INTRODUCTION: In the approach of patients with epilepsy, particularly those with clinically refractory seizures, aspects related to the family support of such patients are seldom contemplated. In this article we discuss fundamental concepts such as family and family support, as well as the importance of these concepts in the multidisciplinary treatment of persons with epilepsy. METHODS: The scales that are used for measuring of family support are discussed, with emphasis on the main aspects of each scale. CONCLUSION: Routine use of these scales would allow for an objective analysis of family functioning and support in patients with epilepsy, and thus should be object of future studies, which would enrich the understanding of the impact of epilepsy on families, and would also permit early interventions in dysfunctional families, leading to quality of life improvement.
Epilepsy; surgery; family; social support