Pediatric epilepsy and psychopathology.

The association of psychiatric disorders and pediatric epilepsy is under appreciated by clinicians. Behavioral disorders, especially depression, are often perceived as "reactionary" processes. In fact, these comorbid disorders can be more disabling than the epilepsy itself. This review discusses the common behavioral comorbidities associated with epilepsy including autistic spectrum disorders, psychosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, and mood disorders.