Webinar on Epilepsy and Genetics: The Basics

Update

Watch the recording of this webinar.

Learn even more about genes and epilepsy, genetic counseling and genetic testing

Originally published on December 27, 2019.

Webinar Recorded on Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Watch an educational webinar, "Epilepsy and Genetics: The Basics." Genetics is an important and continuously expanding area of learning in medicine and research. Genetic testing can help to make clear the cause of disease, which has the potential to lead to new treatments and improved use of currently available treatments.

Over the past decade, we have learned there are hundreds of genes that play a role in epilepsy. Sometimes, a single change in a gene may be enough to cause epilepsy or an epilepsy syndrome. In other cases, it may be that gene changes increase the likelihood of epilepsy occurring, but perhaps an environmental factor is also required. Advances in the genetics of epilepsy help us better understand the disease and the possibilities for improving treatment for people living with epilepsy.

Webinar

“Epilepsy and Genetics: The Basics”

• Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2020
• Time: 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET

Topics

• The basics of genes and genetic testing
• What do we know about the genetics of epilepsy?
• What are the benefits and limitations of testing?
• What genetic tests are available for people with epilepsy?
• How do I go about getting testing and insurance coverage?

Guest Speaker

Beth Rosen Sheidley MS, CGC
Co-Director, Epilepsy Genetics Program
Senior Genetic Counseling Program Manager
Division of Epilepsy, Department of Neurology
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, MA

Moderator

 

Elaine Kiriakopoulos MD, MSc
Director, Health Communications and Engagement
Epilepsy Foundation

Note: presenters cannot address individual medical concerns and cannot provide individual advice.