it is a syndrome resulting from congenital or biochemical disorders, trauma, cerebral lesions, or toxicity that affects the brain in a variety of ways. Seizures generally last a short time and rarely cause permanent damage. Some seizures are preceded by an aura or a prodrome, which is an indication of an impending seizure.

Status epilepticus are seizures that last longer than 20 minutes or the experience of subsequent seizures before the individual has fully regained consciousness from a preceding seizure. It is a medical emergency commonly due to the abrupt withdrawal of antiseizure medications. Without intervention, brain damage may occur.