Impaired cognitive functions in temporal lobe epilepsy

Disorder such as temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures and is also the most common form of epilepsy in the population. Some of the most important human functions are believed to emerge from the temporal lobes. The temporal lobes are believed to play a crucial role in memory function, as well as other important human functions such as language processing and emotional regulation. Memory is a complex cognitive function that has huge implications for clinicians and supports the quality of life and daily functioning. Patients with temporal lobe epilepsy often have lower scores in cognitive performance, problems with learning, and behavioral impairment which can result in poor quality of life. I performed a literature review on this topic using search engines such as PubMed to search for the structural and functional organization of the temporal lobes, psychological functions assumed to be located in it, neuropsychological tests we use to assess those functions, mechanisms underlying epilepsy, existing therapies, and at the end psychological interventions that we as psychologists could use to support patients’ mental health besides doing diagnostics. My aim was to summarize the literature and integrate knowledge and information about the topic. Given the huge impact on quality of life, I also aimed to recommend some psychological interventions that could be helpful. Keywords: temporal lobes, temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), cognitive performance, memory, psychological interventions, quality of life