Neuron density in the molecular layer of the frontal cortex in primary generalized epilepsy.

Developmental disturbance of the brain as a factor in the causation of epilepsies has been suspected for a long time. An increase of nerve cells in the stratum moleculare, which is qualitatively observed in primary generalized epilepsy, is thought to be an indicator for slight maldevelopment. In this morphometric study, the neuron density of layer I in the frontal lobe in primary generalized epilepsy is measured. Compared with age-matched controls, the neuron density in primary generalized epilepsy is significantly increased. Thus, neuron density could be a significant index for the disturbance of regional maturation of the cortex.