Towards a Probabilistic Definition of Seizures

TL;DR

This paper discusses the complexities of defining seizures universally, framing it as a multi-objective optimization problem, and proposes a Probabilistic Measure of Seizure Activity to better capture their fractal nature.

Contribution

It introduces a novel probabilistic approach to quantify seizure activity, addressing the challenges of a unified seizure definition and suggesting a revised conceptualization.

Findings

Highlights the multi-objective nature of seizure definition

Proposes a Probabilistic Measure of Seizure Activity

Suggests revising traditional seizure conceptualization

Abstract

This writing: a) Draws attention to the intricacies inherent to the pursuit of a universal seizure definition even when powerful, well understood signal analysis methods are utilized to this end; b) Identifies this aim as a multi-objective optimization problem and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of adopting or rejecting a unitary seizure definition; c) Introduces a Probabilistic Measure of Seizure Activity to manage this thorny issue. The challenges posed by the attempt to define seizures unitarily may be partly related to their fractal properties and understood through a simplistic analogy to the so-called "Richardson effect". A revision of the time-honored conceptualization of seizures may be warranted to further advance epileptology.