Immunological and genetic studies in primary generalized corticoreticular epilepsy

Serum immunoglobulin and HLA investigations were carried out in 21 probands with primary generalized corticoreticular epilepsy (PGCE) and in 26 of their first degree relatives. The mean serum levels of IgG, IgA and IgM in the epileptic probands were not significantly different from controls. In the relatives, however, the mean serum levels of IgA and IgM were significantly decreased as compared to controls. With respect to HLA investigations, the frequencies of 63 HLA specificities determined and of 5 most commonly occurring haplotypes were not significantly different in the experimental groups as compared to controls. These findings are in agreement with a previous HLA investigation of PGCE but are in contrast with a similar study of partial epilepsy. It is suggested that the contrasting HLA findings between PGCE and partial epilepsy may reflect underlying differences in the etiology of these disorders.