Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Epilepsy

Abstract

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a form of focal electrical brain stimulation where electrical currents are induced in the brain using a powerful magnetic field. TMS has been approved for the treatment of major depression using a specific high frequency repetitive TMS (rTMS) protocol. Recently, low frequency rTMS (0.3-1 Hz), resulted in lasting reduction in cortical excitability suggesting a potential therapeutic value for patients with intractable epilepsy. The risks of rTMS are minimal but include a small possibility of triggering seizures. In this paper we present a comprehensive updated review on the use of TMS for the treatment of epilepsy. We conclude that TMS has a potentially important therapeutic role and should continue to be evaluated in properly designed clinical trials.