First Seizures and Epilepsy

First Seizure

Who to refer:

• Anyone in whom you suspect a possible first ever epileptic seizure or new diagnosis of epilepsy, and think would benefit from a specialist opinion regarding diagnosis, investigations and possible treatment.
• What tests should you do in advance: Ideally, FBC, urea and electrolytes, calcium, glucose, liver function tests and ECG

Who not to refer:

• Those who already have a diagnosis and you wish a further opinion regarding their condition. They should be referred via SCI Gateway (Neurology)
• Those who may not benefit from investigation or treatment (e.g. people with advanced dementia living in a care home). We are always happy to offer advice in such scenarios (Dr RJ Davenport or Prof Jon Stone via email)

Please use SCI-gateway at RIE >> Neurology >> First seizure clinic

How to Access the Clinics:

1. Contact DCN OP via loth.wghdcnapptoffice@nhs.scot to request the next available First Seizure clinic appointment. Please ensure this appt is made known to the patient; the short lead time means that letters of appt will not be sent out.
2. Send referral letter via Gateway (First seizure clinic) and include appt date/time.
3. Remind patient to bring all prescription medications with them and ideally a witness (or witness be accessible by phone).
4. Provide advice where applicable regarding driving (www.gov.uk)

Patients with established epilepsy may be referred via SCI Gateway and will be triaged appropriately.

• Fitness to Drive (gov.uk)
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
• Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN)
• Epilepsy Society – www.epilepsysociety.org.uk
• Epilepsy.org – www.epilepsy.org.uk
• Epilepsy Scotland – www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk