This presentation provides a comprehensive review of the 2025 ILAE updates to both the classification of epileptic seizures and epilepsy syndromes. The session will cover the taxonomic framework for seizure classification—including the use of consciousness as a classifier, the distinction between observable and non-observable seizure types, and the incorporation of newly recognized entities—as well as the updated approach to syndrome diagnosis across the lifespan. Emphasis will be placed on practical application in clinical care, with case-based examples illustrating how accurate seizure and syndrome classification inform etiology-driven diagnosis, therapeutic choices, and prognostic counseling. Considerations for use in resource-limited settings, research, and policy development will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

1. Summarize the 2025 ILAE operational classification of seizures and epilepsy syndromes, including the hierarchical structure and key terminology updates.
2. Differentiate seizure types using the revised criteria for consciousness, observable manifestations, and specific semiologic features.
3. Recognize the major electroclinical syndromes across neonate, infantile, childhood, adolescent, and adult onset groups, and understand their etiologic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications.
4. Integrate seizure classification with syndrome diagnosis to improve diagnostic precision, guide investigations (e.g., genetics, imaging), and inform treatment selection.
5. Apply the updated classifications to real-world clinical scenarios, research studies, and multidisciplinary care planning, including communication with patients, families, and policymakers.
6. Evaluate how these classification updates enhance global harmonization, support education, and align with precision medicine initiatives in epilepsy.

1.0 CEU is available through ASET

SEEG interpretation relies on the compartmentalization of the epileptogenic region into ‘lesional’, ‘irritative’, and ‘epileptogenic’ zones to differentiate interictal and ictal abnormalities. This approach avoids any bias in localization, i.e. causing confusion between lesion and epilepsy, or between spikes and seizures. We will review what these different terms mean, which are the relevant biomarkers that help to differentiate these 3 zones, what are their causal relationship, and how their identification then allows, through their 3D representation, a careful individualized planning of the surgical resection.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that SEEG interpretation starts with electrode implantation
• Identify relevant paroxysmal activities
• Identify relevant seizure onset patterns
• Understand how to use stimulation

1.0 CEU is available through ASET