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Strzelczyk A, Cenusa M, Bauer S, Hamer HM, Mothersill IW, Grunwald T, Hillenbrand B, Ebner A, Steinhoff BJ, Krämer G, Rosenow F. Management and long-term outcome in patients presenting with ictal asystole or bradycardia. Epilepsia 2011; 52:1160-7. [PMID: 21320110 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2010.02961.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ictal asystole (IA) and ictal bradycardia (IB) are rare autonomic symptoms during epileptic seizures and may be potentially life-threatening. Guidelines for the care of these patients are missing. The aim of this multicenter study was to evaluate the management and long-term outcome in patients with IA and IB. PATIENTS AND METHODS All patients with IA and IB were included from four epilepsy centers (Bielefeld, Kork, Marburg, and Zürich) from 2002 until 2009. Using a standardized assessment form, clinical data, treatment decisions, and outcomes were extracted from patient charts and simultaneous electroencephalography/electrocardiography (EEG/ECG) recordings. KEY FINDINGS Seizures with IA or IB were identified in 16 patients. In all patients an associated temporal seizure pattern was recorded and in 15 patients, sudden falls, fainting, or trauma was previously reported or recorded during the monitoring. In three patients (18.8%) diagnosis of focal epilepsy was newly established and anticonvulsive treatment was initiated. Two patients with refractory epilepsy underwent epilepsy surgery. In seven patients (43.8%) a cardiac pacemaker was implanted. In 14 of 16 treated patients, seizure freedom (n = 5) or absence of sudden falls, fainting, or trauma (n = 9) could be achieved. Two patients denied epilepsy surgery as well as a pacemaker and continue to have frequent falls and trauma. SIGNIFICANCE Our study demonstrates that epilepsy surgery and antiepileptic drugs may lead to sustained freedom of seizures as well as ictal syncope. In drug-resistant patients not suitable for epilepsy surgery, implantation of a cardiac pacemaker may prevent sudden falls as well as trauma. Based on our results and previously reported cases we propose a treatment algorithm.
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Wille C, Steinhoff BJ, Altenmüller DM, Staack AM, Bilic S, Nikkhah G, Vesper J. Chronic high-frequency deep-brain stimulation in progressive myoclonic epilepsy in adulthood--report of five cases. Epilepsia 2011; 52:489-96. [PMID: 21219312 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2010.02884.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the efficacy and tolerability of chronic high-frequency deep brain stimulation (DBS) in adult patients with progressive myoclonic epilepsy (PME) syndromes. METHODS Five adult patients (four male, 28-39 years) with PME underwent chronic high-frequency DBS according to a study protocol that had been approved by the local ethics committee. Electrodes were implanted in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr)/subthalamic nucleus (STN) region in the first patient and additionally in the ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) bilaterally in the following four cases. Follow-up took place in intervals of 3 months and DBS effects were compared with baseline frequency of passive and activation-induced myoclonic jerks and daily life performance 8 weeks prior to implantation. KEY FINDINGS Follow-up periods ranged from 12-42 months (median 24 months). The best clinical effects were seen with SNr/STN DBS in all patients. VIM stimulation failed to achieve acute therapeutic effects and revealed low side-effect thresholds and even triggering of myoclonia. In all patients the reduction of myoclonic seizures was observed and ranged between 30% and 100% as quantified by a standardized video protocol. All patients reported clinically relevant improvements of various capabilities such as free standing and walking or improved fine motor skills. In one patient with an excellent initial response generalized tonic-clonic seizures increased after 3 months of stimulation following extensive trauma-related surgery. The best effect was seen in the least impaired patient. SIGNIFICANCE DBS of the SNr/STN may be an effective treatment option for patients with PME. Less impaired patients may benefit more markedly.
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Taschner CA, Staszewski O, van Velthoven V, Steinhoff BJ, Mader I, Prinz M. Freiburg neuropathology case conference: a medial temporal lobe lesion. Clin Neuroradiol 2010; 20:179-82. [PMID: 20809101 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-010-0027-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Steinhoff BJ, Hartmann R, Luy M, Rombach A, Ziegler G, Schulte-Mönting J, Gilliam FG. General surgery among long-term residents with and without active epilepsy at the Kork Epilepsy Centre - a prospective comparative one-year survey. Eur Neurol 2010; 64:156-62. [PMID: 20689300 DOI: 10.1159/000318171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2010] [Accepted: 06/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS We prospectively assessed the frequency, type, severity and cause of treatment among the long-term residents of the Kork Epilepsy Centre in the year 2005. METHODS All long-term residents were exclusively referred to the general surgeon practicing on the campus. Patients were divided into 2 groups comprising 285 patients with active epilepsy and 53 controls who either never had epileptic seizures or have remained seizure free for at least 4 years. RESULTS The 1-year incidence of injuries was 54.2% among the active epilepsy group and 36.8% among controls (p = 0.0275). Several admissions due to differing reasons occurred in 16.8% of people with active epilepsy and in 7.5% of the controls (not significant). More than 2 admissions due to various reasons only occurred in patients with active epilepsy (range 3-9). Of all injuries, 41.3% were directly related to seizures. Among patients with active epilepsy, the 3 most frequent injuries were lacerations, bruises and fractures (29.6, 17.0 and 11.7%, respectively). CONCLUSION According to this prospective study, active epilepsy turned out to be a significant risk factor for injuries under homogenous patient and observer conditions.
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Kasperaviciūte D, Catarino CB, Heinzen EL, Depondt C, Cavalleri GL, Caboclo LO, Tate SK, Jamnadas-Khoda J, Chinthapalli K, Clayton LMS, Shianna KV, Radtke RA, Mikati MA, Gallentine WB, Husain AM, Alhusaini S, Leppert D, Middleton LT, Gibson RA, Johnson MR, Matthews PM, Hosford D, Heuser K, Amos L, Ortega M, Zumsteg D, Wieser HG, Steinhoff BJ, Krämer G, Hansen J, Dorn T, Kantanen AM, Gjerstad L, Peuralinna T, Hernandez DG, Eriksson KJ, Kälviäinen RK, Doherty CP, Wood NW, Pandolfo M, Duncan JS, Sander JW, Delanty N, Goldstein DB, Sisodiya SM. Common genetic variation and susceptibility to partial epilepsies: a genome-wide association study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 133:2136-47. [PMID: 20522523 PMCID: PMC2892941 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awq130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Partial epilepsies have a substantial heritability. However, the actual genetic causes are largely unknown. In contrast to many other common diseases for which genetic association-studies have successfully revealed common variants associated with disease risk, the role of common variation in partial epilepsies has not yet been explored in a well-powered study. We undertook a genome-wide association-study to identify common variants which influence risk for epilepsy shared amongst partial epilepsy syndromes, in 3445 patients and 6935 controls of European ancestry. We did not identify any genome-wide significant association. A few single nucleotide polymorphisms may warrant further investigation. We exclude common genetic variants with effect sizes above a modest 1.3 odds ratio for a single variant as contributors to genetic susceptibility shared across the partial epilepsies. We show that, at best, common genetic variation can only have a modest role in predisposition to the partial epilepsies when considered across syndromes in Europeans. The genetic architecture of the partial epilepsies is likely to be very complex, reflecting genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity. Larger meta-analyses are required to identify variants of smaller effect sizes (odds ratio <1.3) or syndrome-specific variants. Further, our results suggest research efforts should also be directed towards identifying the multiple rare variants likely to account for at least part of the heritability of the partial epilepsies. Data emerging from genome-wide association-studies will be valuable during the next serious challenge of interpreting all the genetic variation emerging from whole-genome sequencing studies.
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Abstract
So far little is known about the long-term outcome of difficult-to-treat epilepsy syndromes of childhood. The aim of this study was to evaluate precise long-term data concerning the course of such epilepsies after 20 years. By means of a questionnaire we assessed the current situation of patients who had been treated as in-patients at the Department of Children and Adolescents at our Centre due to their difficult-to-treat epilepsy. Of 287 patients who met the inclusion criteria (diagnosis of difficult-to-treat epilepsy according to the final hospital record and hospitalisation for a therapy-resistant epilepsy), 176 were traced successfully and 81 completed and returned the questionnaire. A significant improvement of seizure frequency was reported by 49.7% and complete remission (with or without AEDs) by 25.9% of the patients. Social integration and work was attained by 21%. Cognitive impairment and treatment with more than 3 antiepileptic drugs proved to be significant negative outcome predictors. Among the patient population addressed in this study a high percentage had neurological impairments and/or cognitive deficiencies. Still, with 25.9% an unexpectedly high proportion of patients reached complete clinical remission after 20 years. Our data indicate that the natural course of difficult-to-treat epilepsies of childhood may be better than previously suggested.
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Heinzen EL, Radtke RA, Urban TJ, Cavalleri GL, Depondt C, Need AC, Walley NM, Nicoletti P, Ge D, Catarino CB, Duncan JS, Kasperavičiūte˙ D, Tate SK, Caboclo LO, Sander JW, Clayton L, Linney KN, Shianna KV, Gumbs CE, Smith J, Cronin KD, Maia JM, Doherty CP, Pandolfo M, Leppert D, Middleton LT, Gibson RA, Johnson MR, Matthews PM, Hosford D, Kälviäinen R, Eriksson K, Kantanen AM, Dorn T, Hansen J, Krämer G, Steinhoff BJ, Wieser HG, Zumsteg D, Ortega M, Wood NW, Huxley-Jones J, Mikati M, Gallentine WB, Husain AM, Buckley PG, Stallings RL, Podgoreanu MV, Delanty N, Sisodiya SM, Goldstein DB. Rare deletions at 16p13.11 predispose to a diverse spectrum of sporadic epilepsy syndromes. Am J Hum Genet 2010; 86:707-18. [PMID: 20398883 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2010.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2010] [Revised: 03/15/2010] [Accepted: 03/19/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Deletions at 16p13.11 are associated with schizophrenia, mental retardation, and most recently idiopathic generalized epilepsy. To evaluate the role of 16p13.11 deletions, as well as other structural variation, in epilepsy disorders, we used genome-wide screens to identify copy number variation in 3812 patients with a diverse spectrum of epilepsy syndromes and in 1299 neurologically-normal controls. Large deletions (> 100 kb) at 16p13.11 were observed in 23 patients, whereas no control had a deletion greater than 16 kb. Patients, even those with identically sized 16p13.11 deletions, presented with highly variable epilepsy phenotypes. For a subset of patients with a 16p13.11 deletion, we show a consistent reduction of expression for included genes, suggesting that haploinsufficiency might contribute to pathogenicity. We also investigated another possible mechanism of pathogenicity by using hybridization-based capture and next-generation sequencing of the homologous chromosome for ten 16p13.11-deletion patients to look for unmasked recessive mutations. Follow-up genotyping of suggestive polymorphisms failed to identify any convincing recessive-acting mutations in the homologous interval corresponding to the deletion. The observation that two of the 16p13.11 deletions were larger than 2 Mb in size led us to screen for other large deletions. We found 12 additional genomic regions harboring deletions > 2 Mb in epilepsy patients, and none in controls. Additional evaluation is needed to characterize the role of these exceedingly large, non-locus-specific deletions in epilepsy. Collectively, these data implicate 16p13.11 and possibly other large deletions as risk factors for a wide range of epilepsy disorders, and they appear to point toward haploinsufficiency as a contributor to the pathogenicity of deletions.
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Steinhoff BJ, Wendling AS. Short-term impact of the switch from immediate-release to extended-release oxcarbazepine in epilepsy patients on high dosages. Epilepsy Res 2009; 87:256-9. [PMID: 19850448 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2009.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2009] [Revised: 09/04/2009] [Accepted: 09/20/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Extended-release oxcarbazepine (OXC) was introduced in Germany in January of 2008. In principle, this formulation should allow a better tolerability due to the less marked serum peak concentration of OXC prior to metabolization to its monohydroxy derivate (MHD) that is the active compound. Twenty-seven in-patients who had been referred to our epilepsy centre because of their difficult-to-treat localization-related epilepsies and had been on immediate-release OXC were abruptly switched to extended-release OXC at identical dosages. The adverse event profile (AEP) and the QOLIE-10 questionnaire were obtained immediately prior to and 5 days after this switch. On both days MHD fasting serum concentrations were also measured. After the switch a significant improvement of tolerability and quality of life was reported according to AEP and QOLIE-10 (p<0.001). Ameliorations were apparent in almost every patient (AEP: 26 of 27 patients, QOLIE-10: 23 of 27 patients). The improvement not explained by a drop of MHD levels. On the contrary and in line with preclinical data, serum levels of MHD rose significantly (p<0.001). We suggest that patients on extended-release OXC experience a lower serum concentration peak of the pro-drug OXC.
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Kurth C, Schäuble B, Schreiner A, Rettig K, Steinhoff BJ. Exploring efficacy and tolerability outcomes in patients with difficult-to-treat epilepsy receiving adjunctive topiramate at different titration rates--an exploratory study. Acta Neurol Scand 2009; 120:80-7. [PMID: 19432934 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2009.01156.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare rapid vs regular titration of topiramate concerning efficacy and safety. MATERIALS AND METHODS Open-label, prospective, single-center study exploring efficacy and tolerability of two adjunctive dosing regimens of topiramate (TPM) in adult patients with difficult-to-treat epilepsy. Based on investigator judgment, 21 of 50 consecutive patients received a rapid titration (starting dose 50 mg/day, stepwise increase with 50 mg/day after 3 days each until reaching the target dose), while the other 29 patients received titration according to the German prescribing information (starting dose 25 mg/day, stepwise increase with 25-50 mg/day every 7 days). Patients were observed until the target dose was reached and 3 months thereafter. RESULTS Mean final dosages were 136 mg/day (regular titration) and 213 mg/day (rapid titration). Efficacy and tolerability measures did not differ significantly. Forty-six percent of all patients experienced a seizure reduction of > or = 50%; 14% became seizure free. No serious adverse events occurred. The most common adverse effects were tiredness (20%), memory and language difficulties (18% each), slowness in thinking and speech (10%), psychomotor disturbance (8%) and paresthesia (8%). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that rapid and conventional titration generate similar tolerability, safety and effectiveness in selected patients.
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Steinhoff BJ, Runge U, Witte OW, Stefan H, Hufnagel A, Mayer T, Krämer G. Substitution of anticonvulsant drugs. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2009; 5:449-57. [PMID: 19707254 PMCID: PMC2701486 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s5366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Changing from branded drugs to generic alternatives, or between different generic formulations, is common practice aiming at reducing health care costs. It has been suggested that antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) should be exempt from substitution because of the potential negative consequences of adverse events and breakthrough seizures. Controlled data are lacking on the risk of substitution. However, retrospective data from large medical claims databases suggest that switching might be associated with increased use of AED and non-AED medications, and health care resources (including hospitalization). In addition, some anecdotal evidence from patients and health care providers' surveys suggest a potentially negative impact of substitution. Well-controlled data are needed to assess the real risk associated with substitution, allowing health care professionals involved in the care of patients with epilepsy to make informed decisions. This paper reviews currently available literature, based on which the authors suggest that the decision to substitute should be made on an individual basis by the physician and an informed patient. Unendorsed or undisclosed substitution at the pharmacy level should be discouraged.
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Steinhoff BJ. Verzögert freigesetztes Oxcarbazepin – Überblick und klinische Erfahrungen. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-009-0017-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Schulze-Bonhage A, Trippel M, Wagner K, Bast T, Deimling FV, Ebner A, Elger C, Mayer T, Keimer R, Steinhoff BJ, Spreer J, Fauser S, Ostertag C. Outcome and predictors of interstitial radiosurgery in the treatment of gelastic epilepsy. Neurology 2008; 71:277-82. [PMID: 18645166 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000318279.92233.82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gelastic epilepsy due to hypothalamic hamartomas is usually a severe condition encompassing both epileptic seizures and an epileptic encephalopathy associated with behavioral and cognitive impairments. Here we report the effects of interstitial radiosurgery in the treatment of this generally pharmacoresistant epilepsy syndrome. METHODS Twenty-four consecutive patients (3-46 years of age, 7 women, mean age 21.9 years, mean duration of epilepsy 17.6 years) with gelastic epilepsy due to MR-ascertained hypothalamic hamartoma and a minimum follow-up period of 1 year were included in this evaluation. Treatment was performed by interstitial radiosurgery using stereotactically implanted (125)I seeds. Effects of treatment on seizure frequency and possible side effects were assessed prospectively. Factors influencing outcome and side effects were analyzed statistically. RESULTS After a mean 24-month follow-up period following the last radiosurgical treatment, 11/24 patients were seizure free or had seizure reduction of at least 90% (Engel class I and II), in some cases only after repeated treatment. The duration of epilepsy prior to radiosurgery negatively influenced outcome. Treatment was well tolerated in most patients. Headache, fatigue, and lethargy were transient side effects associated with the development of brain edema extending from the implantation site in five patients. Four patients had a weight gain of more than 5 kg which was severe in two patients. The majority of those patients whose cognitive functions initially deteriorated showed subsequent recovery of cognitive functions, but episodic memory in two patients showed persistent decline at 1 year follow-up. Longer disease duration increased the risk for cognitive side effects, and larger hamartoma size and eccentric seed positioning increased the risk for radiogenic brain edema. Neither perioperative mortality nor neurologic impairments, visual field defects, or endocrinologic disturbances were encountered following treatment. CONCLUSION Interstitial radiosurgery was efficacious in significantly improving gelastic epilepsy in about half of the patients treated in this series. Weight gain may occur as a side effect, whereas other severe side effects reported following microsurgical removal of the hamartoma were absent. The study results strongly suggest early causal treatment, as chances for seizure control are higher and the risk for cognitive side effects is lower in patients with shorter disease duration.
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Abstract
The majority of epileptic disorders are not self-limiting over time, and therefore require a long-lasting and often even lifelong antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment, in Wi/omen with epilepsy, the influence of their disease on the possibility and course of pregnancies, as well as the potential impact of the AED treatment on mother and child, are crucial questions. This review addresses the clinically relevant knovledge concerning the impact of the disease itself and the AED treatment on fertility, pregnancy, delivery, the postpartum period, and teratogenicity. Some of the new AEDs appear to have a favorable profile due to a lack of clinically relevant interactions and promising teratogenic profiles. However, the finding of decreases in lamotrigine serum concentrations during hormonal contraception and pregnancy is an instructive example, shovt/ing that ongoing studies are urgently needed to further investigate stillunanswered questions. Several prospective multinational surveys are currently being performed, and should add essential information in this context.
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Steinhoff BJ. Pregnancy, epilepsy, and anticonvulsants. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2008; 10:63-75. [PMID: 18472485 PMCID: PMC3181857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
The majority of epileptic disorders are not self-limiting over time, and therefore require a long-lasting and often even lifelong antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment. In women with epilepsy the influence of their disease on the possibility and course of pregnancies, as well as the potential impact of the AED treatment on mother and child, are crucial questions. This review addresses the clinically relevant knowledge concerning the impact of the disease itself and the AED treatment on fertility pregnancy, delivery, the postpartum period, and teratogenicity. Some of the new AEDs appear to have a favorable profile due to a lack of clinically relevant interactions and promising teratogenic profiles. However, the finding of decreases in lamotrigine serum concentrations during hormonal contraception and pregnancy is an instructive example, showing that ongoing studies are urgently needed to further investigate still-unanswered questions. Several prospective multinational surveys are currently being performed, and should add essential information
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Fauser S, Bast T, Altenmüller DM, Schulte-Mönting J, Strobl K, Steinhoff BJ, Zentner J, Schulze-Bonhage A. Factors influencing surgical outcome in patients with focal cortical dysplasia. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2008; 79:103-5. [PMID: 17682011 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.2007.116038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
A total of 120 patients with histologically proven focal cortical dysplasias (FCD) were retrospectively analysed for prognostic factors for successful epilepsy surgery. Multivariate data analyses showed that older age at epilepsy surgery, occurrence of secondarily generalised seizures and a multilobar extent of the dysplasia were significant negative predictors. In univariate analyses, longer duration of epilepsy, need for intracranial EEG recordings and incomplete resection of the FCD were factors which significantly reduced the chance of becoming seizure free. Histological subtype of the FCD and age at epilepsy onset had no significant predictive value. These findings strongly suggest early consideration of epilepsy surgery in FCD patients.
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Abstract
Epilepsies are amongst the most frequent chronic neurological conditions. Patients suffer from spontaneously recurring seizures because of sudden extensive electrical gray matter discharges. Although the current drug therapy allows many patients at least some degree of a satisfying course of the disease, a substantial number of patients remain without adequate seizure control. Reasons are either refractoriness to anticonvulsant drugs or intolerable drug-related side effects. Epilepsy surgery should be considered in these cases as possible treatment option. Nevertheless, a considerable rate of patients will not be suitable candidates or continue to have seizures despite surgery. Therefore there is a substantial need for better antiepileptic drugs. The aim of this review is to highlight currently emerging different treatment approaches which may ameliorate the perspectives of patients with difficult-to-treat epilepsies.
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Kasteleijn-Nolst Trenité DGA, Genton P, Parain D, Masnou P, Steinhoff BJ, Jacobs T, Pigeolet E, Stockis A, Hirsch E. Evaluation of brivaracetam, a novel SV2A ligand, in the photosensitivity model. Neurology 2007; 69:1027-34. [PMID: 17785672 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000271385.85302.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the activity of brivaracetam, a novel SV2A ligand, in the photosensitivity model as a proof-of-principle of efficacy in patients with epilepsy. METHODS A subject-blind placebo-controlled study in patients with photosensitive epilepsy was performed to investigate the effect of single-dose brivaracetam (10, 20, 40, or 80 mg) on photosensitive responses. Each patient was exposed to intermittent photic stimulation that evoked a generalized photoparoxysmal EEG response. Individual standard photosensitivity ranges (SPRs) were recorded post-placebo (day -1) and post-brivaracetam until return to baseline (day 1 to 3). Plasma concentrations of brivaracetam and any concomitant antiepileptic drugs were determined. RESULTS Of the 18 evaluable patients, none achieved SPR abolishment post-placebo, whereas 14 (78%) achieved complete abolishment post-brivaracetam. Decrease in SPR was seen in 8 patients (44%) post-placebo compared to 17 (94%) post-brivaracetam. Duration of response was twice as long post-brivaracetam 80 mg (59.5 hours) compared with lower doses, although the overall effect was not dose-dependent. Time to maximal photosensitive response was dose-related with the shortest time interval observed at the highest dose (0.5 hours post-brivaracetam 80 mg). The area under the effect curve (SPR change from pre-dose vs time) appeared linearly correlated with the area under the plasma concentration curve. Brivaracetam was well tolerated. The most common adverse events were dizziness and somnolence. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that brivaracetam clearly suppresses generalized photoparoxysmal EEG response. As such, investigations of the antiepileptic properties and tolerability of brivaracetam are warranted in further clinical studies of patients with epilepsy.
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Steinhoff BJ, Somerville ER, Van Paesschen W, Ryvlin P, Schelstraete I. The SKATE™ study: An open-label community-based study of levetiracetam as add-on therapy for adults with uncontrolled partial epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2007; 76:6-14. [PMID: 17681453 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2007.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2007] [Revised: 05/25/2007] [Accepted: 06/02/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The Safety of Keppra as Adjunctive Therapy in Epilepsy (SKATE) study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of levetiracetam (Keppra, LEV) as add-on therapy for refractory partial seizures in clinical practice. This Phase IV, 16-week, open-label study recruited patients > or =16-year old with treatment-resistant partial seizures. LEV (1000 mg/day) was added to a stable concomitant antiepileptic drug regimen. LEV dosage was adjusted based on seizure control and tolerability to a maximum of 3000 mg/day. 1541 patients (intent-to-treat population) were recruited including 1346 (87.3%) who completed the study and 77.0% who declared further continuing on LEV after the trial. Overall, 50.5% of patients reported at least one adverse event that was considered related to LEV treatment. The most frequently reported drug-related adverse events were mild-to-moderate somnolence, fatigue, dizziness and headache. Serious adverse events considered related to LEV occurred in 1.0% of patients. 7.5% of patients reported adverse events as the most important reason for study drug discontinuation. The median reduction from baseline in the frequency of all seizures was 50.2%; 15.8% of patients were seizure free; 50.1% had seizure frequency reduction of > or =50%. At the end of the study, 60.4% of patients were considered by the investigator to show marked or moderate improvement. There was a significant improvement in health-related quality of life as assessed with the QOLIE-10-P (total score increasing from 55.6 to 61.6; p<0.001). This community-based study suggests that LEV is well tolerated and effective as add-on therapy for refractory partial seizures in adults. These data provide supportive evidence for the safety and efficacy of LEV demonstrated in the pivotal Phase III placebo-controlled studies.
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Staack AM, Jürges U, Kurth C, Winkler C, Steinhoff BJ. Unterschiedlicher Effekt von Monotherapien mit Carbamazepin, Oxcarbazepin und Lamotrigin auf klinisch relevante Laborparameter. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-007-0260-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Mursch K, Halatsch ME, Steinhoff BJ, Behnke-Mursch J. Lumbar subdural haematoma after temporomesial resection in epilepsy patients-report of two cases and review of the literature. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2007; 109:442-5. [PMID: 17349739 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2007.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2006] [Revised: 01/30/2007] [Accepted: 02/02/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We present two cases of lumbar subdural haematoma, both occurring after an uneventful temporomesial focus resection in patients suffering from medically intractable epilepsy. Initial symptom was back pain and sciatica 4 days and 13 days postoperatively, but no neurological deficits were observed. The diagnosis was confirmed by MRI. No risk factor could be identified. The pain responded well to conservative treatment and the haematomas resolved without neurological sequelae. A review of the literature reveals that the characteristics of spinal subdural haematoma following craniotomy are very similar. Six out of 12 reported cases occurred in temporal epilepsy surgery. All had a benign course and did not require an operative procedure. Back pain after epilepsy surgery may be caused by an intraspinal haematoma and should be investigated by MRI.
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Heinemann U, Krasnianski A, Meissner B, Varges D, Kallenberg K, Schulz-Schaeffer WJ, Steinhoff BJ, Grasbon-Frodl EM, Kretzschmar HA, Zerr I. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in Germany: a prospective 12-year surveillance. Brain 2007; 130:1350-9. [PMID: 17472986 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awm063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder with a worldwide incidence of 1-1.5 per million. As in other countries, a CJD surveillance unit with a clinical and neuropathological approach was established in Goettingen (Germany) in 1993. Here we report the epidemiological data from a prospective 12-year surveillance. Since 1993, there has been an increasing incidence of CJD, from 0.7 in 1993 to 1.6 in 2005 with a quite stable level since 1998. During this period, the proportion of patients with MV and VV codon 129 genotype rose, possibly because of better identification of atypical subtypes. Six percent of all patients had a PRNP mutation, mainly D178N-129M (FFI), E200K and V210I. Iatrogenic CJD was a rare phenomenon. No patient infected by cadaveric growth hormone extracts was reported. Furthermore, no variant CJD patient has yet been identified in Germany. Differential diagnoses revealed a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, with Alzheimer's disease in the lead. One-third of the non-CJD patients included in this study suffered from a potentially treatable disorder such as metabolic or inflammatory diseases. The incidence and mortality rates in Germany are similar to those in other European countries. In contrast, however, acquired forms, such as iatrogenic and variant CJD are still rare in Germany or have not yet been identified.
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Krämer G, Steinhoff BJ, Feucht M, Pfäfflin M, May TW. Experience with generic drugs in epilepsy patients: an electronic survey of members of the German, Austrian and Swiss branches of the ILAE. Epilepsia 2007; 48:609-11. [PMID: 17346253 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2007.01084_1.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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123
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Gomer B, Wagner K, Frings L, Saar J, Carius A, Härle M, Steinhoff BJ, Schulze-Bonhage A. The influence of antiepileptic drugs on cognition: a comparison of levetiracetam with topiramate. Epilepsy Behav 2007; 10:486-94. [PMID: 17409025 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2007.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2006] [Revised: 01/08/2007] [Accepted: 02/14/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Levetiracetam (LEV) and topiramate (TPM) are considered highly effective novel antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in the treatment of focal epilepsies. To explore potential side effects, this study investigated their influence on cognitive functions comparatively by means of a standardized neuropsychological test battery assessing several cognitive domains. In this observational study, cognitive changes were explored in 30 consecutively recruited patients with focal epilepsy treated with LEV and in 21 patients treated with TPM, comparing functions assessed prior to gradual initiation and after reaching steady state of the individual target dosage. Before titration, patient groups did not differ significantly with respect to cognitive performance. Whereas the LEV group manifested no change in cognitive performance after AED titration, the TPM group worsened in the cognitive domains of cognitive speed and verbal fluency, as well as short-term memory. These findings suggest that TPM, unlike LEV, may impair frontal lobe functions. The lack of cognitive side effects related to LEV treatment may be relevant for treatment decisions.
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Steinhoff BJ. Unterschiede in den biopharmazeutischen Eigenschaften von Oxcarbazepinpräparaten können die Verträglichkeit insbesondere bei höheren Tagesdosen relevant beeinflussen. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-007-0251-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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125
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Quiske A, Unterrainer J, Wagner K, Frings L, Breyer T, Halsband U, Ostertag C, Elger CE, Ebner A, Tuxhorn I, Ernst JP, Steinhoff BJ, Mayer T, Schulze-Bonhage A. Assessment of cognitive functions before and after stereotactic interstitial radiosurgery of hypothalamic hamartomas in patients with gelastic seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2007; 10:328-32. [PMID: 17314075 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2006.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2006] [Revised: 12/19/2006] [Accepted: 12/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We assessed cognitive functions before and 3 months after interstitial radiotherapy in 14 patients with gelastic seizures caused by hypothalamic hamartoma. Cognitive functioning was assessed before temporary implantation of (125)I-seed and 3 months after seed explantation. Performance was compared with that of a selected control group of conservatively treated patients with symptomatic focal epilepsy tested before add-on treatment with a new antiepileptic drug and after reaching steady state. No short-term negative side effects of the interstitial radiosurgery could be observed for the domains of attention and executive functions and verbal and figural memory performance. Cognitive development of the patients treated with seeds was comparable to that of the control group at both assessments. Thus, the stereotactic implantation of (125)I-seeds in this patient group with gelastic seizures caused by hypothalamic hamartoma provides a well-tolerated minimally invasive method in the treatment of this severe epileptic syndrome without negative cognitive side effects.
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