Several studies support a role for genetic factors associated with early onset, treatment-resistant epileptic encephalopathies such as mutations in SCN1A (Dravet syndrome),6 mutations in SCN8A,7 and Dup15q11 syndromes8 as well as treatment-resistant focal epilepsies such as DEPDC5. 9 It remains uncertain if these genes are associated with SUDEP solely due the risk of severe epilepsy or if other features are involved. The gene discussed is SCN1A; the disease is epilepsy.