Objective: To explore genetic patterns of idiopathic epilepsy (IEP).
Methods: Using familial analysis, tests for multifactorial inheritance and segregation analysis, we studied 210 pedigrees with IEP found in a population survey in Shangdong province.
Results: The genetic pattern of IEP is not polygenic but is mainly influenced by autosomal recessive disorders. The results of segregation analysis indicate that the genetic pattern of U*U multiplex families and U*A group is autosomal recessive. Only a few cases in U*U group may accept the assumption of autosomal recessive inheritance while the other are sporadic cases. The frequency of sporadic cases is approximately 78.5%. Genetic heterogeneity may influence U*U(f) group and U*U group.
Conclusion: Further and careful empirical scrutiny of U*U(f) group and the sporadic cases in U*U group offers the best hope for getting a clear understanding of genetic patterns and mechanisms in IEP.