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Epilepsy in alzheimer's disease: pathophysiological mechanisms and diagnostic features

https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2025-15-46-50

Abstract

Epileptic seizures in Alzheimer's disease (AD) represent a significant clinical challenge that substantially affects disease progression and patients' quality of life. This review examines current understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying paroxysmal activity in AD, including the role of β-amyloid, tau protein, and neuroinflammation. Special attention is given to novel diagnostic approaches, including biomarkers, neuroimaging techniques, and EEG monitoring protocols. The clinical features of epileptic seizures in AD, their classification, and age-related differences in manifestation are analyzed. The review addresses the problem of epilepsy underdiagnosis in AD, which reaches 70% of cases in routine clinical practice. Current diagnostic algorithms and clinical guidelines are presented. The review emphasizes the necessity of an interdisciplinary approach to diagnosis and the importance of early identification of epileptic activity as a potential marker of neurodegenerative process.

About the Authors

A. M. Azhigova
Russian University of Medicine
Russian Federation

Azhigova Asya M., PhD Med, neurologist at Dept of Neurology



T. I. Konovalova
Center for Neurology, Diagnosis and Treatment of Epilepsy LLC «EpiCenter»
Russian Federation

Konovalova Tatyana I., neurologist



P. N. Vlasov
Russian University of Medicine
Russian Federation

Vlasov Pavel N., DM Sci (habil.), professor, head of Dept of Neurology



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Review

For citations:


Azhigova A.M., Konovalova T.I., Vlasov P.N. Epilepsy in alzheimer's disease: pathophysiological mechanisms and diagnostic features. Medical alphabet. 2025;(15):46-50. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2025-15-46-50

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ISSN 2078-5631 (Print)
ISSN 2949-2807 (Online)