Abstract
<jats:p>Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizure events with either motor manifestations or nonmotor symptoms; it is caused by disturbances of electrical activity in the brain. The most characteristic symptoms of epilepsy are motor seizures and loss of consciousness, or a combination of both. However, in recent clinical practice, many complaints are atypical; a variety of symptoms are frequently encountered that are often not recognized as epilepsy. These symptoms include sensory phenomena, autonomic symptoms, cognitive disturbances, sensations of déjà vu, and recurrent headaches without neurological deficits or typical epileptic features, yet electroencephalographic examination reveals numerous epileptogenic discharges. Patients may experience uncomfortable sensations without clear motor manifestations. There may also be brief episodes of blank staring or transient loss of consciousness, resembling absence or petit mal seizures, but electroencephalography does not show 3-Hz spike-and-wave discharges. Lack of awareness of these manifestations can lead to delays or even errors in diagnosis. Early recognition of atypical epileptic symptoms is expected to improve diagnostic accuracy and optimal management. With a more comprehensive understanding of atypical clinical features of epilepsy, patients’ quality of life can be improved through timely and targeted therapy. Electroencephalographic examination appears to be crucial at present for establishing an early diagnosis of epilepsy, because without it, many cases or events may pose a risk to the patient and even to others nearby, such as single-vehicle accidents due to transient loss of consciousness.</jats:p>