The kindling model of epilepsy

As a model of epilepsy, kindling provides a source of clinical hypotheses, particularly with respect to the progression of epileptic symptomatology, the development of post-traumatic seizure disorders and the question of prophylactic anticonvulsant treatment for a limited time after head injury.

Abstract

Kindling is a lasting change in brain function that results from repeated focal stimulation and leads to the development of a predisposition to epileptiform convulsions. Although the neural basis of kindling is known to be very long-lasting, transynaptic, pathway-specific and widespread, a satisfactory explanation has not yet been provided. As a model of epilepsy, kindling provides a source of clinical hypotheses, particularly with respect to the progression of epileptic symptomatology due to a number of etiologies, the development of post-traumatic seizure disorders and the question of prophylactic anticonvulsant treatment for a limited time after head injury.