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Mammadova D, Vecko J, Hofmann M, Schüssler SC, Deiters L, Canda A, Wieland AK, Gollwitzer S, Hamer H, Trollmann R. A single-center observational study on long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with tuberous sclerosis complex. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:349. [PMID: 37946245 PMCID: PMC10637019 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02959-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystem disorder caused by mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 gene. More than 90% of patients with TSC develop neurological and/or neuropsychiatric manifestations. The aim of the present study was to determine the developmental and cognitive long-term outcomes of pediatric TSC patients. METHODS This cross-sectional, monocenter study included pediatric TSC patients who received multidisciplinary long-term care with a last visit between 2005 and 2019. Neurological manifestations and cognitive development (BSID, K-ABC) were analyzed in relation to age and type of mutation. RESULTS Thirty-five patients aged 13.5 ± 7.8 years were included in the study. Diagnosis was confirmed genetically in 65.7% of patients (TSC1, 26.1%; TSC2, 65.2%; NMI, 8.7%). Mean age at diagnosis was 1.3 ± 3.5 years; 74.3% of the patients had been diagnosed within the first year of life due to seizures (62.9%) or/and cardiac rhabdomyomas (28.6%). The most common TSC manifestations included structural brain lesions (cortical tubers, 91.4%; subependymal nodules, 82.9%), epilepsy (85.7%), and cardiac rhabdomyomas (62.9%). Mean age at seizure onset was 1.5 ± 2.3 years, with onset in 80.0% of patients within the first two years of life. Infantile spasms, which were the first seizure type in 23.3% of the patients, developed earlier (0.6 ± 0.4 years) than focal seizures (1.8 ± 2.5 years). Refractory epilepsy was present in 21 (70.0%) patients, mild or severe intellectual impairment in 66.6%, and autism spectrum disorders in 11.4%. Severe cognitive impairment (33.3%) was significantly associated with epilepsy type and age at seizure onset (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The results emphasized the phenotypic variability of pediatric-onset TSC and the high rate of neurological and neuropsychiatric morbidity. Early-onset refractory epilepsy was associated with impaired cognitive development. Children of all ages with TSC require multidisciplinary long-term care and individual early-intervention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Mammadova
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - J Vecko
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - M Hofmann
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - S C Schüssler
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - L Deiters
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - A Canda
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - A K Wieland
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Center of Rare Diseases Erlangen (ZSEER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - S Gollwitzer
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Center of Rare Diseases Erlangen (ZSEER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - H Hamer
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Center of Rare Diseases Erlangen (ZSEER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Pediatric Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Loschgestr. 15, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
- Center of Rare Diseases Erlangen (ZSEER), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany.
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Skrobanski H, Vyas K, Bowditch S, Hubig L, Dziadulewicz E, Fish L, Takhar P, Lo SH. The Burden of Caring for Individuals with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) Who Experience Epileptic Seizures: A Descriptive UK Survey. PHARMACOECONOMICS - OPEN 2023; 7:299-312. [PMID: 36757566 PMCID: PMC10043106 DOI: 10.1007/s41669-023-00387-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystem genetic condition characterised by benign tumours; prevalent manifestations include epilepsy and neuropsychiatric disorders. This study examined the burden of TSC for primary caregivers and families, exploring the impact of characteristics such as seizures. METHODS Primary caregivers of individuals with TSC in the United Kingdom participated in an online survey, comprising the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ Family Impact Module, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and TSC-specific items. Responses were analysed using descriptive and regression analysis statistics (closed-ended) or qualitative content analysis (open-ended). RESULTS Seventy-three participants partially completed and 59 fully completed the survey; 95% were female, and 90% were parents of an individual with TSC. A median (range) of 2 (1-11) household members were carers. Primary caregivers spent a mean (standard deviation [SD]) of 104.3 (51.7) hours caring in the previous week, reporting high mean (SD) HADS scores of 11.2 (4.8) (anxiety) and 7.9 (4.4) (depression) and considerable family burden. Increased seizure frequency increased hours spent caring by primary caregivers (p = 0.01) and was associated with a decreased mean (SD) family functioning score of 46.2 (23.0) and parent health-related quality of life (HRQL) score of 45.4 (20.3) (both p = 0.03). Multivariable models predicted intellectual disability increased hours spent caring by primary caregivers (p = 0.01-0.04), and neuropsychiatric comorbidities decreased family functioning (p = 0.02) and caregiver HRQL (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION These findings highlight the role of epileptic seizures and neuropsychiatric disorders in the considerable burden of TSC on primary caregivers and families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kishan Vyas
- Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 1 Cavendish Place, London, W1G 0QF, UK
| | - Sally Bowditch
- Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 1 Cavendish Place, London, W1G 0QF, UK.
| | - Lena Hubig
- Acaster Lloyd Consulting Ltd, London, UK
| | | | - Louise Fish
- Genetic Alliance UK, London, UK
- Tuberous Sclerosis Association, London, UK
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Xie H, Ma J, Ji T, Liu Q, Cai L, Wu Y. Efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation in 95 children of drug-resistant epilepsy with structural etiology. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 140:109107. [PMID: 36758359 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is one of the treatment options for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). To analyze the efficacy of VNS in children of DRE with structural etiology, we conducted a cohort study including 95 patients of DRE with structural etiology who underwent VNS treatment. Patients were followed up every 3 months at the outpatient department or via a remote programming platform. The median follow-up period was 2.6 years (range 1.0-4.6 years). The respective responder rates at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of follow-up were 40.0% (38/95), 52.6% (50/95), 56.0% (47/84), and 59.7% (37/62). The respective seizure-free rates at 12, 18, and 24 months of follow-up were 8.4% (8/95), 9.5% (8/84), and 9.7% (6/62). The patients were divided into four groups based on etiologies: malformations of cortical development (n = 26), post-encephalitic lesions (n = 36), perinatal brain injury lesions (n = 31), and hippocampal sclerosis (n = 2). The respective responder rates at 12 months of follow-up in these groups were 53.8% (14/26), 52.8% (19/36), 51.6% (16/31), and 50.0% (1/2). There were no significant differences in gender, age at onset, age at stimulator implantation, epilepsy duration prior to VNS implantation, number of anti-seizure medications ever tried before VNS treatment, pulse amplitude of VNS, specific structural etiologies, lobe distribution or hemispheric side of structural lesions between responders and non-responders. Of the 95 patients, 8 (8.4%) underwent lesion surgery or hemispherectomy before VNS implantation, and 6/8 (75%) of these patients had a >50% reduction in seizure frequency. One patient who had a corpus callosotomy before VNS implantation had no response to VNS treatment. In conclusion, VNS is an effective treatment in children of DRE with structural etiology. There was no significant difference in VNS efficacy in patients with different structural etiologies. Vagus nerve stimulation treatment may also control seizures well in some patients with poor outcomes after lesion resection or hemispherectomy before VNS implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Xie
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayi Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Taoyun Ji
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lixin Cai
- Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.
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Brandt C. Vagus nerve stimulation in people with epilepsy and intellectual disability—English version. ZEITSCHRIFT FÜR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-022-00545-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Genetic pathogenesis of the epileptogenic lesions in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: Therapeutic targeting of the mTOR pathway. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 131:107713. [PMID: 33431351 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic multisystem disease due to the mutation in one of the two genes TSC1 and TSC2, affecting several organs and systems and carrying a significant risk of early onset and refractory seizures. The pathogenesis of this complex disorder is now well known, with most of TSC-related manifestations being a consequence of the overactivation of the mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) complex. The discovery of this underlying mechanism paved the way for the use of a class of drugs called mTOR inhibitors including rapamycin and everolimus and specifically targeting this pathway. Rapamycin has been widely used in different animal models of TSC-related epilepsy and proved to be able not only to suppress seizures but also to prevent the development of epilepsy, thus demonstrating an antiepileptogenic potential. In some models, it also showed some benefit on neuropsychiatric manifestations associated with TSC. Everolimus has recently been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medical Agency for the treatment of refractory seizures associated with TSC starting from the age of 2 years. It demonstrated a clear benefit when compared to placebo on reducing the frequency of different seizure types and exerting a higher effect in younger children. In conclusion, mTOR cascade can be a potentially major cause of TSC-associated epilepsy and neurodevelopmental disability, and additional research should investigate if early suppression of abnormal mTOR signal with mTOR inhibitors before seizure onset can be a more efficient approach and an effective antiepileptogenic and disease-modifying strategy in infants with TSC.
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Nie JZ, Karras CL, Trybula SJ, Texakalidis P, Alden TD. The role of neurosurgery in the management of tuberous sclerosis complex–associated epilepsy: a systematic review. Neurosurg Focus 2022; 52:E6. [DOI: 10.3171/2022.2.focus21789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant, multisystem neurocutaneous disorder associated with cortical tubers, brain lesions seen in nearly all patients with TSC, which are frequently epileptogenic. Seizures are often the earliest clinical manifestation of TSC, leading to epilepsy in over 70% of patients. Medical management with antiepileptic drugs constitutes early therapy, but over 50% develop medically refractory epilepsy, necessitating surgical evaluation and treatment. The objective of this study was to summarize the literature and report seizure outcomes following surgical treatment for TSC-associated epilepsy.
METHODS
A systematic literature review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed and Embase databases were searched for journal articles reporting seizure outcomes following epilepsy surgery in TSC patients. Included studies were placed into one of two groups based on the surgical technique used. Excellent and worthwhile seizure reductions were defined for each group as outcomes and extracted from each study.
RESULTS
A total of 46 studies were included. Forty of these studies reported seizure outcomes following any combination of resection, disconnection, and ablation on a collective 1157 patients. Excellent and worthwhile seizure reductions were achieved in 59% (683/1157) and 85% (450/528) of patients, respectively. Six of these studies reported seizure outcomes following treatment with neuromodulation. Excellent and worthwhile seizure reductions were achieved in 34% (24/70) and 76% (53/70) of patients, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
Surgery effectively controls seizures in select patients with TSC-associated epilepsy, but outcomes vary. Further understanding of TSC-associated epilepsy, improving localization strategies, and emerging surgical techniques represent promising avenues for improving surgical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Z. Nie
- Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois
| | - Constantine L. Karras
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; and
| | - S. Joy Trybula
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; and
| | - Pavlos Texakalidis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; and
| | - Tord D. Alden
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; and
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Hajtovic S, LoPresti MA, Zhang L, Katlowitz KA, Kizek DJ, Lam S. The role of vagus nerve stimulation in genetic etiologies of drug-resistant epilepsy: a meta-analysis. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2022:1-14. [PMID: 35303699 DOI: 10.3171/2022.1.peds222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) affects many children. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) may improve seizure control; however, its role in children with genetic etiologies of epilepsy is not well described. The authors systematically reviewed the literature to examine the effectiveness of VNS in this cohort. METHODS In January 2021, the authors performed a systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS/Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases to investigate the impact of VNS on seizure outcomes in children with genetic etiologies of epilepsy. Primary outcomes included seizure freedom rate, ≥ 90% seizure reduction rate, and ≥ 50% seizure reduction rate. Secondary outcomes were seizure severity and quality of life (QOL), including cognitive, functional, and behavioral outcomes. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS The authors identified 125 articles, of which 47 with 216 nonduplicate patients were analyzed. Common diagnoses were Dravet syndrome (DS) (92/216 patients [42.6%]) and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) (63/216 [29.2%]). Seizure freedom was not reported in any patient with DS; the pooled proportion (95% CI) of patients with ≥ 50% seizure reduction was 41% (21%-58%). Secondary cognitive outcomes of VNS were variable in DS patients, but these patients demonstrated benefits in seizure duration and status epilepticus. In TSC patients, the pooled (95% CI) seizure freedom rate was 40% (12%-71%), ≥ 90% seizure reduction rate was 31% (8%-56%), and ≥ 50% reduction rate was 68% (48%-91%). Regarding the secondary outcomes of VNS in TSC patients, several studies reported decreased seizure severity and improved QOL outcomes. There was limited evidence regarding the use of VNS to treat patients with other genetic etiologies of epilepsy, such as mitochondrial disease, Rett syndrome, Doose syndrome, Landau-Kleffner syndrome, Aicardi syndrome, Angelman syndrome, ring chromosome 20 syndrome, and lissencephaly; variable responses were reported in a limited number of cases. CONCLUSIONS The authors conducted a systematic review of VNS outcomes in children with genetic etiologies of DRE. Among the most studied conditions, patients with TSC had substantial seizure reduction and improvements in QOL, whereas those with DS had less robust seizure reduction. Increased testing, diagnosis, and long-term follow-up studies are necessary to better characterize VNS response in these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabastian Hajtovic
- 1Sophie Davis Biomedical Education Program, City College of New York, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Melissa A LoPresti
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas; and
| | - Lu Zhang
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Northwestern University, Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kalman A Katlowitz
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas; and
| | - Dominic J Kizek
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas; and
| | - Sandi Lam
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Northwestern University, Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
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Nabavi Nouri M, Zak M, Jain P, Whitney R. Epilepsy Management in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: Existing and Evolving Therapies and Future Considerations. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 126:11-19. [PMID: 34740132 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2021.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant condition that affects multiple body systems. Disruption of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway results in abnormal cell growth, proliferation, protein synthesis, and cell differentiation and migration in TSC. In the central nervous system, mTOR disruption is also believed to influence neuronal excitability and promote epileptogenesis. Epilepsy is the most common neurological manifestation of TSC and affects 80% to 90% of individuals with high rates of treatment resistance (up to 75%). The onset of epilepsy in the majority of individuals with TSC occurs before the age of two years, which is a critical time in neurodevelopment. Both medically refractory epilepsy and early-onset epilepsy are associated with intellectual disability in TSC, while seizure control and remission are associated with lower rates of cognitive impairment. Our current knowledge of the treatment of epilepsy in TSC has expanded immensely over the last decade. Several new therapies such as preemptive vigabatrin therapy in infants, cannabidiol, and mTOR inhibitors have emerged in recent years for the treatment of epilepsy in TSC. This review will provide clinicians with a comprehensive overview of the pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies available for the treatment of epilepsy related to TSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nabavi Nouri
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Zak
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, 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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Tong X, Wang X, Qin L, Zhou J, Guan Y, Teng P, Wang J, Yang Y, Li T, Luan G. Vagus nerve stimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy induced by tuberous sclerosis complex. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 126:108431. [PMID: 34883463 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated the dynamic and long-term efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) induced by tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). In addition, the impact of VNS on cognition and emotion after a one-year follow-up was evaluated. METHODS A total of 17 patients diagnosed with DRE induced by TSC were retrospectively recruited between 2008 and 2019. Dynamic changes in seizure frequency were observed in the responders (≥50% reduction of seizure frequency at last follow-up) and non-responders. Clinical characteristics and seizure outcomes were comprehensively analyzed to determine factors associated with seizure outcomes. The Wechsler intelligence scale was applied in a subgroup of six pediatric patients, whereas the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) were assessed in a subgroup of nine patients to determine the impact of VNS therapy on cognitive performance and emotional state. RESULTS The follow-up duration for the 17 patients who underwent VNS treatment ranged from 0.5 to 10 years (mean ± SD: 4.1 ± 3.2 years). Monthly seizures decreased significantly from three months to four years post-treatment (p < 0.05). At the last follow-up, 70.6% of the patients achieved at least a 50% reduction in seizure frequency, and three patients were completely seizure free. Comparatively, non-responder patients experienced deterioration of seizure frequency after the first year. Notably, after one-year follow-up the mean standard score of full-scale intelligence quotient increased from 67.33 to 69.5 (p = 0.078) while the mean, standard score of SDS decreased from 49.22 to 45.67 (p = 0.003) compared to preoperative neuropsychological evaluation results. CONCLUSION VNS is a safe and effective treatment for patients with DRE caused by TSC. Although early outcomes were encouraging, a follow-up of at least one-year was required to predict long-term outcomes in patients receiving VNS treatment. Moreover, VNS may improve depressive mood in patients with DRE caused by TSC. Further investigations are needed to validate the present results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuezhi Tong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Xiongfei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy, Beijing 100093, China; Epilepsy Institute, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Lang Qin
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing 100093, China; Center for MRI Research, Peking University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Yuguang Guan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Pengfei Teng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Neurology, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Yujiao Yang
- Department of Neurology, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Tianfu Li
- Epilepsy Institute, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100093, China; Department of Neurology, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Guoming Luan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100093, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Epilepsy, Beijing 100093, China; Epilepsy Institute, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing 100093, China.
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Lo SH, Marshall J, Skrobanski H, Lloyd A. Patient and Caregiver Health State Utilities in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex. PHARMACOECONOMICS - OPEN 2022; 6:105-121. [PMID: 34524653 PMCID: PMC8441242 DOI: 10.1007/s41669-021-00296-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystem disorder often associated with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Cost-effectiveness analysis for new antiseizure medications typically requires health state utilities (HSUs) that reflect the burden of a given condition. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to estimate HSUs, with a focus on valuing the impact of seizure type and seizure frequency on health-related quality of life (HRQL) for patients with TSC and their caregivers. METHODS A targeted literature review and qualitative research with healthcare professionals and caregivers informed the development of health state vignettes describing the experience of living with TSC or caring for a child with TSC. Vignettes were evaluated in interviews with the UK general population using the time trade-off (TTO) method. RESULTS Sixteen vignettes were developed describing patient HRQL (n = 8) and caregiver HRQL (n = 8). Two hundred interviews were conducted via online video calls due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Two hundred participants evaluated the patient (n = 100) and caregiver (n = 100) health state vignettes. Estimated utility scores varied consistently according to seizure type and seizure frequency. Patient TTO utility scores ranged between -0.234 (highest seizure frequency and multiple seizure types) and 0.725 (seizure-free state). Caregiver TTO utility scores ranged from 0.221 to 0.905. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the substantial burden of living with TSC and caring for a child with TSC. Patient and caregiver burden was greater for generalised versus focal seizures. The burden was greatest for a combination of both seizure types and worsened with increasing seizure frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siu Hing Lo
- Acaster Lloyd Consulting Ltd, 16 Upper Woburn Place, Bloomsbury, London, WC1H 0BS, UK.
| | - Jade Marshall
- GW Pharma Ltd, 1 Cavendish Place, Marylebone, London, W1G 0QF, UK
| | - Hanna Skrobanski
- Acaster Lloyd Consulting Ltd, 16 Upper Woburn Place, Bloomsbury, London, WC1H 0BS, UK
| | - Andrew Lloyd
- Acaster Lloyd Consulting Ltd, 16 Upper Woburn Place, Bloomsbury, London, WC1H 0BS, UK
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Thiele EA, Bebin EM, Filloux F, Kwan P, Loftus R, Sahebkar F, Sparagana S, Wheless J. Long-term cannabidiol treatment for seizures in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex: An open-label extension trial. Epilepsia 2021; 63:426-439. [PMID: 34957550 PMCID: PMC9305454 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of add‐on cannabidiol (CBD) in patients with seizures associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) in the open‐label extension (OLE) of the randomized, placebo‐controlled phase 3 trial GWPCARE6 (NCT02544763). Results of an interim (February 2019 data cut) analysis are reported. Methods Patients who completed the randomized trial enrolled to receive CBD (Epidiolex® in the United States; Epidyolex® in the EU; 100 mg/mL oral solution). The initial target dose was 25 mg/kg/day, which, based on response and tolerability, could be decreased or increased up to 50 mg/kg/day. The primary end point was safety. Key secondary end points included percentage reduction in TSC‐associated (countable focal and generalized) seizures, responder rates, and Subject/Caregiver Global Impression of Change (S/CGIC). Results Of 201 patients who completed the randomized phase, 199 (99%) entered the OLE. Mean age was 13 years (range, 1–57). At the time of analysis, 5% of patients had completed treatment, 20% had withdrawn, and 75% were ongoing. One‐year retention rate was 79%. Median treatment time was 267 days (range, 18–910) at a 27 mg/kg/day mean modal dose. Most patients (92%) had an adverse event (AE). Most common AEs were diarrhea (42%), seizure (22%), and decreased appetite (20%). AEs led to permanent discontinuation in 6% of patients. There was one death that was deemed treatment unrelated by the investigator. Elevated liver transaminases occurred in 17 patients (9%) patients; 12 were taking valproate. Median percentage reductions in seizure frequency (12‐week windows across 48 weeks) were 54%–68%. Seizure responder rates (≥50%, ≥75%, 100% reduction) were 53%–61%, 29%–45%, and 6%–11% across 12‐week windows for 48 weeks. Improvement on the S/CGIC scale was reported by 87% of patients/caregivers at 26 weeks. Significance In patients with TSC, long‐term add‐on CBD treatment was well tolerated and sustainably reduced seizures through 48 weeks, with most patients/caregivers reporting global improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E Martina Bebin
- University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Francis Filloux
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Patrick Kwan
- Monash University and the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Steven Sparagana
- Scottish Rite for Children and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - James Wheless
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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12
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Schubert-Bast S, Strzelczyk A. Review of the treatment options for epilepsy in tuberous sclerosis complex: towards precision medicine. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2021; 14:17562864211031100. [PMID: 34349839 PMCID: PMC8290505 DOI: 10.1177/17562864211031100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes, which encode proteins that antagonise the mammalian isoform of the target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) - a key mediator of cell growth and metabolism. TSC is characterised by the development of benign tumours in multiple organs, together with neurological manifestations including epilepsy and TSC-associated neuropsychiatric disorders (TAND). Epilepsy occurs frequently and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality; however, the management is challenging due to the intractable nature of the seizures. Preventative epilepsy treatment is a key aim, especially as patients with epilepsy may be at a higher risk of developing severe cognitive and behavioural impairment. Vigabatrin given preventatively reduces the risk and severity of epilepsy although the benefits for TAND are inconclusive. These promising results could pave the way for evaluating other treatments in a preventative capacity, especially those that may address the underlying pathophysiology of TSC, including everolimus, cannabidiol and the ketogenic diet (KD). Everolimus is an mTOR inhibitor approved for the adjunctive treatment of refractory TSC-associated seizures that has demonstrated significant reductions in seizure frequency compared with placebo, improvements that were sustained after 2 years of treatment. Highly purified cannabidiol, recently approved in the US as Epidiolex® for TSC-associated seizures in patients ⩾1 years of age, and the KD, may also participate in the regulation of the mTOR pathway. This review focusses on the pivotal clinical evidence surrounding these potential targeted therapies that may form the foundation of precision medicine for TSC-associated epilepsy, as well as other current treatments including anti-seizure drugs, vagus nerve stimulation and surgery. New future therapies are also discussed, together with the potential for preventative treatment with targeted therapies. Due to advances in understanding the molecular genetics and pathophysiology, TSC represents a prototypic clinical syndrome for studying epileptogenesis and the impact of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, Frankfurt am Main, 60528, Germany
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13
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Jain P, Arya R. Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Seizure Outcomes in Pediatric Refractory Epilepsy: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Neurology 2021; 96:1041-1051. [PMID: 33849993 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000012030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We synthesized evidence for effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as adjuvant therapy in pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) by obtaining pooled estimates for seizure outcomes and analyzing their determinants. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched up to July 2019 for original research on VNS in pediatric (≤18 years of age) epilepsy. The primary outcome was 50% responder rate (50% RR), the proportion of patients with ≥50% seizure reduction, at the last reported follow-up. Other outcomes included a 50% RR and proportion of seizure-free patients at additional reported time points. A random-effects meta-analysis with restricted maximum likelihood estimation was performed to obtain pooled effect estimates. Meta-regression using multiple linear models was performed to obtain determinants of seizure outcomes and sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS A total of 101 studies were included. The pooled prevalence estimates for a 50% RR and seizure freedom at last follow-up (mean 2.54 years) were 56.4% (95% confidence intervals [CIs] 52.4, 60.4) and 11.6% (95% CI 9.6, 13.9), respectively. Fewer antiseizure medications (ASMs) tried before VNS and later age at onset of seizures were associated with better seizure outcomes following VNS implantation. An effect of sex distribution of studies on long-term outcomes and a potential publication bias for short-term outcomes were also observed. CONCLUSION Pooled evidence supports possible effectiveness of VNS in pediatric DRE, although complete seizure freedom is less common. Early referral (fewer trials of ASMs) may be a modifiable factor for desirable seizure outcomes with VNS from a clinical perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puneet Jain
- From the Epilepsy Program (P.J.), Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Pediatric Neurology (P.J.), Department of Pediatrics, Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women and Children, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (R.A.), Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; and Department of Pediatrics (R.A.), University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Ravindra Arya
- From the Epilepsy Program (P.J.), Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Pediatric Neurology (P.J.), Department of Pediatrics, Danat Al Emarat Hospital for Women and Children, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (R.A.), Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH; and Department of Pediatrics (R.A.), University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH.
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14
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Toffa DH, Touma L, El Meskine T, Bouthillier A, Nguyen DK. Learnings from 30 years of reported efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for epilepsy treatment: A critical review. Seizure 2020; 83:104-123. [PMID: 33120323 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Three decades after its introduction as an adjuvant therapeutic option in the management of selective drug-resistant epilepsy cases (DRE), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) retains growing interest. An implantable device was first approved for epilepsy in Europe in 1994 and in the United States (US) in 1997. Subsequent modifications improved the safety and the efficacy of the system. The most recent application of vagal neurostimulation is represented by transcutaneous devices that are claimed to have strong therapeutic potential. In this review, we sought to analyze the most meaningful available data describing the indications, safety and efficacy of the different approaches of VNS in clinical practice. Therefore, we identified studies reporting VNS efficacy and/or safety in epilepsy and its comorbidities from January 1990 to February 2020 from various databases including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, US government databases and VNS manufacturer published resources. In general, VNS efficacy becomes optimal around the sixth month of treatment and a 50-100 % seizure frequency reduction is achieved in approximately 45-65 % of the patients. However, some clinically relevant differences have been reported with specific factors such as epilepsy etiology or type, patient age as well as the delay of VNS therapy onset. VNS efficacy on seizure frequency has been demonstrated in both children and adults, in lesional and non-lesional cases, in focal and generalized epilepsies, on both seizures and epilepsy comorbidities. Regarding the latter, VNS can lead to an improvement of about 25-35 % in depression scores, 35 % in anxiety scores and 25 % in mood assessment scores. If non-invasive devices are undeniably safer, their efficacy is limited due to the scarcity of large cohort studies and the disparity of methodological approaches (study design and stimulation parameters). Overall, we believe that there is a progress margin for improving the safety of implantable devices and, above all, the effectiveness of the various VNS approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dènahin Hinnoutondji Toffa
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada; CHUM Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Lahoud Touma
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Alain Bouthillier
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Dang Khoa Nguyen
- Department of Neurology, CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada; CHUM Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
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Liu S, Yu T, Guan Y, Zhang K, Ding P, Chen L, Shan Y, Guo Q, Liu Q, Yao Y, Yang M, Zhang S, Lin Y, Zhao R, Mao Z, Zhang J, Zhang C, Zhang R, Yang Z, Qian R, Li Y, Zhang G, Yuan L, Yang W, Tian H, Zhang H, Li W, Zhang X, Yin J, Guo Y, Zou L, Qin J, Fang F, Wang X, Ge M, Liang S. Resective epilepsy surgery in tuberous sclerosis complex: a nationwide multicentre retrospective study from China. Brain 2020; 143:570-581. [PMID: 31953931 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At least 50% of patients with tuberous sclerosis complex present with intractable epilepsy; for these patients, resective surgery is a treatment option. Here, we report a nationwide multicentre retrospective study and analyse the long-term seizure and neuropsychological outcomes of epilepsy surgery in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex. There were 364 patients who underwent epilepsy surgery in the study. Patients' clinical data, postoperative seizure outcomes at 1-, 4-, and 10-year follow-ups, preoperative and postoperative intelligence quotients, and quality of life at 1-year follow-up were collected. The patients' ages at surgery were 10.35 ± 7.70 years (range: 0.5-47). The percentage of postoperative seizure freedom was 71% (258/364) at 1-year, 60% (118/196) at 4-year, and 51% (36/71) at 10-year follow-up. Influence factors of postoperative seizure freedom were the total removal of epileptogenic tubers and the presence of outstanding tuber on MRI at 1- and 4-year follow-ups. Furthermore, monthly seizure (versus daily seizure) was also a positive influence factor for postoperative seizure freedom at 1-year follow-up. The presence of an outstanding tuber on MRI was the only factor influencing seizure freedom at 10-year follow-up. Postoperative quality of life and intelligence quotient improvements were found in 43% (112/262) and 28% (67/242) of patients, respectively. Influence factors of postoperative quality of life and intelligence quotient improvement were postoperative seizure freedom and preoperative low intelligence quotient. The percentage of seizure freedom in the tuberectomy group was significantly lower compared to the tuberectomy plus and lobectomy groups at 1- and 4-year follow-ups. In conclusion, this study, the largest nationwide multi-centre study on resective epilepsy surgery, resulted in improved seizure outcomes and quality of life and intelligence quotient improvements in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex. Seizure freedom was often achieved in patients with an outstanding tuber on MRI, total removal of epileptogenic tubers, and tuberectomy plus. Quality of life and intelligence quotient improvements were frequently observed in patients with postoperative seizure freedom and preoperative low intelligence quotient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuguang Guan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Western China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongzhi Shan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Guangdong Sanjiu Brain Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiamen Hongai Hospital, Xiamen, China
| | - Meihua Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaohui Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanxiang Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqi Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Juncheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical College, Jining, China
| | - Chunqing Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiquan Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central Southern University, Changsha, China
| | - Ruobing Qian
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yunlin Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children Hospital, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Guangming Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Aviation General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weidong Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Tian
- Department of Neurosurgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenling Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xinwei Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Yin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yanwu Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liping Zou
- Pediatrics Department, First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiong Qin
- Pediatrics Department, Beijing People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Fang
- Neurology Department, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Neurology Department, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Ge
- Neurosurgery Department, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuli Liang
- Functional Neurosurgery Department, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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16
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Zheng H, Chengcheng W, Bin J, Chaochao W, Hongying Z, Wenqiang G, Bin L, Hailong T, Zhigang W. Deep Brain Stimulation of Anterior Thalamic Nucleus for Treatment of Patient with Tuberous Sclerosis-Related Refractory Epilepsy. World Neurosurg 2020; 138:141-144. [PMID: 32169621 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2020.03.010] [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: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuromodulation is recommended for patients with refractory tuberous sclerosis related epilepsy (TRE) who are unable to localize epileptogenic nodules after comprehensive preoperative evaluation or for patients and families who do not agree to resection. CASE DESCRIPTION We report a patient with refractory TRE who received deep brain stimulation of anterior thalamic nucleus (ANT-DBS) and achieved a satisfactory response. To our knowledge, this is the first case of TRE being treated with ANT-DBS. A 22-year-old male was admitted to the hospital for refractory TRE seeking surgical treatment. Seizures were mainly manifested by deep temporal and frontal lobe epilepsy and suspected to originate in the limbic system. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed extensive potentially epileptogenic nodules in the brain lacking significant nodules. Scalp electroencephalogram showed a comprehensive, bilateral synchronous low-voltage rapid rhythm, unable to localize seizure origin. We performed bilateral ANT-DBS according to the preoperative evaluation, and the frequency and intensity of seizures were significantly reduced after the 15-month follow-up (P <0.05, Student's t-test). Our case extends the therapeutic indications of ANT-DBS to a certain extent, providing a neuromodulation alternative to vagus nerve stimulation for patients with TRE who are unsuitable candidates or refuse resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Wang Chengcheng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Jiang Bin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Wang Chaochao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Zhang Hongying
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Guo Wenqiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Liu Bin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Tian Hailong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China
| | - Wang Zhigang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao), Qingdao, P.R. China.
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17
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Nabbout R, Belousova E, Benedik MP, Carter T, Cottin V, Curatolo P, Dahlin M, D´Amato L, d'Augères GB, de Vries PJ, Ferreira JC, Feucht M, Fladrowski C, Hertzberg C, Jozwiak S, Lawson JA, Macaya A, Marques R, O'Callaghan F, Qin J, Sander V, Sauter M, Shah S, Takahashi Y, Touraine R, Youroukos S, Zonnenberg B, Jansen A, Kingswood JC. Epilepsy in tuberous sclerosis complex: Findings from the TOSCA Study. Epilepsia Open 2019; 4:73-84. [PMID: 30868117 PMCID: PMC6398114 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present the baseline data of the international TuberOus SClerosis registry to increase disease Awareness (TOSCA) with emphasis on the characteristics of epilepsies associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). METHODS Retrospective and prospective patients' data on all aspects of TSC were collected from multiple countries worldwide. Epilepsy variables included seizure type, age at onset, type of treatment, and treatment outcomes and association with genotype, seizures control, and intellectual disability. As for noninterventional registries, the study protocol did not specify any particular clinical instruments, laboratory investigations, or intervention. Evaluations included those required for diagnosis and management following local best practice. RESULTS Epilepsy was reported in 83.6% of patients (1852/2216) at baseline; 38.9% presented with infantile spasms and 67.5% with focal seizures. The mean age at diagnosis of infantile spasms was 0.4 year (median <1 year; range <1-30 years) and at diagnosis of focal seizures was 2.7 years (median 1 year; range <1-66 years). A total of 1469 patients (79.3%) were diagnosed with epilepsy <2 years. The rate of infantile spasms was higher in patients with a TSC 2 mutation than in patients with a TSC1 mutation (47.3% vs 23%). ɣ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic drugs were the most common treatment modality for both infantile spasms (78.7%) and focal seizures (65.5%). Infantile spasms and focal seizures were controlled in 76.3% and 58.2% of patients, respectively. Control of seizures was associated with lower rates of intellectual disability in both groups. SIGNIFICANCE This registry reports the largest international cohort of patients with TSC. Findings confirmed the typical onset pattern of infantile spasms and other focal seizures in the first 2 years of life, and the high rates of infantile spasms in patients with TSC2 mutation. Our results underscored the occurrence of focal seizures at all ages, including an onset that preceded emergence of infantile spasms. Seizure control was shown to be associated with lower rates of intellectual disability but did not preclude the presence of intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima Nabbout
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyNecker Enfants Malades HospitalParis Descartes UniversityParisFrance
| | - Elena Belousova
- Research and Clinical Institute of PediatricsPirogov Russian National Research Medical UniversityMoscowRussian Federation
| | | | - Tom Carter
- TSA Tuberous Sclerosis AssociationNottinghamUK
| | - Vincent Cottin
- Hôpital Louis PradelClaude Bernard University Lyon 1LyonFrance
| | | | | | | | | | - Petrus J. de Vries
- Division of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | | | - Martha Feucht
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent MedicineMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Carla Fladrowski
- Tuberous Sclerosis Association ONLUSMilanItaly
- European Tuberous Sclerosis Complex AssociationIn den BirkenDatteinGermany
| | | | - Sergiusz Jozwiak
- Department of Child NeurologyWarsaw Medical UniversityWarsawPuerto Rico
- Department of Neurology and EpileptologyThe Children's Memorial Health InstituteWarsawPuerto Rico
| | - John A. Lawson
- The Tuberous Sclerosis Multidisciplinary Management ClinicSydney Children's HospitalRandwickNSWAustralia
| | | | - Ruben Marques
- Novartis Farma S.p.A.OriggioItaly
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED)University of LeonLeónSpain
| | | | - Jiong Qin
- Department of PediatricsPeking University People's Hospital (PKUPH)BeijingChina
| | | | | | - Seema Shah
- Novartis Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.HyderabadIndia
| | - Yukitoshi Takahashi
- National Epilepsy CenterShizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological DisordersNHOShizuokaJapan
| | | | | | | | - Anna Jansen
- Pediatric Neurology UnitDepartment of PediatricsUZ Brussel VUBBrusselsBelgium
| | - John C. Kingswood
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research CentreSt Georges University of LondonLondonUK
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18
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Abstract
Investigators from the Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) Autism Center of Excellence Research conducted two concurrent prospective longitudinal studies to analyze the timing and pattern of clinical presenting symptoms of TSC in infants to facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment in this specific population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen L Nelson
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA
| | - Brittani M Wild
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA
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19
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Canevini MP, Kotulska-Jozwiak K, Curatolo P, La Briola F, Peron A, Słowińska M, Strzelecka J, Vignoli A, Jóźwiak S. Current concepts on epilepsy management in tuberous sclerosis complex. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2018; 178:299-308. [PMID: 30255982 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant neurocutaneous disease affecting approximately 1 in 6,000 people, and represents one of the most common genetic causes of epilepsy. Epilepsy affects 90% of the patients and appears in the first 2 years of life in the majority of them. Early onset of epilepsy in the first 12 months of life is associated with high risk of cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric problems including autism. Prenatal or early infantile diagnosis of TSC, before the onset of epilepsy, provides a unique opportunity to monitor EEG before the onset of clinical seizures, thus enabling early intervention in the process of epileptogenesis. In this review, we discuss the current status of knowledge on epileptogenesis in TSC, and present recommendations of American and European experts in the field of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Paola Canevini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit - Epilepsy Center, San Paolo Hospital, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Curatolo
- Department of Pediatric Neuropsychiatry, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca La Briola
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit - Epilepsy Center, San Paolo Hospital, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Peron
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit - Epilepsy Center, San Paolo Hospital, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Monika Słowińska
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Pediatric Neurology, Warsaw Medical University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jolanta Strzelecka
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Warsaw Medical University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aglaia Vignoli
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit - Epilepsy Center, San Paolo Hospital, Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sergiusz Jóźwiak
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Pediatric Neurology, Warsaw Medical University, Warsaw, Poland
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Management of epilepsy associated with tuberous sclerosis complex: Updated clinical recommendations. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:738-748. [PMID: 29880258 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) are at very high risk for developing epilepsy, and the majority experience seizure onset during the first year of life. Early targeted interventions increase the probability of seizure-freedom and may protect neurodevelopment. In 2012, clinical recommendations for the management of epilepsy in patients with TSC were published by a panel of European experts. Since that time novel studies, reports, and expert opinions in preclinical and clinical TSC-related sciences prompted the need for updated recommendations, including epileptogenesis in TSC, the potential role of predictive biomarkers, the possible benefits of presymptomatic diagnosis and preventive treatment, and new treatment options including mTOR inhibitors. A reconvened panel reviewed the current literature to answer specific questions and five panelists discussed the findings, followed by a general discussion during which all issues were debated to achieve consensus regarding recommendations. A draft manuscript based on these discussions and recommendations was then circulated several times among the panelists, who added their own comments. All the panelists/authors agreed with the final manuscript, which was then submitted for publication. The panel concluded that the need for early diagnosis of TSC-associated seizures is now established, electroencephalographic monitoring has good predictive value for epilepsy before seizure onset in TSC, and, until conclusive data from the EPISTOP trial are available, administration of vigabatrin may be considered in children with subclinical epileptiform EEG discharges. The panel also supported the role of adjunctive everolimus for TSC-associated drug-refractory seizures and emphasized the necessity of early surgical evaluation.
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Curatolo P, Moavero R, van Scheppingen J, Aronica E. mTOR dysregulation and tuberous sclerosis-related epilepsy. Expert Rev Neurother 2018; 18:185-201. [DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2018.1428562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Curatolo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Romina Moavero
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
- Child Neurology Unit, Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Department, “Bambino Gesù” Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Jackelien van Scheppingen
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), The Netherlands
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Abstract
While open surgical resection for medically refractory epilepsy remains the gold standard in current neurosurgical practice, modern techniques have targeted areas for improvement over open surgical resection. This review focuses on how a variety of these new techniques are attempting to address these various limitations. Stereotactic electroencephalography offers the possibility of localizing deep epileptic foci, improving upon subdural grid placement which limits localization to neocortical regions. Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) and stereotactic radiosurgery can minimally or non-invasively ablate specific regions of interest, with near real-time feedback for laser interstitial thermal therapy. Finally, neurostimulation offers the possibility of seizure reduction without needing to ablate or resect any tissue. However, because these techniques are still being evaluated in current practice, there are no evidence-based guidelines for their use, and more research is required to fully evaluate their proper role in the current management of medically refractory epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A McGovern
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 710 W. 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Garrett P Banks
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 710 W. 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Guy M McKhann
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Neurological Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, 710 W. 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
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Sourbron J, Klinkenberg S, Kessels A, Schelhaas HJ, Lagae L, Majoie M. Vagus Nerve Stimulation in children: A focus on intellectual disability. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2017; 21:427-440. [PMID: 28188025 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) can be an efficacious add-on treatment in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy, who are not eligible for surgery. Evidence of VNS efficacy in children with intellectual disability (ID) is scarce. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to review all available VNS data in the pediatric population (≤18 years old) and focus on the subpopulation with ID since appropriate treatment of these children is often challenging and complex. METHODS Cochrane, EMBASE, PubMed and MEDLINE were used to collect all research associated to VNS and ID (or synonyms) leading to a total of 37 studies. Seven studies showed the results of patients with ID and those without separately; thereby only these studies were included in the VNS meta-analysis. RESULTS Our meta-analysis showed that VNS was less effective in pediatric epilepsy patients with ID compared to those without ID (Mantel-Haenszel meta-analysis; p = 0.028, OR 0.18 (CI 95% 0.039-0.84)). However, there were no prospective controlled studies. Numerous studies reported quality of life (QoL) improvements in this subpopulation. The most common adverse events were transient and well tolerated. Side effects on cognition and behavior were not reported. DISCUSSION These results might be a reason to consider VNS early on in the treatment of this subgroup. The significantly greater amount of retrospective studies, differences in follow-up (FU), lack of control data, heterogeneous series and limited number of patients could have biased the outcome measurements. Hence, current data do not exclude VNS for children with drug-resistant epilepsy and ID but should be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Sourbron
- Laboratory for Molecular Biodiscovery, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sylvia Klinkenberg
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Alfons Kessels
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Lieven Lagae
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Section Pediatric Neurology, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marian Majoie
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Kempenhaeghe, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a neurocutaneous syndrome that can present at any age and can affect multiple organ systems. This disorder is usually identified in infants and children based on characteristic skin lesions, seizures, and cellular overgrowth or hamartomas in the heart, brain, and kidneys. Tuberous sclerosis complex is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in either the TSC1 or TSC2 gene leading to dysfunction of hamartin or tuberin, respectively. Hamartin and tuberin form a protein complex that helps regulate cellular hyperplasia. Accurate diagnosis is essential in implementing appropriate surveillance and treatment to patients with this disorder. Specific guidelines for diagnosis, surveillance, and management have been proposed by the International Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Consensus Group. Treatment of tuberous sclerosis complex is in part symptomatic; however, for certain clinical manifestations, specific treatments may be indicated. [Pediatr Ann. 2017;46(4):e166-e171.].
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Curatolo P, Bjørnvold M, Dill PE, Ferreira JC, Feucht M, Hertzberg C, Jansen A, Jóźwiak S, Kingswood JC, Kotulska K, Macaya A, Moavero R, Nabbout R, Zonnenberg BA. The Role of mTOR Inhibitors in the Treatment of Patients with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: Evidence-based and Expert Opinions. Drugs 2016; 76:551-65. [PMID: 26927950 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-016-0552-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder arising from mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes. The resulting over-activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling pathway leaves patients with TSC susceptible to the growth of non-malignant tumours in multiple organs. Previously, surgery was the main therapeutic option for TSC. However, pharmacological therapy with mTOR inhibitors such as everolimus and sirolimus is now emerging as an alternate approach. Everolimus and sirolimus have already been shown to be effective in treating subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) and renal angiomyolipoma (AML), and everolimus is currently being evaluated in treating TSC-related epilepsy. In November 2013 a group of European experts convened to discuss the current options and practical considerations for treating various manifestations of TSC. This article provides evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of SEGA, TSC-related epilepsy and renal AML, with a focus on where mTOR inhibitor therapy may be considered alongside other treatment options. Safety considerations regarding mTOR inhibitor therapy are also reviewed. With evidence of beneficial effects in neurological and non-neurological TSC manifestations, mTOR inhibitors may represent a systemic treatment for TSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Curatolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Marit Bjørnvold
- National Center for Rare Epilepsy-related Disorders, National Center of Epilepsy, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Patricia E Dill
- Department of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, University Children's Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,INSERM Unité 1511, Paris, France
| | - José Carlos Ferreira
- Neuro Pediatra, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Ocidental, Hospital São Francisco Xavier, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Martha Feucht
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Hertzberg
- Diagnose und Behandlungszentrum für Kinder und Jugendliche, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Jansen
- Pediatric Neurology Unit-UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sergiusz Jóźwiak
- Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - J Christopher Kingswood
- Sussex Renal Unit, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, UK.,The Trafford Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, UK
| | - Katarzyna Kotulska
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alfons Macaya
- Servei de Neurologia Pediàtrica, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Romina Moavero
- Department of Neurosciences, Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Tor Vergata University Hospital of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rima Nabbout
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, University Paris Descartes, Paris, France
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Neuromodulation Therapy with Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Intractable Epilepsy: A 2-Year Efficacy Analysis Study in Patients under 12 Years of Age. EPILEPSY RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2016; 2016:9709056. [PMID: 26977314 PMCID: PMC4764724 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9709056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
To study the efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy as an adjunctive treatment for intractable epilepsy in patients under 12 years of age, we analyzed 2-year postimplant data of 35 consecutive patients. Of the 35 patients, 18 (51.4%) at 6 months, 18 (51.4%) at 12 months, and 21 (60.1%) at 24 months showed ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency (responders). Although incremental seizure freedom was noted, no patient remained seizure-free throughout the 3 study periods. Partial response (≥50% seizure reduction in 2 or less study periods) was seen in 8 (22.9%) patients. Twelve patients (34.3%) were nonresponders. Out of 29 patients with primary generalized epilepsy, 20 (68.9%) and, out of 6 patients with focal epilepsy, 3 (50%) had ≥50% seizure control in at least one study period. No major complications or side effects requiring discontinuation of VNS therapy were encountered. We conclude that (1) patients with intractable primary generalized epilepsy respond better to VNS therapy, (2) cumulative effect of neuromodulation with improving responder rate to seizure freedom with continuation of VNS therapy is noted, and (3) VNS therapy is safe and is well tolerated in children receiving implant under 12 years of age.
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Curatolo P, Moavero R, de Vries PJ. Neurological and neuropsychiatric aspects of tuberous sclerosis complex. Lancet Neurol 2015; 14:733-45. [PMID: 26067126 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(15)00069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 365] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis (also known as tuberous sclerosis complex [TSC]) is a multisystem genetic disorder that affects almost every organ in the body. Mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes lead to disruption of the TSC1-TSC2 intracellular protein complex, causing overactivation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) protein complex. The surveillance and management guidelines and clinical criteria for tuberous sclerosis were revised in 2012, and mTOR inhibitors are now recommended as treatment options for subependymal giant cell astrocytomas and renal angiomyolipomas-two common features of the disease. However, most morbidity and mortality caused by tuberous sclerosis is associated with neurological and neuropsychiatric manifestations. Treatment of epilepsy associated with tuberous sclerosis remains a major challenge, with more than 60% of patients having ongoing seizures. Tuberous-sclerosis-associated neuropsychiatric disorders (TAND) are multilevel and occur in most individuals with the disorder, but are rarely assessed and treated. Clinical trials of mTOR inhibitors to treat seizures and TAND are underway. Management of the neurological and neuropsychiatric manifestations of the disorder should be coordinated with treatment of other organ systems. In view of the age-related expression of manifestations from infancy to adulthood, continuity of clinical care and ongoing monitoring is paramount, and particular attention is needed to plan transition of patient care from childhood to adult services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Curatolo
- Neuroscience Department, Child Neurology and Psychiatry Division, University Hospital of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Romina Moavero
- Neuroscience Department, Child Neurology and Psychiatry Division, University Hospital of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; Neuroscience Department, Child Neurology Division, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Petrus J de Vries
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Curatolo P. Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) in tuberous sclerosis complex-associated epilepsy. Pediatr Neurol 2015; 52:281-9. [PMID: 25591831 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2014.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex is a multiorgan disease resulting from a mutation of one of two TSC genes. The two gene products form a functional complex that regulates the mTOR signaling pathway (mTOR initially represented mammalian target of rapamycin, but increasingly the term mechanistic target of rapamycin is used to reflect the ubiquitous occurrence of mTOR). Epilepsy is the most common neurological symptom of tuberous sclerosis complex, occurring in 80% to 90% of affected individuals over the course of their lifetimes and causing significant morbidity and mortality. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is intricately involved in multiple cellular functions--including protein synthesis, cell growth and proliferation, and synaptic plasticity--which may influence neuronal excitability and precipitate epileptogenesis. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have increased interest in the potential role of mTOR inhibitors for the treatment of tuberous sclerosis complex-related epilepsy. METHODS Medline and PubMed database searches were used to identify relevant studies and other information on tuberous sclerosis complex-related epilepsies, the mTOR pathway, and current advances in treatment approaches. RESULTS Although current management strategies that provide symptomatic relief are effective at reducing the frequency of seizures in individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex, there is further room for the exploration of therapies that directly address hyperactive mTOR signaling--the underlying etiology of the disease. The role of the antiepileptic effect of mTOR inhibition was first demonstrated in knockout TSC1 mouse models. Additionally, several case studies demonstrated a positive effect on seizure frequency and severity in patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy. In a phase 1/2 clinical trial with 28 patients, clinically relevant reduction in overall seizure frequency was documented in individuals treated with the mTOR inhibitor everolimus. In a phase 3 trial evaluating the role of everolimus in subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, seizures were a secondary end point. Because the median seizure frequency was zero in this study, the analysis was inconclusive. CONCLUSION Various preclinical models provide substantial evidence for the role of mTOR inhibition in the treatment of epilepsy in individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex. Preliminary clinical studies provide supportive evidence for a role of mTOR inhibition in the management of tuberous sclerosis complex-associated epilepsy and pave the way for new randomized placebo-controlled studies. This article reviews current treatment recommendations for the management of tuberous sclerosis complex-associated epilepsy as well as the rationale and evidence to support the use of mTOR inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Curatolo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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Yu C, Ramgopal S, Libenson M, Abdelmoumen I, Powell C, Remy K, Madsen JR, Rotenberg A, Loddenkemper T. Outcomes of vagal nerve stimulation in a pediatric population: A single center experience. Seizure 2014; 23:105-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2013] [Revised: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Wang S, Fallah A. Optimal management of seizures associated with tuberous sclerosis complex: current and emerging options. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2014; 10:2021-30. [PMID: 25364257 PMCID: PMC4211915 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s51789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Seizures are clinically significant manifestations associated with 79%-90% of patients with tuberous sclerosis complex. Often occurring within the first year of life in the form of infantile spasms, seizures interfere with neuropsychiatric, social, and cognitive development and carry significant individual and societal consequences. Prompt identification and treatment of seizures is an important focus in the overall management of tuberous sclerosis complex patients. Medical management, either after seizure onset or prophylactically in infants with electroencephalographic abnormalities, is considered first-line therapy. Vigabatrin and adrenocorticotropic hormone have emerged over the past few decades as mainstay pharmacologic modalities. Furthermore, emerging research on mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors demonstrated promise for the management of seizures and subependymal giant cell astrocytoma. For appropriate surgical candidates with an epileptogenic zone associated with one or more glioneuronal hamartomas, ideally in noneloquent cortex, resective surgery can be considered, which provides a cure in 56% of patients. For medically refractory patients who do not meet criteria for curative surgery, palliative surgical approaches focused on reducing seizure burden, in the form of corpus callosotomy and vagus nerve stimulation, are alternative management options. Lastly, the ketogenic diet, a reemerging therapy based on the anticonvulsant effects of ketone bodies, can be utilized independently or in conjunction with other treatment modalities for the management of difficult-to-treat seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aria Fallah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Miami Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA ; Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Evidence-based guideline update: vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of epilepsy: report of the guideline development subcommittee of the american academy of neurology. Epilepsy Curr 2013; 13:297-303. [PMID: 24348133 DOI: 10.5698/1535-7597-13.6.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the evidence since the 1999 assessment regarding efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for epilepsy, currently approved as adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in patients >12 years. METHODS We reviewed the literature and identified relevant published studies. We classified these studies according to the American Academy of Neurology evidence-based methodology. RESULTS VNS is associated with a >50% seizure reduction in 55% (95% confidence interval [CI] 50%-59%) of 470 children with partial or generalized epilepsy (13 Class III studies). VNS is associated with a >50% seizure reduction in 55% (95% CI 46%-64%) of 113 patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) (4 Class III studies). VNS is associated with an increase in ≥50% seizure frequency reduction rates of ~7% from 1 to 5 years postim-plantation (2 Class III studies). VNS is associated with a significant improvement in standard mood scales in 31 adults with epilepsy (2 Class III studies). Infection risk at the VNS implantation site in children is increased relative to that in adults (odds ratio 3.4, 95% CI 1.0-11.2). VNS is possibly effective for seizures (both partial and generalized) in children, for LGS-associated seizures, and for mood problems in adults with epilepsy. VNS may have improved efficacy over time. RECOMMENDATIONS VNS may be considered for seizures in children, for LGS-associated seizures, and for improving mood in adults with epilepsy (Level C). VNS may be considered to have improved efficacy over time (Level C). Children should be carefully monitored for site infection after VNS implantation. Neurology® 2013;81:1-7.
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Vignoli A, La Briola F, Turner K, Scornavacca G, Chiesa V, Zambrelli E, Piazzini A, Savini MN, Alfano RM, Canevini MP. Epilepsy in TSC: certain etiology does not mean certain prognosis. Epilepsia 2013; 54:2134-42. [PMID: 24304436 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Prevalence and long-term outcome of epilepsy in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is reported to be variable, and the reasons for this variability are still controversial. METHODS We reviewed the clinical characteristics of patients with TSC who were regularly followed since 2000 at the San Paolo Multidisciplinary Tuberous Sclerosis Centre in Milan, Italy. From patient charts we collected data about age at epilepsy onset, seizure frequency and seizure type, history of infantile spasms (IS), epileptic syndrome, evolution to refractory epilepsy or to seizure freedom and/or medication freedom, electroencephalography (EEG) features, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, cognitive outcome, and genetic background. KEY FINDINGS Among the 160 subjects (120 adults and 40 children), 116 (72.5%) had epilepsy: 57 (35.6%) were seizure-free, and 59 (36.9%) had drug-resistant epilepsy. Most seizure-free patients had a focal epilepsy (89.5%), with 54.4% of them drug resistant for a period of their lives. Epilepsy onset in the first year of life with IS and/or focal seizures was characteristic of the drug-resistant group of patients, as well as cognitive impairment and TSC2 mutation (p < 0.05). A small group of patients (7 patients, 4.4%) experienced a seizure only once; all of them had normal cognition. SIGNIFICANCE Although epilepsy management can be challenging in TSC, more than one third of patients had their seizures controlled: through monotherapy in 56% and by polytherapy in 32%. Moreover, 12% of the patients became seizure-free and were off medication. Identifying predictive features of epilepsy and cognitive outcome can ensure better management for patients with TSC and delineate genotype-phenotype correlations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aglaia Vignoli
- Neurology Unit, Epilepsy Center - Neurology Unit 2, San Paolo Hospital, DISS University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Morris GL, Gloss D, Buchhalter J, Mack KJ, Nickels K, Harden C. Evidence-based guideline update: vagus nerve stimulation for the treatment of epilepsy: report of the Guideline Development Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology 2013; 81:1453-9. [PMID: 23986299 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0b013e3182a393d1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the evidence since the 1999 assessment regarding efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for epilepsy, currently approved as adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in patients >12 years. METHODS We reviewed the literature and identified relevant published studies. We classified these studies according to the American Academy of Neurology evidence-based methodology. RESULTS VNS is associated with a >50% seizure reduction in 55% (95% confidence interval [CI] 50%-59%) of 470 children with partial or generalized epilepsy (13 Class III studies). VNS is associated with a >50% seizure reduction in 55% (95% CI 46%-64%) of 113 patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) (4 Class III studies). VNS is associated with an increase in ≥ 50% seizure frequency reduction rates of ≈ 7% from 1 to 5 years postimplantation (2 Class III studies). VNS is associated with a significant improvement in standard mood scales in 31 adults with epilepsy (2 Class III studies). Infection risk at the VNS implantation site in children is increased relative to that in adults (odds ratio 3.4, 95% CI 1.0-11.2). VNS is possibly effective for seizures (both partial and generalized) in children, for LGS-associated seizures, and for mood problems in adults with epilepsy. VNS may have improved efficacy over time. RECOMMENDATIONS VNS may be considered for seizures in children, for LGS-associated seizures, and for improving mood in adults with epilepsy (Level C). VNS may be considered to have improved efficacy over time (Level C). Children should be carefully monitored for site infection after VNS implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- George L Morris
- From the Aurora Epilepsy Center (G.L.M.), St. Luke's Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI; Barrow Neurologic Institute (D.G.), Phoenix, AZ; University of Calgary (J.B.), Canada; Mayo Clinic (K.J.M., K.N.), Rochester, MN; and Hofstra University North Shore-Long Island Jewish Medical College (C.H.), Great Neck, NY
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Zhang K, Hu WH, Zhang C, Meng FG, Chen N, Zhang JG. Predictors of seizure freedom after surgical management of tuberous sclerosis complex: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsy Res 2013; 105:377-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2013.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Revised: 12/31/2012] [Accepted: 02/27/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Cukiert A, Cukiert CM, Burattini JA, Lima AM, Forster CR, Baise C, Argentoni-Baldochi M. A Prospective Long-Term Study on the Outcome After Vagus Nerve Stimulation at Maximally Tolerated Current Intensity in a Cohort of Children With Refractory Secondary Generalized Epilepsy. Neuromodulation 2013; 16:551-6; discussion 556. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1525-1403.2012.00522.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 08/13/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Behavioural and cognitive effects during vagus nerve stimulation in children with intractable epilepsy - a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2013; 17:82-90. [PMID: 22878130 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2012.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Revised: 07/08/2012] [Accepted: 07/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS In addition to effects on seizure frequency in intractable epilepsy, multiple studies report benefits of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on behavioural outcomes and quality of life. The present study aims to investigate the effects of VNS on cognition, mood in general, depression, epilepsy-related restrictions and psychosocial adjustment in children with intractable epilepsy, as well as the relation between these effects and seizure reduction. METHODS We conducted a randomized, active-controlled, double-blinded, add-on study in 41 children (age 4-18) with medically refractory epilepsy. We performed cognitive and behavioural testing at baseline (12 weeks), at the end of the blinded phase (20 weeks) in children receiving either high-output or low-output (active control) stimulation, and at the end of the open label phase (19 weeks) with all children receiving high-output stimulation. Seizure frequency was recorded using seizure diaries. RESULTS VNS did not have a negative effect on cognition nor on psychosocial adjustment. At the end of the follow-up phase we noted an improvement of mood in general and the depression subscale for the entire group, unrelated to a reduction of seizure frequency. At the end of the blinded phase a ≥50% reduction of seizure frequency occurred in 16% of the high-stimulation group and 21% of the low-stimulation group. At the end of the open-label follow-up phase, 26% of the children experienced a seizure frequency reduction of 50% or more (responders). CONCLUSIONS VNS has additional beneficial effects in children with intractable epilepsy. As opposed to anti-epileptic drugs, there are no negative effects on cognition. Moreover, we observed an improvement of mood in general and depressed feelings in particular, irrespective of a reduction in seizure frequency. These beneficial effects should be taken into account when deciding whether to initiate or continue VNS treatment in these children.
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Abstract
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant multisystem disorder, characterized by the presence of hamartomatous lesions involving different organ systems, including the brain. Epilepsy is the most common presenting symptom, representing a major source of morbidity and mortality. Despite multiple antiepileptic drug combinations, in about two thirds of cases the patients present high-frequency drug-resistant epilepsy, and nonpharmacologic options may be considered. The aim of this work was to point out the current knowledge on epileptogenesis in TSC, the available medical therapies and diagnostic tools, and possible surgical strategies, with the intent to better understand the actual difficulties in controlling seizures and the results reported in the literature. There is also a section dedicated to the common association with cognitive impairment and the role of epilepsy control on its outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Novegno
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Catholic University Medical School, Rome, Italy.
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Hauptman JS, Mathern GW. Epilepsy neurosurgery in children. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2012; 108:881-95. [PMID: 22939072 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52899-5.00034-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jason S Hauptman
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Jaseja H. Efficacy of vagal nerve stimulation in patients with cerebral palsy: emerging corroborative evidence. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2011; 113:603. [PMID: 21420784 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2011.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 02/23/2011] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Englot DJ, Chang EF, Auguste KI. Vagus nerve stimulation for epilepsy: a meta-analysis of efficacy and predictors of response. J Neurosurg 2011; 115:1248-55. [PMID: 21838505 DOI: 10.3171/2011.7.jns11977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 299] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) was approved by the US FDA in 1997 as an adjunctive treatment for medically refractory epilepsy. It is considered for use in patients who are poor candidates for resection or those in whom resection has failed. However, disagreement regarding the utility of VNS in epilepsy continues because of the variability in benefit reported across clinical studies. Moreover, although VNS was approved only for adults and adolescents with partial epilepsy, its efficacy in children and in patients with generalized epilepsy remains unclear. The authors performed the first meta-analysis of VNS efficacy in epilepsy, identifying 74 clinical studies with 3321 patients suffering from intractable epilepsy. These studies included 3 blinded, randomized controlled trials (Class I evidence); 2 nonblinded, randomized controlled trials (Class II evidence); 10 prospective studies (Class III evidence); and numerous retrospective studies. After VNS, seizure frequency was reduced by an average of 45%, with a 36% reduction in seizures at 3-12 months after surgery and a 51% reduction after > 1 year of therapy. At the last follow-up, seizures were reduced by 50% or more in approximately 50% of the patients, and VNS predicted a ≥ 50% reduction in seizures with a main effects OR of 1.83 (95% CI 1.80-1.86). Patients with generalized epilepsy and children benefited significantly from VNS despite their exclusion from initial approval of the device. Furthermore, posttraumatic epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis were positive predictors of a favorable outcome. In conclusion, VNS is an effective and relatively safe adjunctive therapy in patients with medically refractory epilepsy not amenable to resection. However, it is important to recognize that complete seizure freedom is rarely achieved using VNS and that a quarter of patients do not receive any benefit from therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario J Englot
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143-0112, USA.
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