Famous Epileptics in History
- Author:
Keun Tae KIM
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Biography
- Keywords: Epilepsy; Diagnosis; History; Biography
- MeSH: Diagnosis; Epilepsy; Medical Records; Retrospective Studies; Stroke
- From:Journal of the Korean Neurological Association 2018;36(3):171-177
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
- Abstract: BACKGROUND: There are numerous famous epileptics, some of whom are merely rumors or fictional, and many of which have been designated as such without objective considerations. METHODS: Six famous epileptics were selected and investigated in various literature sources from a medical point of view, focusing on peer-reviewed journals, biographies, books, and media. RESULTS: The diagnosis of epilepsy in two leaders prior to the 19th century was uncertain due to the lack of objective evidence. The diagnosis could be established in two artists in the 19th century, while it is certain that two politicians in the 20th century had epilepsy, probably due to stroke. CONCLUSIONS: Retrospective diagnoses of epilepsy require documentation of detailed symptoms and medical records of epilepsy. This retrospective review of the literature can provide a basis for assessing famous historical epileptics.
