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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

gene testing for seizures

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member asked a question 💭

I received an email mentioned gene testing for seizures. Should my son(14 years old) do the test? Are there benefits for the treatment? I don't think it is necessary just for knowing if it is gene related.

October 29, 2025 (edited)
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A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I do think the AI-recommended article is good and would answer a lot of your questions. I am a science nerd, so I would probably have the test, and if anything showed up that was concerning, I would then test my child. Jak994 makes very valid points.

October 30, 2025
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Thanks!

October 29, 2025
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Yes, definitely do it. They do this to help identify specific gene types. These gene types help with better understanding of what's going on and that leads to better treatment.

October 29, 2025
MyEpilepsyTeam

Should your 14-year-old son get gene testing for his seizures?

Gene testing can be helpful for understanding your son's epilepsy better. While it's not used for every person with epilepsy, it can provide valuable information in certain situations.

Here are some potential benefits of genetic testing:

* Help doctors choose the Show Full Answer

Should your 14-year-old son get gene testing for his seizures?

Gene testing can be helpful for understanding your son's epilepsy better. While it's not used for every person with epilepsy, it can provide valuable information in certain situations.

Here are some potential benefits of genetic testing:

* Help doctors choose the most effective anti-seizure medications for your son
* Identify medications that might not work well or could cause worse side effects based on his specific genetic makeup
* Guide treatment decisions if he has a genetic form of epilepsy
* Provide insight into his prognosis and what to expect as he gets older
* Narrow down the cause of his epilepsy, helping his neurologist better understand his condition
* Help with family planning decisions in the future

Genetic testing typically involves a blood or saliva sample. There's no single test for all genetic epilepsies, so he might need multiple tests depending on what the doctor is looking for.

It's worth discussing with your son's neurologist whether genetic testing makes sense for his specific situation. They can explain whether his seizure type, family history, or other factors make testing particularly useful for guiding his treatment.

October 29, 2025
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Good post and? I agree with the ai mentioned about and other people's opinions here which is ok with that, I would get other people's opinions here and then go to your doc about the situation and condition you have at hand and go from there about the post here with your doc, and good luck with the outcome with it, my opinion here

October 29, 2025

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