Epilepsy Behav. 2025 Sep 1;172:110696. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2025.110696. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) has recently updated the classification of epileptic seizures. This study aims to explore the perspectives of a broad group of neurologists and neurology residents regarding the new classification.
METHODS: A structured, anonymous online survey was distributed among adult general neurologists, epileptologists, and neurology residents across 10 Spanish-speaking countries. A 23-item questionnaire covered demographic data and opinions on the ILAE seizure classifications. Descriptive and bivariate statistical analyses were performed.
RESULTS: A total of 124 participants completed the survey. While 56.5 % supported updating the 2017 classification, 53.3 % felt the revision came too soon. The 2017 version remained the preferred seizure classification (48.8 %), followed by the 2025 update (30.1 %) and earlier versions. Although 44.7 % of respondents expressed a favourable opinion of the 2025 classification, most participants feel it does not address the limitations of the previous version. Epileptologists were significantly more favourable toward the update (61.9 %) and rated it higher. Neurology residents were the most critical subgroup. Nearly half (49.6 %) of participants expect to adopt the new classification in their clinical practice, while 26.0 % are undecided, and 24.4 % believe they will not.
CONCLUSION: The 2025 ILAE seizure classification received mixed feedback from a considerable group of neurologists and neurology residents. While epileptologists were more receptive, many non-epileptologist neurologists and residents questioned its timing and practical benefit. The 2017 version remains the most accepted version of all ILAE classifications. Nevertheless, the new classification is expected to be widely adopted in clinical practice.
PMID:40897133 | DOI:10.1016/j.yebeh.2025.110696
