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Simmons R, Martinez AB, Barkovich J, Numis AL, Cilio MR, Glenn OA, Gano D, Rogers EE, Glass HC. Disorders of Neuronal Migration/Organization Convey the Highest Risk of Neonatal Onset Epilepsy Compared With Other Congenital Brain Malformations. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 127:20-27. [PMID: 34933271 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although seizures in neonates are common and often due to acute brain injury, 10-15% are unprovoked from congenital brain malformations. A better understanding of the risk of neonatal-onset epilepsy by the type of brain malformation is essential for counseling and monitoring. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we evaluated 132 neonates with congenital brain malformations and their risk of neonatal-onset epilepsy. Malformations were classified into one of five categories based on imaging patterns on prenatal or postnatal imaging. Infants were monitored with continuous video EEG (cEEG) for encephalopathy and paroxysmal events in addition to abnormal neuroimaging. RESULTS Seventy-four of 132 (56%) neonates underwent EEG monitoring, and 18 of 132 (14%) were diagnosed with neonatal-onset epilepsy. The highest prevalence of epilepsy was in neonates with disorders of neuronal migration/organization (9/34, 26%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 13-44%), followed by disorders of early prosencephalic development (6/38, 16%; 95% CI = 6-31%), complex total brain malformations (2/16, 13%; 95% CI = 2-38%), and disorders of midbrain/hindbrain malformations (1/30, 3%; 95% CI = 0-17%). Of neonates with epilepsy, 5 of 18 (28%) had only electrographic seizures, 13 of 18 (72%) required treatment with two or more antiseizure medicines (ASMs), and 7 of 18 (39%) died within the neonatal period. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that disorders of neuronal migration/organization represent the highest-risk group for early-onset epilepsy. Seizures are frequently electrographic only, require treatment with multiple ASMs, and portend a high mortality rate. These results support American Clinical Neurophysiology Society recommendations for EEG monitoring during the neonatal period for infants with congenital brain malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne Simmons
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | | | - James Barkovich
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Engineering, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Adam L Numis
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Maria Roberta Cilio
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Orit A Glenn
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Engineering, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Dawn Gano
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Elizabeth E Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Hannah C Glass
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
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Zou D, Wang L, Liao J, Xiao H, Duan J, Zhang T, Li J, Yin Z, Zhou J, Yan H, Huang Y, Zhan N, Yang Y, Ye J, Chen F, Zhu S, Wen F, Guo J. Genome sequencing of 320 Chinese children with epilepsy: a clinical and molecular study. Brain 2021; 144:3623-3634. [PMID: 34145886 PMCID: PMC8719847 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of genome sequencing in children with epilepsy, and to provide genome sequencing-based insights into the molecular genetic mechanisms of epilepsy to help establish accurate diagnoses, design appropriate treatments and assist in genetic counselling. We performed genome sequencing on 320 Chinese children with epilepsy, and interpreted single-nucleotide variants and copy number variants of all samples. The complete pedigree and clinical data of the probands were established and followed up. The clinical phenotypes, treatments, prognoses and genotypes of the patients were analysed. Age at seizure onset ranged from 1 day to 17 years, with a median of 4.3 years. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants were found in 117 of the 320 children (36.6%), of whom 93 (29.1%) had single-nucleotide variants, 22 (6.9%) had copy number variants and two had both single-nucleotide variants and copy number variants. Single-nucleotide variants were most frequently found in SCN1A (10/95, 10.5%), which is associated with Dravet syndrome, followed by PRRT2 (8/95, 8.4%), which is associated with benign familial infantile epilepsy, and TSC2 (7/95, 7.4%), which is associated with tuberous sclerosis. Among the copy number variants, there were three with a length <25 kilobases. The most common recurrent copy number variants were 17p13.3 deletions (5/24, 20.8%), 16p11.2 deletions (4/24, 16.7%), and 7q11.23 duplications (2/24, 8.3%), which are associated with epilepsy, developmental retardation and congenital abnormalities. Four particular 16p11.2 deletions and two 15q11.2 deletions were considered to be susceptibility factors contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders associated with epilepsy. The diagnostic yield was 75.0% in patients with seizure onset during the first postnatal month, and gradually decreased in patients with seizure onset at a later age. Forty-two patients (13.1%) were found to be specifically treatable for the underlying genetic cause identified by genome sequencing. Three of them received corresponding targeted therapies and demonstrated favourable prognoses. Genome sequencing provides complete genetic diagnosis, thus enabling individualized treatment and genetic counselling for the parents of the patients. Genome sequencing is expected to become the first choice of methods for genetic testing of patients with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongfang Zou
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lin Wang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Jianxiang Liao
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Jing Duan
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | | | | | | | - Jing Zhou
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | | | | | | | - Ying Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Jingyu Ye
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Fang Chen
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Shida Zhu
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Feiqiu Wen
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Correspondence may also be addressed to: Feiqiu Wen Shenzhen Children’s Hospital No. 7019 Yitian Road, Shenzhen 518038 Guangdong, China E-mail:
| | - Jian Guo
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
- Correspondence to: Jian Guo BGI-Shenzhen, Beishan Industry Zone Shenzhen 518083, Guangdong, China E-mail:
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Sheidley BR, Malinowski J, Bergner AL, Bier L, Gloss DS, Mu W, Mulhern MM, Partack EJ, Poduri A. Genetic testing for the epilepsies: A systematic review. Epilepsia 2021; 63:375-387. [PMID: 34893972 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Numerous genetic testing options for individuals with epilepsy have emerged over the past decade without clear guidelines regarding optimal testing strategies. We performed a systematic evidence review (SER) and conducted meta-analyses of the diagnostic yield of genetic tests commonly utilized for patients with epilepsy. We also assessed nonyield outcomes (NYOs) such as changes in treatment and/or management, prognostic information, recurrence risk determination, and genetic counseling. METHODS We performed an SER, in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central through December of 2020. We included studies that utilized genome sequencing (GS), exome sequencing (ES), multigene panel (MGP), and/or genome-wide comparative genomic hybridization/chromosomal microarray (CGH/CMA) in cohorts (n ≥ 10) ascertained for epilepsy. Quality assessment was undertaken using ROBINS-I (Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions). We estimated diagnostic yields and 95% confidence intervals with random effects meta-analyses and narratively synthesized NYOs. RESULTS From 5985 nonduplicated articles published through 2020, 154 met inclusion criteria and were included in meta-analyses of diagnostic yield; 43 of those were included in the NYO synthesis. The overall diagnostic yield across all test modalities was 17%, with the highest yield for GS (48%), followed by ES (24%), MGP (19%), and CGH/CMA (9%). The only phenotypic factors that were significantly associated with increased yield were (1) the presence of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy and/or (2) the presence of neurodevelopmental comorbidities. Studies reporting NYOs addressed clinical and personal utility of testing. SIGNIFICANCE This comprehensive SER, focused specifically on the literature regarding patients with epilepsy, provides a comparative assessment of the yield of clinically available tests, which will help shape clinician decision-making and policy regarding insurance coverage for genetic testing. We highlight the need for prospective assessment of the clinical and personal utility of genetic testing for patients with epilepsy and for standardization in reporting patient characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth R Sheidley
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Division of Epilepsy and Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Amanda L Bergner
- Department of Genetics and Development, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Louise Bier
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - David S Gloss
- Department of Neurology, Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, West Virginia, USA
| | - Weiyi Mu
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Maureen M Mulhern
- Department of Pathology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.,Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Emily J Partack
- Genomics Services, Quest Diagnostics, Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Annapurna Poduri
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Division of Epilepsy and Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Lemmon ME, Glass HC, Shellhaas RA, Barks MC, Bansal S, Annis D, Guerriero JL, Pilon B, Wusthoff CJ, Chang T, Soul JS, Chu CJ, Thomas C, Massey SL, Abend NS, Rau S, Rogers EE, Franck LS. Family-Centered Care for Children and Families Impacted by Neonatal Seizures: Advice From Parents. Pediatr Neurol 2021; 124:26-32. [PMID: 34509000 PMCID: PMC8523194 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2021.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of neonates with seizures are at risk of mental health symptoms due to the impact of illness on family life, prognostic uncertainty, and the emotional toll of hospitalization. A family-centered approach is the preferred model to mitigate these challenges. We aimed to identify strategies to promote family-centered care through an analysis of parent-offered advice to clinicians caring for neonates with seizures. METHODS This prospective, observational, and multicenter (Neonatal Seizure Registry) study enrolled parents of neonates with acute symptomatic seizures. Parents completed surveys about family well-being at 12, 18, and 24 months corrected gestational age. Parents were asked open-ended questions eliciting their advice to clinicians caring for neonates with seizures. Responses were analyzed using a conventional content analysis approach. RESULTS Among the 310 parents who completed surveys, 118 (38%) shared advice for clinicians. These parents were predominantly mothers (n = 103, 87%). Three overarching themes were identified. (1) Communicate information effectively: parents appreciate when clinicians offer transparent and balanced information in an accessible way. (2) Understand and validate parent experience: parents value clinicians who display empathy, compassion, and a commitment to parent-partnered clinical care. (3) Providesupportand resources: parents benefit from emotional support, education, connection with peers, and help navigating the health care system. CONCLUSIONS Parents caring for neonates with seizures appreciate a family-centered approach in health care encounters, including skilled communication, understanding and validation of the parent experience, and provision of support and resources. Future interventions should focus on building structures to reinforce these priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica E. Lemmon
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA,Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hannah C. Glass
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Renée A. Shellhaas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mary Carol Barks
- Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Simran Bansal
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dana Annis
- NSR Parent Partner, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Guerriero
- NSR Parent Partner, Children’s Hospital Boston, Boston, MA, USA,Dana Farber Cancer Institute
| | | | | | - Taeun Chang
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Hospital, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Janet S. Soul
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Catherine J. Chu
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cameron Thomas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA,Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Shavonne L. Massey
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nicholas S. Abend
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA,Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stephanie Rau
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Rogers
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Linda S. Franck
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Myers KA, Scheffer IE. Precision Medicine Approaches for Infantile-Onset Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 62:641-662. [PMID: 34579535 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-052120-084449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is an etiologically heterogeneous condition; however, genetic factors are thought to play a role in most patients. For those with infantile-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE), a genetic diagnosis is now obtained in more than 50% of patients. There is considerable motivation to utilize these molecular diagnostic data to help guide treatment, as children with DEEs often have drug-resistant seizures as well as developmental impairment related to cerebral epileptiform activity. Precision medicine approaches have the potential to dramatically improve the quality of life for these children and their families. At present, treatment can be targeted for patients with diagnoses in many genetic causes of infantile-onset DEE, including genes encoding sodium or potassium channel subunits, tuberous sclerosis, and congenital metabolic diseases. Precision medicine may refer to more intelligent choices of conventional antiseizure medications, repurposed agents previously used for other indications, novel compounds, enzyme replacement, or gene therapy approaches. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Volume 62 is January 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Myers
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Division of Child Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, and Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H4A 3J1, Canada;
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia; .,Department of Paediatrics, Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia.,The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
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Trollmann R. Neuromonitoring bei zerebralen Anfällen im Neugeborenenalter – Chancen und Herausforderungen. KLIN NEUROPHYSIOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1438-1828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Angesichts der vielen Kinder mit neonatalen Risikofaktoren für erworbene ZNS-Läsionen und zerebrale Anfälle ist das EEG zunehmend relevant für eine optimierte Diagnostik und Therapieüberwachung 1
2. Folgender Artikel gibt einen Überblick über Besonderheiten des neonatalen EEG und über aktuelle Empfehlungen zum Stellenwert des Langzeit-EEG-Monitorings bei neonatalen Anfällen und epileptischen Enzephalopathien im Früh- und Neugeborenalter.
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Genetic-cellular epilepsy: Clues to diagnosing newborns with neonatal seizures. Seizure 2021; 92:68-75. [PMID: 34474328 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to analyse clinical characteristics of newborns with genetic-cellular epilepsy (GCE) to compare them to those of newborns with seizures with other aetiologies and elucidate clues to the diagnosis of GCE. METHODS This retrospective single-centre study analysed data from an 8-year cohort of newborns with seizures from 2010-2017. Clinical, neurophysiological, laboratory, and imaging data and outcomes of children with GCE were compared to those of newborns with seizures with other aetiologies. RESULTS A total of 112 newborns (N = 68; 61% boys) were included. Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (N = 42; 29%) was the most common seizure aetiology; GCE (with pathogenic variants KCNQ2, KCNQ3, SCN2A, TBC1D24, CHD2, and STXBP) was diagnosed in 9 (6%). The group of newborns with GCE significantly differed from the group with seizures with other aetiologies in terms of family history of epilepsy (p = 0.000), neonatal epileptic status (NES) (p = 0.007), normal imaging studies (p = 0.000), and outcomes (p = 0.034), but did not differ regarding the type and age of seizure onset, number of antiepileptic drugs administered, and EEG results. Positive family history of epilepsy (p = 0.027), presence of NES (p = 0.041), and normal imaging studies (p = 0.002) were most indicative of the diagnosis of GCE. Probability of GCE with this combination was 0.92. CONCLUSION In a heterogenous group of newborns with seizures, a positive family history of epilepsy, presence of NES, and normal imaging studies were most indicative of the diagnosis of GCE.
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Spinelli E, Christensen KR, Bryant E, Schneider A, Rakotomamonjy J, Muir AM, Giannelli J, Littlejohn RO, Roeder ER, Schmidt B, Wilson WG, Marco EJ, Iwama K, Kumada S, Pisano T, Barba C, Vetro A, Brilstra EH, van Jaarsveld RH, Matsumoto N, Goldberg-Stern H, Carney P, Ian Andrews P, El Achkar CM, Berkovic S, Rodan LH, McWalter K, Guerrini R, Scheffer IE, Mefford HC, Mandelstam S, Laux L, Millichap JJ, Guemez-Gamboa A, Nairn AC, Carvill GL. Pathogenic MAST3 Variants in the STK Domain Are Associated with Epilepsy. Ann Neurol 2021; 90:274-284. [PMID: 34185323 PMCID: PMC8324566 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The MAST family of microtubule-associated serine-threonine kinases (STKs) have distinct expression patterns in the developing and mature human and mouse brain. To date, only MAST1 has been conclusively associated with neurological disease, with de novo variants in individuals with a neurodevelopmental disorder, including a mega corpus callosum. METHODS Using exome sequencing, we identify MAST3 missense variants in individuals with epilepsy. We also assess the effect of these variants on the ability of MAST3 to phosphorylate the target gene product ARPP-16 in HEK293T cells. RESULTS We identify de novo missense variants in the STK domain in 11 individuals, including 2 recurrent variants p.G510S (n = 5) and p.G515S (n = 3). All 11 individuals had developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, with 8 having normal development prior to seizure onset at <2 years of age. All patients developed multiple seizure types, 9 of 11 patients had seizures triggered by fever and 9 of 11 patients had drug-resistant seizures. In vitro analysis of HEK293T cells transfected with MAST3 cDNA carrying a subset of these patient-specific missense variants demonstrated variable but generally lower expression, with concomitant increased phosphorylation of the MAST3 target, ARPP-16, compared to wild-type. These findings suggest the patient-specific variants may confer MAST3 gain-of-function. Moreover, single-nuclei RNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry shows that MAST3 expression is restricted to excitatory neurons in the cortex late in prenatal development and postnatally. INTERPRETATION In summary, we describe MAST3 as a novel epilepsy-associated gene with a potential gain-of-function pathogenic mechanism that may be primarily restricted to excitatory neurons in the cortex. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:274-284.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egidio Spinelli
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kyle R Christensen
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Emily Bryant
- Epilepsy Center and Division of Neurology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Division of Genetics, Birth Defects and Metabolism, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Amy Schneider
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer Rakotomamonjy
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alison M Muir
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jessica Giannelli
- Epilepsy Center and Division of Neurology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Rebecca O Littlejohn
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Roeder
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Berkley Schmidt
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - William G Wilson
- Division of Medical Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Elysa J Marco
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Research Division, Cortica Healthcare, San Rafael, California, USA
| | - Kazuhiro Iwama
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Satoko Kumada
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Tokyo Metropolitan Neurological Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tiziana Pisano
- Neuroscience Department, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer-University of Florence
| | - Carmen Barba
- Neuroscience Department, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer-University of Florence
| | - Annalisa Vetro
- Neuroscience Department, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer-University of Florence
| | - Eva H Brilstra
- Genetics Department, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Patrick Carney
- Department of Neurology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - P Ian Andrews
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Sam Berkovic
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lance H Rodan
- Department of Neurology and Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children’s Hospital
| | | | | | - Renzo Guerrini
- Neuroscience Department, Children’s Hospital A. Meyer-University of Florence
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Heather C Mefford
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Simone Mandelstam
- Department of Pediatrics and Radiology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Imaging, Royal Children’s Hospital of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Linda Laux
- Epilepsy Center and Division of Neurology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - John J Millichap
- Epilepsy Center and Division of Neurology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alicia Guemez-Gamboa
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Angus C Nairn
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Gemma L Carvill
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Glass HC, Soul JS, Chang T, Wusthoff CJ, Chu CJ, Massey SL, Abend NS, Lemmon M, Thomas C, Numis AL, Guillet R, Sturza J, McNamara NA, Rogers EE, Franck LS, McCulloch CE, Shellhaas RA. Safety of Early Discontinuation of Antiseizure Medication After Acute Symptomatic Neonatal Seizures. JAMA Neurol 2021; 78:817-825. [PMID: 34028496 PMCID: PMC8145161 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2021.1437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Question Is discontinuation of antiseizure medication (ASM) after resolution of acute symptomatic neonatal seizures and prior to discharge from the hospital associated with functional neurodevelopment or epilepsy at 24 months? Findings In this comparative effectiveness study of 303 children with neonatal seizures from 9 centers, 64% had ASM maintained at hospital discharge. No difference was found between ASM maintenance and discontinuation groups in functional neurodevelopment or epilepsy; 13% of children developed epilepsy, including more than one-third with infantile spasms. Meaning These results support discontinuing ASMs for most neonates with acute symptomatic seizures prior to discharge from the hospital, an approach that may represent an evidence-based change in practice for many clinicians. Importance Antiseizure medication (ASM) treatment duration for acute symptomatic neonatal seizures is variable. A randomized clinical trial of phenobarbital compared with placebo after resolution of acute symptomatic seizures closed early owing to low enrollment. Objective To assess whether ASM discontinuation after resolution of acute symptomatic neonatal seizures and before hospital discharge is associated with functional neurodevelopment or risk of epilepsy at age 24 months. Design, Setting, and Participants This comparative effectiveness study included 303 neonates with acute symptomatic seizures (282 with follow-up data and 270 with the primary outcome measure) from 9 US Neonatal Seizure Registry centers, born from July 2015 to March 2018. The centers all had level IV neonatal intensive care units and comprehensive pediatric epilepsy programs. Data were analyzed from June 2020 to February 2021. Exposures The primary exposure was duration of ASM treatment dichotomized as ASM discontinued vs ASM maintained at the time of discharge from the neonatal seizure admission. To enhance causal association, each outcome risk was adjusted for propensity to receive ASM at discharge. Propensity for ASM maintenance was defined by a logistic regression model including seizure cause, gestational age, therapeutic hypothermia, worst electroencephalogram background, days of electroencephalogram seizures, and discharge examination (all P ≤ .10 in a joint model except cause, which was included for face validity). Main Outcomes and Measures Functional neurodevelopment was assessed by the Warner Initial Developmental Evaluation of Adaptive and Functional Skills (WIDEA-FS) at 24 months powered for propensity-adjusted noninferiority of early ASM discontinuation. Postneonatal epilepsy, a prespecified secondary outcome, was defined per International League Against Epilepsy criteria, determined by parent interview, and corroborated by medical records. Results Most neonates (194 of 303 [64%]) had ASM maintained at the time of hospital discharge. Among 270 children evaluated at 24 months (mean [SD], 23.8 [0.7] months; 147 [54%] were male), the WIDEA-FS score was similar for the infants whose ASMs were discontinued (101 of 270 [37%]) compared with the infants with ASMs maintained (169 of 270 [63%]) at discharge (median score, 165 [interquartile range, 150-175] vs 161 [interquartile range, 129-174]; P = .09). The propensity-adjusted average difference was 4 points (90% CI, −3 to 11 points), which met the a priori noninferiority limit of −12 points. The epilepsy risk was similar (11% vs 14%; P = .49), with a propensity-adjusted odds ratio of 1.5 (95% CI, 0.7-3.4; P = .32). Conclusions and Relevance In this comparative effectiveness study, no difference was found in functional neurodevelopment or epilepsy at age 24 months among children whose ASM was discontinued vs maintained at hospital discharge after resolution of acute symptomatic neonatal seizures. These results support discontinuation of ASM prior to hospital discharge for most infants with acute symptomatic neonatal seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah C Glass
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco.,Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics; University of California, San Francisco
| | - Janet S Soul
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Taeun Chang
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Hospital, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
| | - Courtney J Wusthoff
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California.,Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Catherine J Chu
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shavonne L Massey
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.,Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Nicholas S Abend
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.,Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.,Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Monica Lemmon
- Departments of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Cameron Thomas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Adam L Numis
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco.,Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Ronnie Guillet
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Golisano Children's Hospital, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Julie Sturza
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Elizabeth E Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Linda S Franck
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco.,Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Charles E McCulloch
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics; University of California, San Francisco
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Palmer EE, Howell K, Scheffer IE. Natural History Studies and Clinical Trial Readiness for Genetic Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:1432-1444. [PMID: 34708325 PMCID: PMC8608984 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01133-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) are the most severe group of epilepsies. They usually begin in infancy or childhood with drug-resistant seizures, epileptiform EEG patterns, developmental slowing or regression, and cognitive impairment. DEEs have a high mortality and profound morbidity; comorbidities are common including autism spectrum disorders. With advances in genetic sequencing, over 400 genes have been implicated in DEEs, with a genetic cause now identified in over 50% patients. Each genetic DEE typically has a broad genotypic-phenotypic spectrum, based on the underlying pathophysiology. There is a pressing need to improve health outcomes by developing novel targeted therapies for specific genetic DEE phenotypes that not only improve seizure control, but also developmental outcomes and comorbidities. Clinical trial readiness relies firstly on a deep understanding of phenotype-genotype correlation and evolution of a condition over time, in order to select appropriate patients for clinical trials. Understanding the natural history of the disorder informs assessment of treatment efficacy in terms of both clinical outcome and biomarker utility. Natural history studies (NHS) provide a high quality, integrated, comprehensive approach to understanding a complex disease and underpin clinical trial design for novel therapies. NHS are pre-planned observational studies designed to track the course of a disease and identify demographic, genetic, environmental, and other variables, including biomarkers, that correlate with the disease's evolution and outcomes. Due to the rarity of individual genetic DEEs, appropriately funded high-quality DEE NHS will be required, with sustainable frameworks and equitable access to affected individuals globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth E Palmer
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Katherine Howell
- Department of Neurology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Department of Neurology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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61
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Ziobro JM, Eschbach K, Shellhaas RA. Novel Therapeutics for Neonatal Seizures. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:1564-1581. [PMID: 34386906 PMCID: PMC8608938 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01085-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Neonatal seizures are a common neurologic emergency for which therapies have not significantly changed in decades. Improvements in diagnosis and pathophysiologic understanding of the distinct features of acute symptomatic seizures and neonatal-onset epilepsies present exceptional opportunities for development of precision therapies with potential to improve outcomes. Herein, we discuss the pathophysiology of neonatal seizures and review the evidence for currently available treatment. We present emerging therapies in clinical and preclinical development for the treatment of acute symptomatic neonatal seizures. Lastly, we discuss the role of precision therapies for genetic neonatal-onset epilepsies and address barriers and goals for developing new therapies for clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Ziobro
- Department of Pediatrics, Michigan Medicine, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, 1540 E. Hospital Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Krista Eschbach
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology, Denver Anschutz School of Medicine, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Renée A Shellhaas
- Department of Pediatrics, Michigan Medicine, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, 1540 E. Hospital Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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62
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Cornet MC, Morabito V, Lederer D, Glass HC, Ferrao Santos S, Numis AL, Ferriero DM, Sands TT, Cilio MR. Neonatal presentation of genetic epilepsies: Early differentiation from acute provoked seizures. Epilepsia 2021; 62:1907-1920. [PMID: 34153113 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although most seizures in neonates are due to acute brain injury, some represent the first sign of neonatal onset genetic epilepsies. Delay in recognition and lack of expert assessment of neonates with epilepsy may result in worse developmental outcomes. As in older children and adults, seizure semiology in neonates is an essential determinant in diagnosis. We aimed to establish whether seizure type at presentation in neonates can suggest a genetic etiology. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and electroencephalographic (EEG) characteristics of seizures in neonates admitted in two Level IV neonatal intensive care units, diagnosed with genetic epilepsy, for whom a video-EEG recording at presentation was available for review, and compared them on a 1:2 ratio with neonates with seizures due to stroke or hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. RESULTS Twenty neonates with genetic epilepsy were identified and compared to 40 neonates with acute provoked seizures. Genetic epilepsies were associated with pathogenic variants in KCNQ2 (n = 12), KCNQ3 (n = 2), SCN2A (n = 2), KCNT1 (n = 1), PRRT2 (n = 1), and BRAT1 (n = 2). All neonates with genetic epilepsy had seizures with clinical correlates that were either tonic (18/20) or myoclonic (2/20). In contrast, 17 of 40 (42%) neonates with acute provoked seizures had electrographic only seizures, and the majority of the remainder had clonic seizures. Time to first seizure was longer in neonates with genetic epilepsies (median = 60 h of life) compared to neonates with acute provoked seizures (median = 15 h of life, p < .001). Sodium channel-blocking antiseizure medications were effective in 13 of 14 (92%) neonates with tonic seizures who were trialed at onset or during the course of the epilepsy. SIGNIFICANCE Seizure semiology is an easily accessible sign of genetic epilepsies in neonates. Early identification of the seizure type can prompt appropriate workup and treatment. Tonic seizures are associated with channelopathies and are often controlled by sodium channel-blocking antiseizure medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Coralie Cornet
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Valeria Morabito
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Hannah C Glass
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Susana Ferrao Santos
- Department of Neurology, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Adam L Numis
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Donna M Ferriero
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Tristan T Sands
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Maria Roberta Cilio
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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63
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Ritter DM, Horn PS, Holland KD. In Silico Predictions of KCNQ Variant Pathogenicity in Epilepsy. Pediatr Neurol 2021; 118:48-54. [PMID: 33784504 PMCID: PMC8076079 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Variants in KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 may cause benign neonatal familial seizures and early infantile epileptic encephalopathy. Previous reports suggest that in silico models cannot predict pathogenicity accurately enough for clinical use. Here we sought to establish a model to accurately predict the pathogenicity of KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 missense variants based on available in silico prediction models. METHODS ClinVar and gnomAD databases of reported KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 missense variants in patients with neonatal epilepsy were accessed and classified as benign, pathogenic, or of uncertain significance. Sensitivity, specificity, and classification accuracy for prediction of pathogenicity were determined and compared for 10 widely used prediction algorithms program. A mathematical model of the variants (KCNQ Index) was created using their amino acid location and prediction algorithm scores to improve prediction accuracy. RESULTS Using clinically characterized variants, the free online tool PROVEAN accurately predicted pathogenicity 92% of the time and the KCNQ Index had an accuracy of 96%. However, when including the gnomAD database as benign variants, only the KCNQ Index was able to predict pathogenicity with an accuracy greater than 90% (sensitivity = 93% and specificity = 98%). No model could accurately predict the phenotype of variants. CONCLUSION We show that KCNQ channel variant pathogenicity can be predicted by a novel KCNQ Index in neonatal epilepsy. However, more work is needed to accurately predict the patient's epilepsy phenotype from in silico algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Ritter
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | - Paul S Horn
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Katherine D Holland
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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64
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Genetic Neonatal-Onset Epilepsies and Developmental/Epileptic Encephalopathies with Movement Disorders: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22084202. [PMID: 33919646 PMCID: PMC8072943 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite expanding next generation sequencing technologies and increasing clinical interest into complex neurologic phenotypes associating epilepsies and developmental/epileptic encephalopathies (DE/EE) with movement disorders (MD), these monogenic conditions have been less extensively investigated in the neonatal period compared to infancy. We reviewed the medical literature in the study period 2000–2020 to report on monogenic conditions characterized by neonatal onset epilepsy and/or DE/EE and development of an MD, and described their electroclinical, genetic and neuroimaging spectra. In accordance with a PRISMA statement, we created a data collection sheet and a protocol specifying inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 28 different genes (from 49 papers) leading to neonatal-onset DE/EE with multiple seizure types, mainly featuring tonic and myoclonic, but also focal motor seizures and a hyperkinetic MD in 89% of conditions, with neonatal onset in 22%, were identified. Neonatal seizure semiology, or MD age of onset, were not always available. The rate of hypokinetic MD was low, and was described from the neonatal period only, with WW domain containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) pathogenic variants. The outcome is characterized by high rates of associated neurodevelopmental disorders and microcephaly. Brain MRI findings are either normal or nonspecific in most conditions, but serial imaging can be necessary in order to detect progressive abnormalities. We found high genetic heterogeneity and low numbers of described patients. Neurological phenotypes are complex, reflecting the involvement of genes necessary for early brain development. Future studies should focus on accurate neonatal epileptic phenotyping, and detailed description of semiology and time-course, of the associated MD, especially for the rarest conditions.
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65
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Boets S, Johannesen KM, Destree A, Manti F, Ramantani G, Lesca G, Vercueil L, Koenig MK, Striano P, Møller RS, Cooper E, Weckhuysen S. Adult phenotype of KCNQ2 encephalopathy. J Med Genet 2021; 59:528-535. [PMID: 33811133 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2020-107449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathogenic KCNQ2 variants are a frequent cause of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. METHODS We recruited 13 adults (between 18 years and 45 years of age) with KCNQ2 encephalopathy and reviewed their clinical, EEG, neuroimaging and treatment history. RESULTS While most patients had daily seizures at seizure onset, seizure frequency declined or remitted during childhood and adulthood. The most common seizure type was tonic seizures (early) infancy, and tonic-clonic and focal impaired awareness seizures later in life. Ten individuals (77%) were seizure-free at last follow-up. In 38% of the individuals, earlier periods of seizure freedom lasting a minimum of 2 years followed by seizure recurrence had occurred. Of the 10 seizure-free patients, 4 were receiving a single antiseizure medication (ASM, carbamazepine, lamotrigine or levetiracetam), and 2 had stopped taking ASM. Intellectual disability (ID) ranged from mild to profound, with the majority (54%) of individuals in the severe category. At last contact, six individuals (46%) remained unable to walk independently, six (46%) had limb spasticity and four (31%) tetraparesis/tetraplegia. Six (46%) remained non-verbal, 10 (77%) had autistic features/autism, 4 (31%) exhibited aggressive behaviour and 4 (31%) destructive behaviour with self-injury. Four patients had visual problems, thought to be related to prematurity in one. Sleep problems were seen in six (46%) individuals. CONCLUSION Seizure frequency declines over the years and most patients are seizure-free in adulthood. Longer seizure-free periods followed by seizure recurrence are common during childhood and adolescence. Most adult patients have severe ID. Motor, language and behavioural problems are an issue of continuous concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Boets
- Neurology Department, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Katrine M Johannesen
- Department of Epilepsy Genetics and Personalized Treatment, The Danish Epilepsy Centre Filadelfia, Dianalund, Denmark.,Institute for Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anne Destree
- Department of Human Genetics, Institute of Pathology and Genetics, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Filippo Manti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome La Sapienza, Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Georgia Ramantani
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Children's Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gaetan Lesca
- Department of Genetics, University Hospitals of Lyon, Lyon, France.,Neuroscience Research Center, Claude Bernard Lyon I University, Lyon, France
| | - Laurent Vercueil
- Grenoble Institute of Neurosciences (GIN), University Grenoble Alpes, La Tronche, France
| | - Mary Kay Koenig
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, "G Gaslini" Institute, Genova, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS' G Gaslini" Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - Rikke Steensbjerre Møller
- Department of Epilepsy Genetics and Personalized Treatment, The Danish Epilepsy Centre Filadelfia, Dianalund, Denmark.,Institute for Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Edward Cooper
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sarah Weckhuysen
- Neurology Department, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium .,Applied & Translational Neurogenomics Group, VIB-Center for Molecular Neurology, VIB, Antwerp, Belgium.,Translational Neuroscience Group, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Abstract
Seizures are the most common neurological emergency in the neonates, and this age group has the highest incidence of seizures compared with any other period of life. The author provides a narrative review of recent advances in the genetics of neonatal epilepsies, new neonatal seizure classification system, diagnostics, and treatment of neonatal seizures based on a comprehensive literature review (MEDLINE using PubMED and OvidSP vendors with appropriate keywords to incorporate recent evidence), personal practice, and experience. Knowledge regarding various systemic and postzygotic genetic mutations responsible for neonatal epilepsy has been exploded in recent times, as well as better delineation of clinical phenotypes associated with rare neonatal epilepsies. An International League Against Epilepsy task force on neonatal seizure has proposed a new neonatal seizure classification system and also evaluated the specificity of semiological features related to particular etiology. Although continuous video electroencephalogram (EEG) is the gold standard for monitoring neonatal seizures, amplitude-integrated EEGs have gained significant popularity in resource-limited settings. There is tremendous progress in the automated seizure detection algorithm, including the availability of a fully convolutional neural network using artificial machine learning (deep learning). There is a substantial need for ongoing research and clinical trials to understand optimal medication selection (first line, second line, and third line) for neonatal seizures, treatment duration of antiepileptic drugs after cessation of seizures, and strategies to improve neuromorbidities such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and developmental impairments. Although in recent times, levetiracetam use has been significantly increased for neonatal seizures, a multicenter, randomized, blinded, controlled phase IIb trial confirmed the superiority of phenobarbital over levetiracetam in the acute suppression of neonatal seizures. While there is no single best choice available for the management of neonatal seizures, institutional guidelines should be formed based on a consensus of local experts to mitigate wide variability in the treatment and to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debopam Samanta
- Child Neurology Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
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Abramov D, Guiberson NGL, Burré J. STXBP1 encephalopathies: Clinical spectrum, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies. J Neurochem 2021; 157:165-178. [PMID: 32643187 PMCID: PMC7812771 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in Munc18-1/STXBP1 (syntaxin-binding protein 1) are linked to various severe early epileptic encephalopathies and neurodevelopmental disorders. Heterozygous mutations in the STXBP1 gene include missense, nonsense, frameshift, and splice site mutations, as well as intragenic deletions and duplications and whole-gene deletions. No genotype-phenotype correlation has been identified so far, and patients are treated by anti-epileptic drugs because of the lack of a specific disease-modifying therapy. The molecular disease mechanisms underlying STXBP1-linked disorders are yet to be fully understood, but both haploinsufficiency and dominant-negative mechanisms have been proposed. This review focuses on the current understanding of the phenotypic spectrum of STXBP1-linked disorders, as well as discusses disease mechanisms in the context of the numerous pathways in which STXBP1 functions in the brain. We additionally evaluate the available animal models to study these disorders and highlight potential therapeutic approaches for treating these devastating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra Abramov
- Appel Institute for Alzheimer's Disease Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Noah Guy Lewis Guiberson
- Appel Institute for Alzheimer's Disease Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacqueline Burré
- Appel Institute for Alzheimer's Disease Research, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Mary L, Nourisson E, Feger C, Laugel V, Chaigne D, Keren B, Afenjar A, Billette T, Trost D, Cieuta-Walti C, Gerard B, Piton A, Schaefer E. Pathogenic variants in KCNQ2 cause intellectual deficiency without epilepsy: Broadening the phenotypic spectrum of a potassium channelopathy. Am J Med Genet A 2021; 185:1803-1815. [PMID: 33754465 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing (HTS) improved the molecular diagnosis in individuals with intellectual deficiency (ID) and helped to broaden the phenotype of previously known disease-causing genes. We report herein four unrelated patients with isolated ID, carriers of a likely pathogenic variant in KCNQ2, a gene usually implicated in benign familial neonatal seizures (BFNS) or early onset epileptic encephalopathy (EOEE). Patients were diagnosed by targeted HTS or exome sequencing. Pathogenicity of the variants was assessed by multiple in silico tools. Patients' ID ranged from mild to severe with predominance of speech disturbance and autistic features. Three of the four variants disrupted the same amino acid. Compiling all the pathogenic variants previously reported, we observed a strong overlap between variants causing EOEE, isolated ID, and BFNS and an important intra-familial phenotypic variability, although missense variants in the voltage-sensing domain and the pore are significantly associated to EOEE (p < 0.01, Fisher test). Thus, pathogenic variants in KCNQ2 can be associated with isolated ID. We did not highlight strong related genotype-phenotype correlations in KCNQ2-related disorders. A second genetic hit, a burden of rare variants, or other extrinsic factors may explain such a phenotypic variability. However, it is of interest to study encephalopathy genes in non-epileptic ID patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mary
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Elsa Nourisson
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Claire Feger
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Vincent Laugel
- Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Denys Chaigne
- Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Boris Keren
- Département de Génétique, Centre de Référence des Déficiences Intellectuelles de Causes Rares, Groupe de Recherche Clinique "Déficiences Intellectuelles et Autisme," Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Sorbonne Universités, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (Université Paris 06), UMRS 1127, INSERM U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Afenjar
- Centre de Référence Déficiences Intellectuelles de Causes Rares, Département de Génétique et Embryologie Médicale, Hôpital Trousseau, Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Thierry Billette
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital Armand Trousseau, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Bénédicte Gerard
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Amélie Piton
- Laboratoire de Diagnostic Génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), CNRS UMR-7104, Inserm U964, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Elise Schaefer
- Service de Génétique Médicale, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Institut de Génétique Médicale d'Alsace, Strasbourg, France
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69
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Morrison-Levy N, Borlot F, Jain P, Whitney R. Early-Onset Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies of Infancy: An Overview of the Genetic Basis and Clinical Features. Pediatr Neurol 2021; 116:85-94. [PMID: 33515866 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Our current knowledge of genetically determined forms of epilepsy has shortened the diagnostic pathway usually experienced by the families of infants diagnosed with early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Genetic causes can be found in up to 80% of infants presenting with early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, often in the context of an uneventful perinatal history and with no clear underlying brain abnormalities. Although current disease-specific therapies remain limited and patient outcomes are often guarded, a genetic diagnosis may lead to early therapeutic intervention using new and/or repurposed therapies. In this review, an overview of epilepsy genetics, the indications for genetic testing in infants, the advantages and limitations of each test, and the challenges and ethical implications of genetic testing are discussed. In addition, the following causative genes associated with early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathies are discussed in detail: KCNT1, KCNQ2, KCNA2, SCN2A, SCN8A, STXBP1, CDKL5, PIGA, SPTAN1, and GNAO1. The epilepsy phenotypes, comorbidities, electroencephalgraphic findings, neuroimaging findings, and potential targeted therapies for each gene are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Felippe Borlot
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Puneet Jain
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robyn Whitney
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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70
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Berg AT, Mahida S, Poduri A. KCNQ2-DEE: developmental or epileptic encephalopathy? Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2021; 8:666-676. [PMID: 33616268 PMCID: PMC7951099 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective KCNQ2‐associated developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) present with seizures and developmental impairments. The relation between seizures and functional impairments in affected children and the relation of a specific genetic variant to seizure control remains unknown. Methods Parents of children with documented KCNQ2 variants who participated in a structured, online natural history survey provided information about seizure history, functional mobility, hand use, communication function, and feeding independence. Bivariate analyses were performed with nonparametric methods and logistic regression was used for multivariable analyses. Results Thirty‐nine children (20, 51% girls, median age 4.5 years, interquartile range (IQR) 1.9—19.3) had a median age of seizure onset of 1 day (IQR 1—3 days). The most common seizure types were bilateral tonic‐clonic (N = 72, 28%) and bilateral tonic (N = 13, 33%). Time since last seizure was <6 months (N = 18, 46%), 6–23 months (N = 11, 28%), and ≥24 months (N = 10 26%). Severe functional impairment was reported for mobility (62%), hand grasp (31%), feeding (59%), and communication (77%). Twenty‐eight (72%) were impaired in ≥2 domains. There were only weak and inconsistent associations between seizure recency and individual impairments or number of impairments after adjustment for other factors. The functional location of the variants within the Kv7.2 protein was not associated with seizure control. Interpretation Seizures in KCNQ2‐DEE are often well‐controlled, but children have severe impairments regardless. With the increased potential for precision therapies targeting the Kv7.2 channel or the KCNQ2 gene itself, identifying the most relevant and sensitive clinical endpoints will be critical to ensure successful trials of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- Division of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sonal Mahida
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Annapurna Poduri
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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71
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Nieto-Barcelo JJ, Gonzalez Montes N, Gonzalo Alonso I, Martinez F, Aparisi MJ, Martinez-Matilla M, Marco Hernandez AV, Tomás Vila M. Variant in CACNA1G as a Possible Genetic Modifier of Neonatal Epilepsy in an Infant with a De Novo SCN2A Mutation. J Pediatr Genet 2021; 12:159-162. [PMID: 37090830 PMCID: PMC10118702 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1723958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMutations in SCN2A genes have been described in patients with epilepsy, finding a large phenotypic variability, from benign familial epilepsy to epileptic encephalopathy. To explain this variability, it was proposed the existence of dominant modifier alleles at one or more loci that contribute to determine the severity of the epilepsy phenotype. One example of modifier factor may be the CACNA1G gene, as proved in animal models. We present a 6-day-old male newborn with recurrent seizures in which a mutation in the SCN2A gene is observed, in addition to a variant in CACNA1G gene. Our patient suffered in the first days of life myoclonic seizures, with pathologic intercritical electroencephalogram pattern, requiring multiple drugs to achieve adequate control of them. During the next weeks, the patient progressively improved until complete remission at the second month of life, being possible to withdraw the antiepileptic treatment. We propose that the variant in CACNA1G gene could have acted as a modifier of the epilepsy syndrome produced by the mutation in SCN2A gene in our patient.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Francisco Martinez
- Genetics Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria Jose Aparisi
- Genomics Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Miguel Tomás Vila
- Neuropediatrics Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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72
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Kaminiów K, Kozak S, Paprocka J. Neonatal Seizures Revisited. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8020155. [PMID: 33670692 PMCID: PMC7922511 DOI: 10.3390/children8020155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Seizures are the most common neurological disorder in newborns and are most prevalent in the neonatal period. They are mostly caused by severe disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). However, they can also be a sign of the immaturity of the infant’s brain, which is characterized by the presence of specific factors that increase excitation and reduce inhibition. The most common disorders which result in acute brain damage and can manifest as seizures in neonates include hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, infections of the CNS as well as electrolyte and biochemical disturbances. The therapeutic management of neonates and the prognosis are different depending on the etiology of the disorders that cause seizures which can lead to death or disability. Therefore, establishing a prompt diagnosis and implementing appropriate treatment are significant, as they can limit adverse long-term effects and improve outcomes. In this review paper, we present the latest reports on the etiology, pathomechanism, clinical symptoms and guidelines for the management of neonates with acute symptomatic seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Kaminiów
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (K.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Sylwia Kozak
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (K.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Justyna Paprocka
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence:
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73
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Trollmann R. Neuromonitoring in Neonatal-Onset Epileptic Encephalopathies. Front Neurol 2021; 12:623625. [PMID: 33603712 PMCID: PMC7884638 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.623625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering the wide spectrum of etiologies of neonatal-onset epileptic encephalopathies (EE) and their unfavorable consequences for neurodevelopmental prognoses, neuromonitoring at-risk neonates is increasingly important. EEG is highly sensitive for early identification of electrographic seizures and abnormal background activity. Amplitude-integrated EEG (aEEG) is recommended as a useful bedside monitoring method but as a complementary tool because of methodical limitations. It is of special significance in monitoring neonates with acute symptomatic as well as structural, metabolic and genetic neonatal-onset EE, being at high risk of electrographic-only and prolonged seizures. EEG/aEEG monitoring is established as an adjunctive tool to confirm perinatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). In neonates with HIE undergoing therapeutic hypothermia, burst suppression pattern is associated with good outcomes in about 40% of the patients. The prognostic specificity of EEG/aEEG is lower compared to cMRI. As infants with HIE may develop seizures after cessation of hypothermia, recording for at least 24 h after the last seizure is recommended. Progress in the identification of genetic etiology of neonatal EE constantly increases. However, presently, no specific EEG changes indicative of a genetic variant have been characterized, except for individual variants associated with typical EEG patterns (e.g., KCNQ2, KCNT1). Long-term monitoring studies are necessary to define and classify electro-clinical patterns of neonatal-onset EE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Trollmann
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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74
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Pressler RM, Cilio MR, Mizrahi EM, Moshé SL, Nunes ML, Plouin P, Vanhatalo S, Yozawitz E, de Vries LS, Puthenveettil Vinayan K, Triki CC, Wilmshurst JM, Yamamoto H, Zuberi SM. The ILAE classification of seizures and the epilepsies: Modification for seizures in the neonate. Position paper by the ILAE Task Force on Neonatal Seizures. Epilepsia 2021; 62:615-628. [PMID: 33522601 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Seizures are the most common neurological emergency in the neonatal period and in contrast to those in infancy and childhood, are often provoked seizures with an acute cause and may be electrographic-only. Hence, neonatal seizures may not fit easily into classification schemes for seizures and epilepsies primarily developed for older children and adults. A Neonatal Seizures Task Force was established by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) to develop a modification of the 2017 ILAE Classification of Seizures and Epilepsies, relevant to neonates. The neonatal classification framework emphasizes the role of electroencephalography (EEG) in the diagnosis of seizures in the neonate and includes a classification of seizure types relevant to this age group. The seizure type is determined by the predominant clinical feature. Many neonatal seizures are electrographic-only with no evident clinical features; therefore, these are included in the proposed classification. Clinical events without an EEG correlate are not included. Because seizures in the neonatal period have been shown to have a focal onset, a division into focal and generalized is unnecessary. Seizures can have a motor (automatisms, clonic, epileptic spasms, myoclonic, tonic), non-motor (autonomic, behavior arrest), or sequential presentation. The classification allows the user to choose the level of detail when classifying seizures in this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronit M Pressler
- Clinical Neuroscience, UCL- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Maria Roberta Cilio
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Institute for Experimental and Clinical Research, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eli M Mizrahi
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Solomon L Moshé
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child Neurology, Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Magda L Nunes
- Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Rio Grande do Sul - PUCRS School of Medicine and the Brain Institute, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Perrine Plouin
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Hospital Necker Enfant Malades, Paris, France
| | - Sampsa Vanhatalo
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology and BABA center Children's Hospital, HUS Imaging, Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, Helsinki University Central Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elissa Yozawitz
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child Neurology, Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Linda S de Vries
- Department of Neonatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Chahnez C Triki
- Department of Child Neurology, Hedi Chaker Hospital, LR19ES15 Sfax University, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Jo M Wilmshurst
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hitoshi Yamamoto
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Sameer M Zuberi
- Paediatric Neurosciences Research Group, Royal Hospital for Children & Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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75
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Pisani F, Spagnoli C, Falsaperla R, Nagarajan L, Ramantani G. Seizures in the neonate: A review of etiologies and outcomes. Seizure 2021; 85:48-56. [PMID: 33418166 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal seizures occur in their majority in close temporal relation to an acute brain injury or systemic insult, and are accordingly defined as acute symptomatic or provoked seizures. However less frequently, unprovoked seizures may also present in the neonatal period as secondary to structural brain abnormalities, thus corresponding to structural epilepsies, or to genetic conditions, thus corresponding to genetic epilepsies. Unprovoked neonatal seizures should be thus considered as the clinical manifestation of early onset structural or genetic epilepsies that often have the characteristics of early onset epileptic encephalopathies. In this review, we address the conundrum of neonatal seizures including acute symptomatic, remote symptomatic, provoked, and unprovoked seizures, evolving to post-neonatal epilepsies, and neonatal onset epilepsies. The different clinical scenarios involving neonatal seizures, each with their distinct post-neonatal evolution are presented. The structural and functional impact of neonatal seizures on brain development and the concept of secondary epileptogenesis, with or without a following latent period after the acute seizures, are addressed. Finally, we underline the need for an early differential diagnosis between an acute symptomatic seizure and an unprovoked seizure, since it is associated with fundamental differences in clinical evolution. These are crucial aspects for neonatal management, counselling and prognostication. In view of the above aspects, we provide an outlook on future strategies and potential lines of research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Pisani
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Carlotta Spagnoli
- Child Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Raffaele Falsaperla
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University-Hospital Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele, Catania, Italy
| | - Lakshmi Nagarajan
- Children's Neuroscience Service, Department of Neurology, Perth Children's Hospital, Australia
| | - Georgia Ramantani
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Switzerland.
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76
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Grinspan ZM, Patel AD, Shellhaas RA, Berg AT, Axeen ET, Bolton J, Clarke DF, Coryell J, Gaillard WD, Goodkin HP, Koh S, Kukla A, Mbwana JS, Morgan LA, Singhal NS, Storey MM, Yozawitz EG, Abend NS, Fitzgerald MP, Fridinger SE, Helbig I, Massey SL, Prelack MS, Buchhalter J. Design and implementation of electronic health record common data elements for pediatric epilepsy: Foundations for a learning health care system. Epilepsia 2021; 62:198-216. [PMID: 33368200 PMCID: PMC10508354 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Common data elements (CDEs) are standardized questions and answer choices that allow aggregation, analysis, and comparison of observations from multiple sources. Clinical CDEs are foundational for learning health care systems, a data-driven approach to health care focused on continuous improvement of outcomes. We aimed to create clinical CDEs for pediatric epilepsy. METHODS A multiple stakeholder group (clinicians, researchers, parents, caregivers, advocates, and electronic health record [EHR] vendors) developed clinical CDEs for routine care of children with epilepsy. Initial drafts drew from clinical epilepsy note templates, CDEs created for clinical research, items in existing registries, consensus documents and guidelines, quality metrics, and outcomes needed for demonstration projects. The CDEs were refined through discussion and field testing. We describe the development process, rationale for CDE selection, findings from piloting, and the CDEs themselves. We also describe early implementation, including experience with EHR systems and compatibility with the International League Against Epilepsy classification of seizure types. RESULTS Common data elements were drafted in August 2017 and finalized in January 2020. Prioritized outcomes included seizure control, seizure freedom, American Academy of Neurology quality measures, presence of common comorbidities, and quality of life. The CDEs were piloted at 224 visits at 10 centers. The final CDEs included 36 questions in nine sections (number of questions): diagnosis (1), seizure frequency (9), quality of life (2), epilepsy history (6), etiology (8), comorbidities (2), treatment (2), process measures (5), and longitudinal history notes (1). Seizures are categorized as generalized tonic-clonic (regardless of onset), motor, nonmotor, and epileptic spasms. Focality is collected as epilepsy type rather than seizure type. Seizure frequency is measured in nine levels (all used during piloting). The CDEs were implemented in three vendor systems. Early clinical adoption included 1294 encounters at one center. SIGNIFICANCE We created, piloted, refined, finalized, and implemented a novel set of clinical CDEs for pediatric epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary M Grinspan
- Departments of Population Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Anup D Patel
- Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Renée A Shellhaas
- Department of Pediatrics (Pediatric Neurology), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anne T Berg
- Division of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Erika T Axeen
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Jeffrey Bolton
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A
| | - David F Clarke
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Jason Coryell
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon
| | - William D Gaillard
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Health System and School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Howard P Goodkin
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Sookyong Koh
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Children’s Center, 2015 Uppergate Drive NE, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Juma S Mbwana
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Health System and School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Nilika S Singhal
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Seattle Children’s Hospital, University of Washington, and Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Margaret M Storey
- Department of History, College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, DePaul University, Chicago, IL
| | - Elissa G Yozawitz
- Saul Korey Department of Neurology, Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Nicholas S Abend
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Mark P Fitzgerald
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sara E Fridinger
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Ingo Helbig
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- The Epilepsy NeuroGenetics Initiative (ENGIN), Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics (DBHi), Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Shavonne L Massey
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Marisa S Prelack
- Division of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jeffrey Buchhalter
- Department of Neurology, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona
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77
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Snir M, Nazareth S, Simmons E, Hayward L, Ashcraft K, Bristow SL, Esplin ED, Aradhya S. Democratizing genomics: Leveraging software to make genetics an integral part of routine care. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS. PART C, SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 187:14-27. [PMID: 33296144 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Genetic testing can provide definitive molecular diagnoses and guide clinical management decisions from preconception through adulthood. Innovative solutions for scaling clinical genomics services are necessary if they are to transition from a niche specialty to a routine part of patient care. The expertise of specialists, like genetic counselors and medical geneticists, has traditionally been relied upon to facilitate testing and follow-up, and while ideal, this approach is limited in its ability to integrate genetics into primary care. As individuals, payors, and providers increasingly realize the value of genetics in mainstream medicine, several implementation challenges need to be overcome. These include electronic health record integration, patient and provider education, tools to stay abreast of guidelines, and simplification of the test ordering process. Currently, no single platform offers a holistic view of genetic testing that streamlines the entire process across specialties that begins with identifying at-risk patients in mainstream care settings, providing pretest education, facilitating consent and test ordering, and following up as a "genetic companion" for ongoing management. We describe our vision for using software that includes clinical-grade chatbots and decision support tools, with direct access to genetic counselors and pharmacists within a modular, integrated, end-to-end testing journey.
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78
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Lemmon ME, Bonifacio SL, Shellhaas RA, Wusthoff CJ, Greenberg RG, Soul JS, Chang T, Chu CJ, Bates S, Massey SL, Abend NS, Cilio MR, Glass HC. Characterization of Death in Infants With Neonatal Seizures. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 113:21-25. [PMID: 32980743 PMCID: PMC7669564 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2020.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal seizures are associated with death and neurological morbidity; however, little is known about how neonates with seizures die. METHODS This was a prospective, observational cohort study of neonates with seizures treated at seven sites of the Neonatal Seizure Registry. We characterized the mode of death, evaluated the association between infant characteristics and mode of death, and evaluated predictors of death or transfer to hospice. RESULTS We enrolled 611 consecutive neonates with seizures, and 90 neonates (15%) died before hospital discharge at a median age of 11 days (range: 1 to 163 days); 32 (36%) died in the first postnatal week. An additional 19 neonates (3%) were transferred to hospice. The most common mode of in-hospital death was death after extubation amidst concerns for poor neurological prognosis, in the absence of life-threatening physiologic instability (n = 43, 48%). Only one infant died while actively receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In an adjusted analysis, premature birth (odds ratio: 3.06, 95% confidence interval 1.59 to 5.90) and high seizure burden (odds ratio: 4.33, 95% confidence interval 1.88 to 9.95) were associated with increased odds of death or transfer to hospice. CONCLUSION In a cohort of neonates with seizures, death occurred predominantly after decisions to withdraw or withhold life-sustaining intervention(s). Future work should characterize how these decisions occur and develop optimized approaches to support families and clinicians caring for newborns with seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica E. Lemmon
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Dr, Durham, NC 27710, United States
| | - Sonia L. Bonifacio
- Departments of Pediatrics, Stanford University, 291 Campus Dr, Palo Alto, CA 94305, United States
| | - Renée A. Shellhaas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, 1540 E Hospital Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Courtney J. Wusthoff
- Departments of Pediatrics, Stanford University, 291 Campus Dr, Palo Alto, CA 94305, United States;,Departments of Neurology, Stanford University, 291 Campus Dr, Palo Alto, CA 94305, United States
| | - Rachel G. Greenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Dr, Durham, NC 27710, United States;,Duke Clinical Research Institute, 301 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701, United States
| | - Janet S. Soul
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Taeun Chang
- Department of Neurology, Children’s National Hospital, George Washington University School of Medicine, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Catherine J. Chu
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Sara Bates
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Shavonne L. Massey
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104 United States
| | - Nicholas S. Abend
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3401 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104 United States;,Department of Anesthesia & Critical Care Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104 United States
| | - M. Roberta Cilio
- Department of Pediatrics, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Catholic University of Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannah C. Glass
- Department of Pediatrics, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, University of California San Francisco, 1975 4th St, San Francisco, CA 94158, United States;,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics; University of California San Francisco, 1701 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States;,Department of Neurology; UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, University of California San Francisco, 1975 4th St, San Francisco, CA 94158, United States
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79
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Berg AT, Palac H, Wilkening G, Zelko F, Schust Meyer L. SCN2A-Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies: Challenges to trial-readiness for non-seizure outcomes. Epilepsia 2020; 62:258-268. [PMID: 33236786 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE SCN2A-associated developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) present with seizures, developmental impairments, and often both. We sought to characterize the level and pattern of development in children with SCN2A variants, and to address the sensitivity of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS) in measuring changes over time in children with SCN2A-DEEs. METHODS Clinical histories for participants with pathogenic SCN2A variants in the Simons SearchLight project were analyzed for descriptive purposes. VABS scores obtained at study entry and yearly thereafter were analyzed for floor and ceiling effects, change with age, and association with epilepsy through use of regression and longitudinal regression methods. RESULTS Sixty-four participants (50 with epilepsy, 30 [47%] female, median age 49 months, interquartile range [IQR] 28 to 101) were included. Histories of birth complications (N = 34, 54%), neonatal neurological signs (N = 45, 74%), and other neurological symptoms (N = 31, 48%) were common and similar in epilepsy and nonepilepsy subgroups. Mean standardized VABS scores (Composite 53.5; Motor, 55.8, Communication, 54.1, Socialization, 59.4, and Daily living skills, 55.1) reflected performance ~3 standard deviations below the normative test average. In longitudinal regression analyses, standardized scores decreased between 1.3 and 2.8 points per year, suggesting regression of abilities. Raw score analyses, however, revealed several subdomains with substantial floor effects (eg, community use); other raw scores increased with increasing age. Participants with epilepsy scored 0.6 to 1 SD lower than those without epilepsy (all P's < .05). SIGNIFICANCE The VABS, as standardly administered, has shortcomings for addressing growth or regression in individuals with SCN2A-DEEs. Some subdomain raw scores reflected substantial floor effects. Raw scores increased so slowly over time that standardized scores declined. Alternative measures sensitive to incremental meaningful change are required if outcomes such as adaptive behavior are to be primary outcomes in short-term clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- Division of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hannah Palac
- Data Solutions, REDCap Cloud, Encinitas, CA, USA
| | - Greta Wilkening
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Frank Zelko
- Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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80
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Dirkx N, Miceli F, Taglialatela M, Weckhuysen S. The Role of Kv7.2 in Neurodevelopment: Insights and Gaps in Our Understanding. Front Physiol 2020; 11:570588. [PMID: 33192566 PMCID: PMC7657400 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.570588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Kv7.2 subunits encoded by the KCNQ2 gene constitute a critical molecular component of the M-current, a subthreshold voltage-gated potassium current controlling neuronal excitability by dampening repetitive action potential firing. Pathogenic loss-of-function variants in KCNQ2 have been linked to epilepsy since 1998, and there is ample functional evidence showing that dysfunction of the channel indeed results in neuronal hyperexcitability. The recent description of individuals with severe developmental delay with or without seizures due to pathogenic variants in KCNQ2 (KCNQ2-encephalopathy) reveals that Kv7.2 channels also have an important role in neurodevelopment. Kv7.2 channels are expressed already very early in the developing brain when key developmental processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and synaptogenesis play a crucial role in brain morphogenesis and maturation. In this review, we will discuss the available evidence for a role of Kv7.2 channels in these neurodevelopmental processes, focusing in particular on insights derived from KCNQ2-related human phenotypes, from the spatio-temporal expression of Kv7.2 and other Kv7 family member, and from cellular and rodent models, highlighting critical gaps and research strategies to be implemented in the future. Lastly, we propose a model which divides the M-current activity in three different developmental stages, correlating with the cell characteristics during these particular periods in neuronal development, and how this can be linked with KCNQ2-related disorders. Understanding these mechanisms can create opportunities for new targeted therapies for KCNQ2-encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Dirkx
- Applied and Translational Neurogenomics Group, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Francesco Miceli
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Taglialatela
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sarah Weckhuysen
- Applied and Translational Neurogenomics Group, VIB Center for Molecular Neurology, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
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81
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Abstract
Pediatric epilepsy is a highly variable condition due to age-related expression of syndromes that require specific diagnosis, evaluations, and treatments. Children with epilepsy differ from their adult counterparts in many important ways, mostly related to the age-related expression of specific epilepsy syndromes. This results in many important considerations related to the epilepsy diagnosis, classification, evaluations to determine an etiology, as well as treatment guidelines. A good understanding of these factors will help to establish an accurate epilepsy diagnosis, which in turn will guide appropriate testing and treatment decisions. In this way, patients will have improved seizure outcomes, and families will be educated appropriately and provided with the most accurate prognostic information available. The purpose of this article is to review the diagnosis, work-up, and management of pediatric epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey R Tenney
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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82
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Abstract
Because of next-generation sequencing and the discovery of many new causative genes, genetic testing in epilepsy patients has become widespread. Pathologic variants resulting in epilepsy cause a variety of changes that can be broadly classified into syndromic disorders (i.e., chromosomal abnormalities), metabolic disorders, brain malformations, and abnormal cellular signaling. Here, we review the available genetic testing, reasons to pursue genetic testing, common genetic causes of epilepsy, the data behind what patients are found to have genetic epilepsies based on current testing, and discussing these results with patients. We propose an algorithm for testing patients with epilepsy to maximize yield and limit costs based on their phenotype (including electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging findings), age of seizure onset, and presence of other neurologic comorbidities. Being able to discern which type of genetic testing to order, using that information to give targeted and cost-effective patient care, and interpreting results accurately will be a crucial skill for the modern neurologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Ritter
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Katherine Holland
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
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83
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Romantseva L, Lin N. Acute Seizures-Work-Up and Management in Children. Semin Neurol 2020; 40:606-616. [PMID: 33155186 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1718718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Seizures are common in the pediatric population; however, most children do not go on to develop epilepsy later in life. Selecting appropriate diagnostic modalities to determine an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment as well as with counseling families regarding the etiology and prognosis of seizures, is essential. This article will review updated definitions of seizures, including provoked versus unprovoked, as well as the International League Against Epilepsy operational definition of epilepsy. A variety of specific acute symptomatic seizures requiring special consideration are discussed, along with neonatal seizures and seizure mimics, which are common in pediatric populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubov Romantseva
- Section of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Nan Lin
- Section of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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84
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Lemmon M, Glass H, Shellhaas RA, Barks MC, Bailey B, Grant K, Grossbauer L, Pawlowski K, Wusthoff CJ, Chang T, Soul J, Chu CJ, Thomas C, Massey SL, Abend NS, Rogers EE, Franck LS. Parent experience of caring for neonates with seizures. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2020; 105:634-639. [PMID: 32503792 PMCID: PMC7581607 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2019-318612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neonates with seizures have a high risk of mortality and neurological morbidity. We aimed to describe the experience of parents caring for neonates with seizures. DESIGN This prospective, observational and multicentre (Neonatal Seizure Registry) study enrolled parents of neonates with acute symptomatic seizures. At the time of hospital discharge, parents answered six open-ended response questions that targeted their experience. Responses were analysed using a conventional content analysis approach. RESULTS 144 parents completed the open-ended questions (732 total comments). Four themes were identified. Sources of strength: families valued medical team consensus, opportunities to contribute to their child's care and bonding with their infant. Uncertainty: parents reported three primary types of uncertainty, all of which caused distress: (1) the daily uncertainty of the intensive care experience; (2) concerns about their child's uncertain future and (3) lack of consensus between members of the medical team. Adapting family life: parents described the many ways in which they anticipated their infant's condition would lead to adaptations in their family life, including adjusting their family's lifestyle, parenting approach and routine. Many parents described financial and work challenges due to caring for a child with medical needs. Emotional and physical toll: parents reported experiencing anxiety, fear, stress, helplessness and loss of sleep. CONCLUSIONS Parents of neonates with seizures face challenges as they adapt to and find meaning in their role as a parent of a child with medical needs. Future interventions should target facilitating parent involvement in clinical and developmental care, improving team consensus and reducing the burden associated with prognostic uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Lemmon
- Pediatrics and Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hannah Glass
- Neurology and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA,Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Renee A Shellhaas
- Pediatrics (Neurology Division), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mary Carol Barks
- Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bria Bailey
- Neurology and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Katie Grant
- Parent Partner, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Lisa Grossbauer
- Parent Partner, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kamil Pawlowski
- Parent Partner, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, Oakland, California, USA
| | | | - Taeun Chang
- Neurology, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Janet Soul
- Neurology, Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Catherine J Chu
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cameron Thomas
- Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Shavonne L Massey
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nicholas S Abend
- Neurology, Pediatrics, Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Linda S Franck
- Family Health Care Nursing, University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, San Francisco, California, USA
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85
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Sandoval Karamian AG, Wusthoff CJ, Boothroyd D, Yeom KW, Knowles JK. Neonatal genetic epilepsies display convergent white matter microstructural abnormalities. Epilepsia 2020; 61:e192-e197. [PMID: 33098118 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
White matter undergoes rapid development in the neonatal period. Its structure during and after development is influenced by neuronal activity. Pathological neuronal activity, as in seizures, might alter white matter, which in turn may contribute to network dysfunction. Neonatal epilepsy presents an opportunity to investigate seizures and early white matter development. Our objective was to determine whether neonatal seizures in the absence of brain injury or congenital anomalies are associated with altered white matter microstructure. In this retrospective case-control study of term neonates, cases had confirmed or suspected genetic epilepsy and normal brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and no other conditions independently impacting white matter. Controls were healthy neonates with normal MRI results. White matter microstructure was assessed via quantitative mean diffusivity (MD). In 22 cases, MD was significantly lower in the genu of the corpus callosum, compared to 22 controls, controlling for gestational age and postmenstrual age at MRI. This finding suggests convergent abnormal corpus callosum microstructure in neonatal epilepsies with diverse suspected genetic causes. Further study is needed to determine the specific nature, causes, and functional impact of seizure-associated abnormal white matter in neonates, a potential pathogenic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda G Sandoval Karamian
- Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Courtney J Wusthoff
- Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Derek Boothroyd
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Kristen W Yeom
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Juliet K Knowles
- Department of Neurology, Division of Child Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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86
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Abstract
Neonates presenting with seizures are frequently assessed and managed by neonatologists in the NICU. Although hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and infection are common underlying causes of neonatal seizures, many patients with neonatal epilepsy will have an identifiable genetic etiology. Often these cases will be evaluated in collaboration with a geneticist. The categories of genetic causes of neonatal seizures include 1) structural brain malformations; 2) inborn errors of metabolism; 3) syndromic; and 4) nonsyndromic, single gene. Evaluation of these patients involves a comprehensive history and examination, followed by appropriate investigations and diagnostic genetic testing. Components of the diagnostic process will vary based on the clinical suspicion and differential diagnoses. In certain cases, syndromic surveillance for evaluation of other congenital anomalies may be recommended. Determination of the underlying genetic diagnosis, when present, will have important implications for treatment. Targeted therapies are currently available for specific genetic syndromes, and outcomes may improve with earlier initiation of therapy. Certain genetic diagnoses may also have guideline-based management involving screening for other manifestations of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shagun Kaur
- Division of Genetic, Genomic, and Metabolic Disorders, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI
| | - Kara Pappas
- Division of Genetic, Genomic, and Metabolic Disorders, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI.,Department of Pediatrics, Central Michigan University, Mt Pleasant, MI
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87
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Turner TJ, Zourray C, Schorge S, Lignani G. Recent advances in gene therapy for neurodevelopmental disorders with epilepsy. J Neurochem 2020; 157:229-262. [PMID: 32880951 PMCID: PMC8436749 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders can be caused by mutations in neuronal genes fundamental to brain development. These disorders have severe symptoms ranging from intellectually disability, social and cognitive impairments, and a subset are strongly linked with epilepsy. In this review, we focus on those neurodevelopmental disorders that are frequently characterized by the presence of epilepsy (NDD + E). We loosely group the genes linked to NDD + E with different neuronal functions: transcriptional regulation, intrinsic excitability and synaptic transmission. All these genes have in common a pivotal role in defining the brain architecture and function during early development, and when their function is altered, symptoms can present in the first stages of human life. The relationship with epilepsy is complex. In some NDD + E, epilepsy is a comorbidity and in others seizures appear to be the main cause of the pathology, suggesting that either structural changes (NDD) or neuronal communication (E) can lead to these disorders. Furthermore, grouping the genes that cause NDD + E, we review the uses and limitations of current models of the different disorders, and how different gene therapy strategies are being developed to treat them. We highlight where gene replacement may not be a treatment option, and where innovative therapeutic tools, such as CRISPR‐based gene editing, and new avenues of delivery are required. In general this group of genetically defined disorders, supported increasing knowledge of the mechanisms leading to neurological dysfunction serve as an excellent collection for illustrating the translational potential of gene therapy, including newly emerging tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Turner
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Clara Zourray
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.,Department of Pharmacology, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, UK
| | | | - Gabriele Lignani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
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88
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Genetic testing strategies in the newborn. J Perinatol 2020; 40:1007-1016. [PMID: 32472107 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-020-0697-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Genetic disorders presenting in the neonatal period can have a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis can facilitate timely prognostic counseling to families and possibility of precision care, which could improve outcome. As availability of diagnostic testing expands, the required knowledge base of the neonatologist must also expand to include proper application and understanding of genetic testing modalities, especially where availability of clinical genetics consultation is limited. Herein, we review genetic tests utilized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) providing background on the technology, clinical indications, advantages, and limitations of the tests. This review will span from classic cytogenetics to the evolving role of next generation sequencing and its impact on the management of neonatal disease.
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89
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Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurologic disorders seen in children, with the highest incidence in the first year of life. Diagnostic accuracy can be challenging because many seizure mimics must be considered. Electroencephalography and neuroimaging can be critical in determining etiology and syndrome. Genetic testing is a high-yield endeavor, particularly in early-life epilepsies. Up to one-fourth of children with epilepsy will develop drug-resistant seizures. Comorbidities are very common in children with epilepsy, including intellectual disability in 25% and learning disability and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in a significant minority. These comorbidities must be recognized and addressed as part of the child's overall care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Fine
- Division of Epilepsy and Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Elaine C Wirrell
- Division of Epilepsy and Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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90
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Targeted gene panel sequencing in early infantile onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Brain Dev 2020; 42:438-448. [PMID: 32139178 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) is characterized by repeated seizures beginning within 3 months of birth and severe interictal epileptiform discharge, including burst suppression. This study assessed the utility of targeted gene panel sequencing in the genetic diagnosis of this disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS Targeted gene panel sequencing was performed in 150 early infantile-onset DEE patients (≤3 months of age), and we extensively reviewed their clinical characteristics, including therapeutic efficacy, according to genotype. RESULTS Of the early infantile-onset DEE patients, 70 were neonatal-onset DEE and the other 80 patients began experiencing seizures from 1 to 3 months after birth. There were 11 different pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants among 34.7% (52/150) of patients with early infantile-onset DEE, in whom KCNQ2, STXBP1, CDKL5, and SCN1A were the major pathogenic variants. Among the neonatal-onset DEE patients, pathological genes were identified in 42.9% (30/70), indicating a significantly higher diagnostic yield than in 27.5% (22/80) of patients who experienced seizure onset 1 to 3 months after birth (p = 0.048). Among the neonatal-onset DEE group, variants in KCNQ2, STXBP1, and CDKL5 were detected at high frequencies, accounting for 66.7% (20/30) of the pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants found in this study. CONCLUSION Targeted gene panel sequencing demonstrated a high yield of pathogenic variants in the diagnosis of early-onset epileptic encephalopathy, especially in those with neonatal-onset DEE. Early diagnosis of early-onset epileptic encephalopathy may improve the prognosis of patients by earlier selection of appropriate treatment based on pathogenic variant.
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91
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Vučetić Tadić B, Kravljanac R, Sretenović V, Martić J, Vukomanović V. The features of neonatal seizures as predictors of drug-resistant epilepsy in children. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 106:107004. [PMID: 32179504 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of the features of neonatal seizures for pharmacoresistant epilepsy in children. METHOD This is a retrospective study that involved all children diagnosed as having epilepsy who had neonatal seizures and who were hospitalized at the Neurology Department of the Mother and Child Healthcare Institute in Belgrade from January the 1st 2017 until December 31st 2017. The following parameters and their impact on the outcome were investigated: perinatal data, the characteristics of epileptic seizures in the neonatal period, and the response to anticonvulsant treatment. The presence of pharmacoresistance was observed as an outcome parameter. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to define predictors of drug-resistant epilepsy. RESULTS The study involved 55 children, 35 (63.6%) male and 20 (36.4%) female. The average age of the children at the end of the observation period was 5.17 years (min: 0.25, max: 17.75, iqr (interquartile range): 6.92). Pharmacoresistant epilepsy was found in 36 (65.5%) children. The most common type of epilepsy was focal, which affected 30 patients (54.5%), than generalized, which affected 15 patients (27.3%), and combined generalized and focal, which affected 8 patients (14.5%). At the end of the observation period, 28 patients (50.9%) had no seizures, while 14 (25.5%) had daily seizures. It was found that the pharmacoresistant neonatal seizures and metabolic-genetic disorders were predictive factors of the occurrence of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. CONCLUSION Patients prone to developing pharmacoresistant epilepsy might be identified as early as the neonatal and early infant period. High incidence of asphyxia cooccurring with established genetic-metabolic disease further emphasizes need for genetic testing in infants with neonatal seizures including in the presence of hypoxic-ischemic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ružica Kravljanac
- Institute for Mother and Child Healthcare of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia; University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Jelena Martić
- Institute for Mother and Child Healthcare of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia; University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vladislav Vukomanović
- Institute for Mother and Child Healthcare of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia; University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
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92
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Abstract
Epilepsy encompasses a group of heterogeneous brain diseases that affect more than 50 million people worldwide. Epilepsy may have discernible structural, infectious, metabolic, and immune etiologies; however, in most people with epilepsy, no obvious cause is identifiable. Based initially on family studies and later on advances in gene sequencing technologies and computational approaches, as well as the establishment of large collaborative initiatives, we now know that genetics plays a much greater role in epilepsy than was previously appreciated. Here, we review the progress in the field of epilepsy genetics and highlight molecular discoveries in the most important epilepsy groups, including those that have been long considered to have a nongenetic cause. We discuss where the field of epilepsy genetics is moving as it enters a new era in which the genetic architecture of common epilepsies is starting to be unraveled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Perucca
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.,Departments of Medicine and Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3050, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Melanie Bahlo
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Samuel F Berkovic
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3084, Australia;
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93
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Burgess R, Wang S, McTague A, Boysen KE, Yang X, Zeng Q, Myers KA, Rochtus A, Trivisano M, Gill D, Sadleir LG, Specchio N, Guerrini R, Marini C, Zhang YH, Mefford HC, Kurian MA, Poduri AH, Scheffer IE. The Genetic Landscape of Epilepsy of Infancy with Migrating Focal Seizures. Ann Neurol 2020; 86:821-831. [PMID: 31618474 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizures (EIMFS) is one of the most severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. We delineate the genetic causes and genotype-phenotype correlations of a large EIMFS cohort. METHODS Phenotypic and molecular data were analyzed on patients recruited through an international collaborative study. RESULTS We ascertained 135 patients from 128 unrelated families. Ninety-three of 135 (69%) had causative variants (42/55 previously reported) across 23 genes, including 9 novel EIMFS genes: de novo dominant GABRA1, GABRB1, ATP1A3; X-linked CDKL5, PIGA; and recessive ITPA, AIMP1, KARS, WWOX. The most frequently implicated genes were KCNT1 (36/135, 27%) and SCN2A (10/135, 7%). Mosaicism occurred in 2 probands (SCN2A, GABRB3) and 3 unaffected mothers (KCNT1). Median age at seizure onset was 4 weeks, with earlier onset in the SCN2A, KCNQ2, and BRAT1 groups. Epileptic spasms occurred in 22% patients. A total of 127 patients had severe to profound developmental impairment. All but 7 patients had ongoing seizures. Additional features included microcephaly, movement disorders, spasticity, and scoliosis. Mortality occurred in 33% at median age 2 years 7 months. INTERPRETATION We identified a genetic cause in 69% of patients with EIMFS. We highlight the genetic heterogeneity of EIMFS with 9 newly implicated genes, bringing the total number to 33. Mosaicism was observed in probands and parents, carrying critical implications for recurrence risk. EIMFS pathophysiology involves diverse molecular processes from gene and protein regulation to ion channel function and solute trafficking. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:821-831.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Burgess
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shuyu Wang
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amy McTague
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences, University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katja E Boysen
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xiaoling Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zeng
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kenneth A Myers
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre; Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anne Rochtus
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Marina Trivisano
- Rare and Complex Epilepsies Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care, Rome, Italy
| | - Deepak Gill
- T. Y. Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Lynette G Sadleir
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Nicola Specchio
- Rare and Complex Epilepsies Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care, Rome, Italy
| | - Renzo Guerrini
- Pediatric Neurology, Neurogenetics, and Neurobiology Unit and Laboratories, Children's Hospital A. Meyer-University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carla Marini
- Pediatric Neurology, Neurogenetics, and Neurobiology Unit and Laboratories, Children's Hospital A. Meyer-University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Yue-Hua Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Heather C Mefford
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Manju A Kurian
- Molecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences, University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Annapurna H Poduri
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Royal Children's Hospital, Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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94
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Lee S, Kim SH, Kim B, Lee ST, Choi JR, Kim HD, Lee JS, Kang HC. Genetic diagnosis and clinical characteristics by etiological classification in early-onset epileptic encephalopathy with burst suppression pattern. Epilepsy Res 2020; 163:106323. [PMID: 32247221 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-onset epileptic encephalopathies with burst suppression (EOEE-BS) are a group of neonatal epileptic syndromes characterized by intractable epilepsy and severe psychomotor delay with structural and metabolic factors accounting for major etiologies. However, recent advances in gene sequencing have identified that genetic factors might also play a significant role in the development of EOEE-BS. Herein, we used various genetic tests to identify pathogenic genetic variants in EOEE-BS irrespective of structural malformations and analyzed the clinical features associated with each different etiology. METHODS A total of 48 patients with EOEE-BS were included. Except for patients with severe hypoxic damage, patients with structural malformations were included in our patient cohort. Clinical features of the patients were reviewed, and etiological diagnoses were made based on several genetic tests, metabolic studies, and radiological findings. RESULT A genetic diagnosis was made in 31 (64.6 %) patients, with the most commonly diagnosed gene being STXBP1 (n = 13, 27.1 %), followed by KCNQ2 (n = 5, 10.4 %), SCN2A (n = 5, 10.4 %), DEPDC5 (n = 3, 6.3 %), CASK (n = 1, 2.1 %), CDKL5 (n = 1, 2.1 %), GNAO1 (n = 1, 2.1 %), SLC6A8 (n = 1, 2.1 %), and LIS1 deletion (n = 1, 2.1 %). Other than the classification of epilepsy syndrome, no clinical features were associated with the genetically diagnosed group. Among eight patients with structural malformations, genetic diagnosis was achieved in five (62.5 %), and those patients had pathogenic mutations in DEPDC5 and CASK or LIS1 deletion, indicating the significance of gene sequencing irrespective of structural abnormalities. Treatment responses to a variety of medications and the ketogenic diet differed by etiology, and surgical resection proved to be effective in patients with cortical dysplasia. CONCLUSION Genetic etiologies are an important factor in EOEE-BS irrespective of structural malformations and the treatment options may differ by etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangbo Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hee Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Borahm Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Tae Lee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Rak Choi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Heung Dong Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Soo Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon-Chul Kang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yonsei-ro 50-1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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95
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Rochtus A, Olson HE, Smith L, Keith LG, El Achkar C, Taylor A, Mahida S, Park M, Kelly M, Shain C, Rockowitz S, Sheidley BR, Poduri A. Genetic diagnoses in epilepsy: The impact of dynamic exome analysis in a pediatric cohort. Epilepsia 2020; 61:249-258. [PMID: 31957018 PMCID: PMC7404709 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We evaluated the yield of systematic analysis and/or reanalysis of whole exome sequencing (WES) data from a cohort of well-phenotyped pediatric patients with epilepsy and suspected but previously undetermined genetic etiology. METHODS We identified and phenotyped 125 participants with pediatric epilepsy. Etiology was unexplained at the time of enrollment despite clinical testing, which included chromosomal microarray (57 patients), epilepsy gene panel (n = 48), both (n = 28), or WES (n = 8). Clinical epilepsy diagnoses included developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE), febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome, Rasmussen encephalitis, and other focal and generalized epilepsies. We analyzed WES data and compared the yield in participants with and without prior clinical genetic testing. RESULTS Overall, we identified pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in 40% (50/125) of our study participants. Nine patients with DEE had genetic variants in recently published genes that had not been recognized as epilepsy-related at the time of clinical testing (FGF12, GABBR1, GABBR2, ITPA, KAT6A, PTPN23, RHOBTB2, SATB2), and eight patients had genetic variants in candidate epilepsy genes (CAMTA1, FAT3, GABRA6, HUWE1, PTCHD1). Ninety participants had concomitant or subsequent clinical genetic testing, which was ultimately explanatory for 26% (23/90). Of the 67 participants whose molecular diagnoses were "unsolved" through clinical genetic testing, we identified pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in 17 (25%). SIGNIFICANCE Our data argue for early consideration of WES with iterative reanalysis for patients with epilepsy, particularly those with DEE or epilepsy with intellectual disability. Rigorous analysis of WES data of well-phenotyped patients with epilepsy leads to a broader understanding of gene-specific phenotypic spectra as well as candidate disease gene identification. We illustrate the dynamic nature of genetic diagnosis over time, with analysis and in some cases reanalysis of exome data leading to the identification of disease-associated variants among participants with previously nondiagnostic results from a variety of clinical testing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Rochtus
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Heather E. Olson
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lacey Smith
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Louisa G. Keith
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christelle El Achkar
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alan Taylor
- Department of Genomics, Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Sonal Mahida
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Meredith Park
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - McKenna Kelly
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherine Shain
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shira Rockowitz
- Information Services Department, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Beth Rosen Sheidley
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Annapurna Poduri
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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96
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Czech T, Pardo AC. Utility of Rapid Sequence Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Guiding Management of Patients With Neonatal Seizures. Pediatr Neurol 2020; 103:57-60. [PMID: 31570293 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the use of rapid sequence magnetic resonance imaging (rsMRI) is associated with improved efficiency of care when managing infants with suspected neonatal onset seizures. METHODS We conducted a preintervention and postintervention study of the use of rsMRI in term infants with suspected neonatal onset seizures without evidence of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Study patients were collected from a contemporary cohort from 2016 to 2017 and were compared with a historical cohort from 2014. The primary outcome was hospital length of stay. Secondary outcomes included use of other imaging modalities (head ultrasound, computed tomography [CT], and MRI), use of antiseizure medications at the time of discharge, and cost of hospitalization. Continuous variables were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test and categorical variables using the Fisher's exact or χ2 tests. A two-tailed P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Ninety-five patients met inclusion criteria, 47 in the preintervention and 48 in the postintervention group. Incorporation of the protocol-guided rsMRI in the evaluation of patients with neonatal seizures was associated with decreased use of CT scans (34% vs 10%, P = 0.007) and full MRIs (85% vs 62%, P = 0.019). Use of head ultrasound, length of stay, and costs were not different between groups. CONCLUSIONS In patients with neonatal seizures, rsMRI was not associated with a reduced hospital length of stay. The use of rsMRI resulted in fewer neonates receiving CT scans during their hospitalization. rsMRI may hasten the identification of stroke or hemorrhage in neonates with seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Czech
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrea C Pardo
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
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97
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Chang BS, Krishnan V, Dulla CG, Jette N, Marsh ED, Dacks PA, Whittemore V, Poduri A. Epilepsy Benchmarks Area I: Understanding the Causes of the Epilepsies and Epilepsy-Related Neurologic, Psychiatric, and Somatic Conditions. Epilepsy Curr 2020; 20:5S-13S. [PMID: 31965828 PMCID: PMC7031801 DOI: 10.1177/1535759719895280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2014 NINDS Benchmarks for Epilepsy Research included area I: Understand the causes of the epilepsies and epilepsy-related neurologic, psychiatric, and somatic conditions. In preparation for the 2020 Curing Epilepsies Conference, where the Benchmarks will be revised, this review will cover scientific progress toward that Benchmark, with emphasize on studies since 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard S Chang
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vaishnav Krishnan
- Departments of Neurology, Neuroscience and Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chris G Dulla
- Department of Neuroscience, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nathalie Jette
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric D Marsh
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Vicky Whittemore
- Division of Neuroscience, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA, USA
| | - Annapurna Poduri
- Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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98
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Molinero I, Galanopoulou AS, Moshé SL. Rodent models: Where it all started with these "truths". Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2020; 24:61-65. [PMID: 31875833 PMCID: PMC7179510 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2019.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Molinero
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child Neurology and Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental Epilepsy, and Comprehensive Einstein/Montefiore Epilepsy Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA; 111 East 210th Street, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA.
| | - Aristea S Galanopoulou
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child Neurology and Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental Epilepsy, and Comprehensive Einstein/Montefiore Epilepsy Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA; Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; 1410 Pelham Parkway South, Kennedy Center Rm 306, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
| | - Solomon L Moshé
- Isabelle Rapin Division of Child Neurology and Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Developmental Epilepsy, and Comprehensive Einstein/Montefiore Epilepsy Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA; Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; 1410 Pelham Parkway South, Kennedy Center Rm 316, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
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99
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Scheffer IE, Liao J. Deciphering the concepts behind "Epileptic encephalopathy" and "Developmental and epileptic encephalopathy". Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2020; 24:11-14. [PMID: 31926847 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2019.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The recent introduction of the term 'developmental and epileptic encephalopathy' by the International League Against Epilepsy has added another conceptual layer to understanding the most severe group of epilepsies. An epileptic encephalopathy is defined by the presence of frequent epileptiform activity that impacts adversely on development, typically causing slowing or regression of developmental skills, and usually associated with frequent seizures. Many of the epileptic encephalopathies are now known to have an identifiable molecular genetic basis. The term 'developmental' was introduced as there are multiple facets leading to developmental impairment in affected individuals. The underlying genetic cause often results in developmental delay in its own right, with the epileptic encephalopathy further adversely affecting development. Treatment of the epileptic encephalopathy may improve developmental progress, so early recognition and active management are essential to improve developmental outcomes. Equally, understanding that the genetic aetiology independently leads to developmental impairment means that precision therapies need to be holistic in addressing the devastating consequences of this group of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid E Scheffer
- Department of Medicine and Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey Institute and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Jianxiang Liao
- Epilepsy Center, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
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100
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Perry MS. Age Is Just a Number: Adults Deserve the Same Access to Genetic Testing as Children. Epilepsy Curr 2019; 20:14-15. [PMID: 31838893 PMCID: PMC7020534 DOI: 10.1177/1535759719887695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical utility of multigene panel testing in adults with epilepsy and intellectual disability Borlot F, De Almeida BI, Combe SL, Andrade DM, Filloux FM, Myers KA. Epilepsia. 2019;60(8):1661-1669. doi:10.1111/epi.16273. Objective: To determine the diagnostic yield of a commercial epilepsy gene panel in adults with chronic epilepsy and accompanying intellectual disability, given that genetic evaluation is often overlooked in this group of patients. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study analyzing the results of epilepsy gene panels including up to 185 genes in adult epilepsy patients with intellectual disability, according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. Patients with acquired structural brain abnormalities or known chromosomal abnormalities were excluded. Results: From approximately 600 patients seen from January 2017 to June 2018 at a single academic epilepsy center, 64 probands and 2 affected relatives (32 males, mean age = 31 years ± 10) were selected and clinically tested. Fourteen probands (14/64 = 22%; 4 males, mean age = 32 years ± 10) were found to have pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in the following genes: SCN1A, GABRB3, UBE3A, KANSL1, SLC2A1, KCNQ2, SLC6A1, HNRNPU, STX1B, SCN2A, PURA, and CHD2. Six variants arose de novo, and the inheritance was not determined in 8. Nine probands (64%) had severe or profound intellectual disability, and 5 (35%) had autistic features. Eight patients (57%) had a diagnostic change from presumptive clinical diagnosis prior to genetic testing. Significance: We were able to demonstrate that a commercial epilepsy gene panel can be an important resource in clinical practice, identifying the etiology in 22% of adults with epilepsy and intellectual disability. The diagnostic yield is similar to previously reported pediatric cohorts. Larger samples would be required to evaluate the more prevalent genotypes among patients with adult epilepsy.
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