Table 2 Important epilepsy-related brain zones and definitions (adapted from [59])

Epileptogenic zone

Region of cortex that can generate epileptic seizures and removal or disconnection of which should lead to seizure freedom

Epileptogenic lesion

Distinct brain lesion, capable of generating and sustaining epileptic seizures

Excitable zone

Region susceptible to excitation spreading from a primary focus

Irritative zone

Region of cortex that generates interictal epileptiform discharges on EEG

Seizure/ictal onset zone

Region where a clinical seizure originates

Symptomatogenic zone

Region of cortex that generates the initial seizure presentation (signs)

Functional deficit zone

Region of cortex that in the interictal period is clinically and/or electrophysiologically abnormal

Ictal/postictal changes

Nonspecific tissue changes due to local excitotoxicity