Christian Bien, MD, Epilepsy Centre Bethel, Krankenhaus Mara, Bielefeld, Germany, explains that epilepsy experts have not reached a consensus on whether distinguishing between autoimmune epilepsy and encephalitis with seizures is important. Dr Bien explains, however, that this distinction could be necessary for those patients with acute symptomatic seizures, who can be cured with corticosteroid treatment. If their condition is regarded as equal to chronic, incurable epilepsy, these patients could otherwise be significantly restricted socially and in their ability to drive or carry out a profession. This interview took place during the 34th International Epilepsy Congress, 2021.