| Sumario: | A study was conducted to investigate family physicians' referral patterns and perceptions of patients with epilepsy in a Brazilian city. Data were obtained from 71 physicians in the Family Health Program in the city of Niterói, Brazil. Findings indicated that the majority of the family doctors were inclined to disregard the possible adverse effects of epilepsy on emotional well-being, health status, rights, and functional potential of epilepsy patients in comparison to the general population. Findings revealed a general consensus that patients with epilepsy can attain a good quality of life but also demonstrated a belief among some physicians in the existence of an epileptic personality. Findings are discussed in detail.
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