Quality of life and comorbid medical and psychiatric conditions in temporal lobe epilepsy

Patients with epilepsy frequently report dissatisfaction with their quality of life (QOL), and there is considerable interest in understanding the factors and mechanisms associated with this perception. To date, investigation has focused on the potential contribution of seizure variables (e.g., seizure control) and psychiatric conditions to QOL, but there has not been an examination of the potential role of comorbid medical conditions. Information was gathered concerning current medical and psychiatric conditions for 93 patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, and their relationship with QOL was examined. The numbers of medical and psychiatric conditions were distinct and significant predictors of QOL satisfaction, and both were stronger correlates than seizure-related factors and demographic variables. The implications of these findings for the treatment and management of patients with epilepsy are discussed.