The concept of
epilepsy syndromes, introduced in 1989, was defined as "clusters of signs and symptoms customarily occurring together". Definition of
epilepsy syndromes based on electro-clinical features facilitated clinical practice and, whenever possible, clinical research in homogeneous groups of patients with
epilepsies. Progress in the fields of neuroimaging and genetics made it rapidly clear that, although crucial, the electro-clinical description of
epilepsy syndromes was not sufficient to allow much needed development of targeted
therapies and a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of
seizures. The 2017 ILAE position paper on Classification of the
Epilepsies recognized that "as a critical tool for the practicing clinician,
epilepsy classification must be relevant and dynamic to changes in thinking". The concept of "
epilepsy syndromes" evolved, incorporating issues related to aetiologies and comorbidities. A comprehensive update (and revision where necessary) of the EEG diagnostic criteria in the light of the 2017 revised terminology and concepts was deemed necessary. Part 2 covers the neonatal and paediatric syndromes in accordance with the age of onset. [Published with educational EEG plates at www.epilepticdisorders.com].