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Scheffer IE, Zuberi S, Mefford HC, Guerrini R, McTague A. Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:61. [PMID: 39237642 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00546-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, the most severe group of epilepsies, are characterized by seizures and frequent epileptiform activity associated with developmental slowing or regression. Onset typically occurs in infancy or childhood and includes many well-defined epilepsy syndromes. Patients have wide-ranging comorbidities including intellectual disability, psychiatric features, such as autism spectrum disorder and behavioural problems, movement and musculoskeletal disorders, gastrointestinal and sleep problems, together with an increased mortality rate. Problems change with age and patients require substantial support throughout life, placing a high psychosocial burden on parents, carers and the community. In many patients, the aetiology can be identified, and a genetic cause is found in >50% of patients using next-generation sequencing technologies. More than 900 genes have been identified as monogenic causes of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies and many cell components and processes have been implicated in their pathophysiology, including ion channels and transporters, synaptic proteins, cell signalling and metabolism and epigenetic regulation. Polygenic risk score analyses have shown that common variants also contribute to phenotypic variability. Holistic management, which encompasses antiseizure therapies and care for multimorbidities, is determined both by epilepsy syndrome and aetiology. Identification of the underlying aetiology enables the development of precision medicines to improve the long-term outcome of patients with these devastating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid E Scheffer
- Epilepsy Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
- Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Sameer Zuberi
- Paediatric Neurosciences Research Group, School of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Paediatric Neurosciences, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK
| | - Heather C Mefford
- Center for Paediatric Neurological Disease Research, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Renzo Guerrini
- Neuroscience Department, Children's Hospital Meyer IRCCS, Florence, Italy
- University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Amy McTague
- Developmental Neurosciences, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
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Hawkins NA, Speakes N, Kearney JA. Fine mapping and candidate gene analysis of Dravet syndrome modifier loci on mouse chromosomes 7 and 8. Mamm Genome 2024; 35:334-345. [PMID: 38862622 PMCID: PMC11329421 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-024-10046-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) characterized by intractable seizures, comorbidities related to developmental, cognitive, and motor delays, and a high mortality burden due to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Most Dravet syndrome cases are attributed to SCN1A haploinsufficiency, with genetic modifiers and environmental factors influencing disease severity. Mouse models with heterozygous deletion of Scn1a recapitulate key features of Dravet syndrome, including seizures and premature mortality; however, severity varies depending on genetic background. Here, we refined two Dravet survival modifier (Dsm) loci, Dsm2 on chromosome 7 and Dsm3 on chromosome 8, using interval-specific congenic (ISC) mapping. Dsm2 was complex and encompassed at least two separate loci, while Dsm3 was refined to a single locus. Candidate modifier genes within these refined loci were prioritized based on brain expression, strain-dependent differences, and biological relevance to seizures or epilepsy. High priority candidate genes for Dsm2 include Nav2, Ptpn5, Ldha, Dbx1, Prmt3 and Slc6a5, while Dsm3 has a single high priority candidate, Psd3. This study underscores the complex genetic architecture underlying Dravet syndrome and provides insights into potential modifier genes that could influence disease severity and serve as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Hawkins
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 320 East Superior St., Searle 8-510, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Nathan Speakes
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 320 East Superior St., Searle 8-510, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jennifer A Kearney
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 320 East Superior St., Searle 8-510, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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3
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Giorgi S, Auvin S, Schoonjans AS, Turón E, Sánchez-Miranda I, Gil-Nagel A, Lagae L, Aibar JÁ. A tool for Dravet syndrome-associated neuropsychiatric comorbidities evaluation (DANCE). Epilepsy Behav 2024; 158:109958. [PMID: 39067307 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109958] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dravet syndrome (DS) is a rare and severe form of epilepsy that begins in infancy, which is primarily caused by pathogenic variants in the SCN1A gene. DS is characterized by prolonged and frequent drug-resistant seizures, as well as developmental delays and behavioral problems. The identification of these comorbidities is based on clinical interview and relies on healthcare professionals (HCPs) experience. METHODS We assembled a group of expert HCPs and caregivers to create a screening checklist for assessing DS-Associated Neuropsychiatric Comorbidities (DANC). The checklist includes questions related to cognitive and psychiatric domains, motor skills, and the impact of DS on families' daily lives. We administered the checklist to 24 caregivers of DS patients from Belgium, France, and Spain. After piloting, we obtained feedback from expert HCPs and caregivers to refine the checklist. RESULTS DS patients showed a wide array of neuropsychiatric symptoms related to DS. The most common cognitive domains reported were attention difficulties and multitasking problems (18/24 caregivers), and impulsivity (17/24), while the most common psychiatric symptoms were temper tantrums (14/24), mood swings (13/24) and autism spectrum disorder (12/24). Balance and coordination problem have been reported in almost all patients with a statement of only 4/23 with complete mobility. Most patients were dependent on others for self-care and eating, and presented sleeping disturbances. Caregivers reported high levels of stress in the family unit, both between siblings and parents. Results show that the main concerns of parents were the behavior and the cognition of the person with DS. The quantitative feedback results showed good-to-very good scores on usefulness, ease of completion, clarity and comprehensiveness of the checklist. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study suggests that the DANCE checklist could be a useful screening tool in daily practice for neuropsychiatric comorbidities facilitating their diagnosis and treatment, and empowering both caregivers and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stéphane Auvin
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM NeuroDiderot, Paris, France; APHP, Robert Debré University Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Department, CRMR epilepsies rares, EpiCare member, Paris, France; Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | | | - Eulalia Turón
- Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
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Howard MA. New complex physiological findings evolve hypothesized mechanisms of Dravet syndrome. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1867-1868. [PMID: 38227502 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- MacKenzie A Howard
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, USA Center for Learning and Memory and Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Minderhoud CA, Postma A, Jansen FE, Zinkstok JR, Verhoeven JS, Berghuis B, Otte WM, Jongmans MJ, Braun KPJ, Brilstra EH. Quality of life in SCN1A-related seizure disorders across the lifespan. Brain Commun 2024; 6:fcae285. [PMID: 39239151 PMCID: PMC11375853 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcae285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This cohort study aims to describe the evolution of disease features and health-related quality of life per life stage in Dravet syndrome and other SCN1A-related non-Dravet seizure disorders which will enable treating physicians to provide tailored care. Health-related quality of life and disease features were assessed cross-sectionally in participants with a SCN1A-related seizure disorder, categorized per age group for Dravet syndrome, and longitudinally over seven years follow-up (2015-2022). Data were collected from questionnaires, medical records, and semi-structured telephonic interviews. Health-related quality of life was measured with the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory, proxy-reported for participants with Dravet syndrome and for participants with non-Dravet aged younger than 18 years old and self-reported for participants with non-Dravet over 18 years old. Associations between health-related quality of life and disease features were explored with multivariable regression analyses, cross-sectionally in a cohort of 115 patients with Dravet and 48 patients with generalized epilepsy with febrile seizures plus and febrile seizures (non-Dravet) and longitudinally in a cohort of 52 Dravet patients and 13 non-Dravet patients. In the cross-sectional assessment in 2022, health-related quality of life was significantly lower in Dravet syndrome, compared to non-Dravet and normative controls. Health-related quality of life in the School and Psychosocial domain was significantly higher in older Dravet age groups. A higher health-related quality of life was associated with fewer behavioural problems [β = -1.1; 95% confidence interval (CI), (-1.4 to -0.8)], independent walking (β = 8.5; 95%CI (4.2-12.8)), compared to the use of a wheelchair), and fewer symptoms of autonomic dysfunction (β = -2.1, 95%CI (-3.2 to -1.0)). Longitudinally, health-related quality of life was significantly higher seven years later in the course of disease in Dravet participants (Δ8.9 standard deviation (SD) 18.0, P < 0.05), mediated by a lower prevalence of behavioural problems (β = -1.2, 95%CI (-2.0 to -0.4)), lower seizure frequency (β = -0.1, 95%CI (-0.2 to -0.0)) and older age (β = 0.03, 95%CI (0.01-0.04)). In summary, health-related quality of life was significantly higher at older age in Dravet syndrome. This finding may reflect the benefits of an advanced care strategy in recent years and a ceiling of severity of disease symptoms, possibly resulting in an increased wellbeing of parents and patients. The strong association with behavioural problems reinforces the need to incorporate a multidisciplinary approach, tailored to the age-specific needs of this patient group, into standard care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crista A Minderhoud
- Department of Child Neurology, UMCU Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Amber Postma
- Department of Psychiatry, UMCU Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3583CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Floor E Jansen
- Department of Child Neurology, UMCU Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke R Zinkstok
- Department of Psychiatry, UMCU Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3583CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Karakter Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, 6525GC Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Judith S Verhoeven
- Department of Child Neurology, Academic Centre for Epileptology Kempenhaeghe, 5590AB Heeze, The Netherlands
| | - Bianca Berghuis
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, 8025BV Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - Wim M Otte
- Department of Child Neurology, UMCU Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marian J Jongmans
- Department of Pedagogical and Educational Sciences, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584EA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kees P J Braun
- Department of Child Neurology, UMCU Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eva H Brilstra
- Department of Genetics, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3583CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Saldaris JM, Ayalde J, Kankanange S, Keeley J, Leonard H, Jacoby P, Marsh ED, Benke TA, Demarest ST, Downs J. Parent-reported outcome measures evaluating communication in individuals with rare neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2024. [PMID: 39141588 DOI: 10.1111/1460-6984.13100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication impairments are a leading concern for parent caregivers of individuals with rare neurodevelopmental disorders (RNDDs). Clinical trials of disease modifying therapies require valid and responsive outcome measures that are relevant to individuals with RNDDs. Identifying and evaluating current psychometric properties for communication measures is a critical step towards the selection and use of appropriate instruments. AIMS This systematic review offers (1) a description of parent-reported communication measures and (2) evidence for their psychometric properties, in RNDDs. METHODS The systematic review protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42022334649). MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase, PsychINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry were searched from inception to August 2023. Methodological assessment of quality was completed using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. Parent-reported measures used in observational studies and clinical trials were identified. Data on utility, reliability and validity for RNDDs were extracted. MAIN CONTRIBUTION Sixteen parent-reported communication measures were used in RNDD research, the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales being most commonly used. Validation data in RNDDs were identified for six of these measures. Limitations related to sample size or the scope of psychometric testing. CONCLUSIONS Many communication measures have been used for RNDDs but there are few data validating their use. Valid and reliable methods of measuring communication in persons with RNDDs is a priority for future high-quality clinical trials. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS What is already known on the subject Communication is a critical domain for families with a child with a rare neurodevelopmental disorder (RNDD). Validated outcome measures are essential for accurate evaluation and interpretation of responses to treatments in clinical trials. What this paper adds to existing knowledge We identified 16 parent-reported communication measures that have been used with RNDDs, but only six measures had validation data for at least one RNDD. High quality evidence is accumulating, with all validation studies in this review published between 2020 to 2023. Modifications of existing measures may be required to assess communication for RNDDs. What are the clinical implications of this work? This systematic review catalogues the available psychometric data for communication measures and indicates an ongoing need for new validation studies to ensure they are fit-for-purpose for upcoming clinical trials in RNDDs. This review will inform the selection of communication measures for clinical trials and research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta M Saldaris
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- The University of Western Australia, Centre for Child Health Research, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jeremiah Ayalde
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Jessica Keeley
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- The University of Western Australia, Centre for Child Health Research, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Jacoby
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Eric D Marsh
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Division of Child Neurology, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tim A Benke
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Neurology and Pharmacology, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Scott T Demarest
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Neurology and Pharmacology, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jenny Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- The University of Western Australia, Centre for Child Health Research, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
- Curtin University, School of Allied Health, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
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Ferrer-Mallol E, Matthews C, Aziza R, Mendoza A, Sahota N, Komarzynski S, Lakshminarayana R, Davies EH. Video-based assessments of activities of daily living: generating real-world evidence in pediatric rare diseases. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2024; 24:713-721. [PMID: 38789406 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2024.2360201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preserving function and independence to perform activities of daily living (ADL) is critical for patients and carers to manage the burden of care and improve quality of life. In children living with rare diseases, video recording ADLs offer the opportunity to collect the patients' experience in a real-life setting and accurately reflect treatment effectiveness on outcomes that matter to patients and families. AREAS COVERED We reviewed the measurement of ADL in pediatric rare diseases and the use of video to develop at-home electronic clinical outcome assessments (eCOA) by leveraging smartphone apps and artificial intelligence-based analysis. We broadly searched PubMed using Boolean combinations of the following MeSH terms 'Rare Diseases,' 'Quality of Life,' 'Activities of Daily Living,' 'Child,' 'Video Recording,' 'Outcome Assessment, Healthcare,' 'Intellectual disability,' and 'Genetic Diseases, Inborn.' Non-controlled vocabulary was used to include human pose estimation in movement analysis. EXPERT OPINION Broad uptake of video eCOA in drug development is linked to the generation of technical and clinical validation evidence to confidently assess a patient's functional abilities. Software platforms handling video data must align with quality regulations to ensure data integrity, security, and privacy. Regulatory flexibility and optimized validation processes should facilitate video eCOA to support benefit/risk drug assessment.
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Malmberg C, Värendh M, Berling P, Charokopou M, Eklund E. Cost Effectiveness of Adding Fenfluramine to Standard of Care for Patients with Dravet Syndrome in Sweden. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2024; 22:543-554. [PMID: 38758509 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-024-00886-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study evaluated, in a Swedish setting, the cost effectiveness of fenfluramine (FFA) as an add-on to standard of care (SoC) for reducing seizure frequency in Dravet syndrome, a severe developmental epileptic encephalopathy. METHODS Cost effectiveness of FFA+SoC compared with SoC only was evaluated using a patient-level simulation model with a lifetime horizon. Patient characteristics and treatment effects, including convulsive seizures, seizure-free days and mortality, were derived from FFA clinical trials. Resource use and costs included cost of drug acquisition, routine care and monitoring, as well as ongoing and emergency resources. Quality of life (QoL) estimates for patients and their caregivers were derived from clinical trial data. Robustness was evaluated by one-way sensitivity analysis, probabilistic sensitivity analysis and scenario analyses. RESULTS Lifetime cost of FFA+SoC was ~3 million SEK per patient compared with ~1.5 million SEK for SoC only. FFA+SoC generated 15% more QALYs than SoC only (21.2 vs 18.5 over a lifetime), resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of ~540,000 SEK. Moreover, FFA+SoC had a higher probability of being cost effective than SoC only from a willingness-to-pay threshold of 710,000 SEK. Results remained generally consistent across scenario analyses, with only few exceptions (exclusions of carer utility or FFA effect on sudden unexpected death in epilepsy). CONCLUSION Due to better seizure control, FFA is a clinically meaningful add-on therapy and was estimated to be a cost-effective addition to current SoC for patients with this rare disease in Sweden at a willingness-to-pay threshold of 1,000,000 SEK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Malmberg
- The Swedish Institute for Health Economics (IHE), Lund, Sweden.
| | - Magnus Värendh
- The Swedish Institute for Health Economics (IHE), Lund, Sweden
| | | | | | - Erik Eklund
- Clinical Sciences, Pediatric Neurology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Soto Jansson J, Bjurulf B, Dellenmark Blom M, Hallböök T, Reilly C. Caregiver perceptions of the impact of Dravet syndrome on the family, current supports and hopes and fears for the future: A qualitative study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 156:109790. [PMID: 38692022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109790] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dravet syndrome (DS) is a Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy (DEE) with onset typically in infancy. Seizures are pharmaco-resistant, and neurodevelopment is compromised in almost all children. There is limited data on the impact of the condition on the family, support needs and hopes and fears in Sweden. METHODS Interviews were undertaken with the caregivers of 36 of 48 (75%) living children with DS in Sweden focusing on the perceived impact on the family, current supports and hopes and fears for the future. Data from the interviews were analyzed by two raters using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS The analysis revealed seven main themes focusing on the perceived negative impact the disease has on caregivers and family functioning. These negative impacts concerned: caregiver sleep (e.g., frequent night waking), siblings (e.g., gets less attention/time), social life (e.g., limited vacations), family finances (e.g., limited career progression), parental health (both mental and physical) and need for constant supervision (e.g., child's need for constant supervision for fear of seizures). Another theme concerned the impact on family relationships. Whilst some caregivers perceived the impact to be negative (e.g., limited time for each other) others felt that having a child with DS lead to stronger relationships and more 'teamwork'. With respect to supports, the caregivers identified a number of areas where they felt the family could access appropriate supports. Themes regarding supports included: support from the wider family and friends, support from DS support groups (online or in-person), support from the child's hospital or disability service and respite care (e.g., child was looked after on weekends or had paid carers in the home). Regarding hopes and fears for the future, responses focused mainly on fears, including concerns about premature death of the child, transition to adult healthcare services and care arrangements for child when parents are dead. Hopes for the future included better treatment for epilepsy and associated neurodevelopmental problems and finding a cure for DS. CONCLUSIONS Caregivers of children with DS report that the disease can have a very comprehensive negative impact on caregiver and family functioning. Identifying and providing the supports to ameliorate these negative impacts is vital to optimize caregiver and family wellbeing and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefin Soto Jansson
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Björn Bjurulf
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Michaela Dellenmark Blom
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tove Hallböök
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Colin Reilly
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, 413 45, Gothenburg, Sweden; Dept. of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Clayton LM, Azadi B, Eldred C, Wilson G, Robinson R, Sisodiya SM. Feeding Difficulties and Gastrostomy in Dravet Syndrome: A UK-Wide Survey and 2-Center Experience. Neurol Clin Pract 2024; 14:e200288. [PMID: 38737515 PMCID: PMC11087032 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Dravet syndrome (DS) is one of the most common monogenic epilepsies. Alongside the core seizure and developmental phenotypes, problems with appetite, swallowing, and weight loss are frequently reported, necessitating gastrostomy in some. We explored the burden of feeding difficulties and need for gastrostomy across 3 DS populations in the United Kingdom. We document caregiver opinion and postgastrostomy outcomes, and provide guidance regarding feeding issues and gastrostomy in DS. Methods A retrospective, observational study was conducted; data were collected from medical records of 124 individuals with DS attending clinics at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, and Great Ormond Street Hospital, and from 65 DS caregiver responses to a UK-wide survey. Results In total, 64 of 124 (52%) had at least 1 feeding difficulty; 21 of 124 (17%) had a gastrostomy, and gastrostomy was being considered in 5%; the most common reasons for gastrostomy were poor appetite (81%) and weight loss/failure to gain weight (71%). Median age at gastrostomy was 17 years (range 2.5-59). Multivariate analyses identified several factors that in combination contributed to risk of feeding difficulties and gastrostomy, including treatment with several antiseizure medications (ASMs), of which stiripentol made a unique contribution to risk of gastrostomy (p = 0.048, odds ratio 3.20, 95% CI 1.01-10.16). Preinsertion, 88% of caregivers were worried about the gastrostomy, with concerns across a range of issues. Postgastrostomy, 88% of caregivers were happy that their child had the gastrostomy, and >90% agreed that the gastrostomy ensured medication compliance, that their child's overall health was better, and that quality of life improved. Discussion Feeding difficulties are common in DS, and 17% require a gastrostomy to address these. Risk factors for feeding difficulties in DS are unknown, but ASMs may play a role. There is a high level of caregiver concern regarding gastrostomy preprocedure; however, postgastrostomy caregiver opinion is positive. Feeding difficulties should be proactively sought during review of people with DS, and the potential need for gastrostomy should be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Clayton
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (LMC, SMS), London; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy (LMC, SMS), Bucks; Great Ormond Street Hospital (BA, RR), London; and Dravet Syndrome UK (CE, GW), Registered Charity Number 1128289, Member of Dravet Syndrome European Federation, Chesterfield, United Kingdom
| | - Bahar Azadi
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (LMC, SMS), London; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy (LMC, SMS), Bucks; Great Ormond Street Hospital (BA, RR), London; and Dravet Syndrome UK (CE, GW), Registered Charity Number 1128289, Member of Dravet Syndrome European Federation, Chesterfield, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Eldred
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (LMC, SMS), London; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy (LMC, SMS), Bucks; Great Ormond Street Hospital (BA, RR), London; and Dravet Syndrome UK (CE, GW), Registered Charity Number 1128289, Member of Dravet Syndrome European Federation, Chesterfield, United Kingdom
| | - Galia Wilson
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (LMC, SMS), London; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy (LMC, SMS), Bucks; Great Ormond Street Hospital (BA, RR), London; and Dravet Syndrome UK (CE, GW), Registered Charity Number 1128289, Member of Dravet Syndrome European Federation, Chesterfield, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Robinson
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (LMC, SMS), London; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy (LMC, SMS), Bucks; Great Ormond Street Hospital (BA, RR), London; and Dravet Syndrome UK (CE, GW), Registered Charity Number 1128289, Member of Dravet Syndrome European Federation, Chesterfield, United Kingdom
| | - Sanjay M Sisodiya
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (LMC, SMS), London; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy (LMC, SMS), Bucks; Great Ormond Street Hospital (BA, RR), London; and Dravet Syndrome UK (CE, GW), Registered Charity Number 1128289, Member of Dravet Syndrome European Federation, Chesterfield, United Kingdom
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11
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Suzuki T, Natsume J, Ito Y, Ito T, Noritake K, Kinoshita F, Fukasawa T, Tsuji T, Itomi K, Kurahashi H, Kubota K, Okanishi T, Saitoh S, Sugiura H, Watanabe H, Takahashi Y, Kidokoro H. Effect of levodopa on pathological gait in Dravet syndrome: A randomized crossover trial using three-dimensional gait analysis. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1304-1313. [PMID: 38469885 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17888] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Individuals with Dravet syndrome (DS) exhibit progressive gait disturbance. No quantitative studies have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of medication for gait disturbance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of levodopa for pathological gait in people with DS using three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA). METHODS Nine individuals with DS, ages 6-20 years, participated in a crossover study of levodopa and were randomly assigned to the levodopa precedence or no levodopa precedence group. Levodopa/carbidopa hydrate was prescribed at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day (body weight <60 kg) or 300 mg/day (body weight ≥60 kg). The medication was taken for 4-6 weeks (4-week washout period). 3DGA was performed three times before the study, with and without levodopa. A mixed-effects model was used to evaluate the effectiveness of levodopa. The primary outcome was the change in the Gait Deviation Index (GDI). In addition, spatiotemporal gait parameters, 6-minute walking distance (6MD), and balance were evaluated. The correlation between the effectiveness of levodopa and age or gait performance before starting levodopa was analyzed. RESULTS Levodopa improved the GDI by 4.2 points, (p = .029), 6MD by 52 m (p = .002), and balance test result by 4.1 mm (p = .011) in participants with DS. No severe adverse events were observed, with the exception of one participant, who exhibited fever and consequently stopped taking levodopa. Levodopa was more effective in younger participants with a higher baseline gait performance. SIGNIFICANCE Our randomized crossover trial showed that levodopa has the potential to improve gait disturbance in people with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Jun Natsume
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Developmental Disability Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuji Ito
- Department of Pediatrics, Aichi Prefectural Mikawa Aoitori Medical and Rehabilitation Center for Developmental Disabilities, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Tadashi Ito
- Three-dimensional Motion Analysis Room, Aichi Prefectural Mikawa Aoitori Medical and Rehabilitation Center for Developmental Disabilities, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Koji Noritake
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Aichi Prefectural Mikawa Aoitori Medical and Rehabilitation Center for Developmental Disabilities, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Fumie Kinoshita
- Department of Advanced Medicine, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Takeshi Tsuji
- Department of Pediatrics, Okazaki City Hospital, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Kazuya Itomi
- Department of Neurology, Aichi Children's Health and Medical Center, Obu, Japan
| | | | - Kazuo Kubota
- Department of Pediatrics, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Tohru Okanishi
- Department of Child Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
- Division of Child Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Tottori University School of Medicine, Yonago, Japan
| | - Shinji Saitoh
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hideshi Sugiura
- Department of Physical Therapy, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Watanabe
- Department of Neurology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Takahashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kidokoro
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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12
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Hawkins NA, Speakes N, Kearney JA. Fine Mapping and Candidate Gene Analysis of Dravet Syndrome Modifier Loci on Mouse Chromosomes 7 and 8. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.15.589561. [PMID: 38659879 PMCID: PMC11042286 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.15.589561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) characterized by intractable seizures, comorbidities related to developmental, cognitive, and motor delays, and a high mortality burden due to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Most Dravet syndrome cases are attributed to SCN1A haploinsufficiency, with genetic modifiers and environmental factors influencing disease severity. Mouse models with heterozygous deletion of Scn1a recapitulate key features of Dravet syndrome, including seizures and premature mortality; however, severity varies depending on genetic background. Here, we refined two Dravet survival modifier (Dsm) loci, Dsm2 on chromosome 7 and Dsm3 on chromosome 8, using interval-specific congenic (ISC) mapping. Dsm2 was complex and encompassed at least two separate loci, while Dsm3 was refined to a single locus. Candidate modifier genes within these refined loci were prioritized based on brain expression, strain-dependent differences, and biological relevance to seizures or epilepsy. High priority candidate genes for Dsm2 include Nav2, Ptpn5, Ldha, Dbx1, Prmt3 and Slc6a5, while Dsm3 has a single high priority candidate, Psd3. This study underscores the complex genetic architecture underlying Dravet syndrome and provides insights into potential modifier genes that could influence disease severity and serve as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A. Hawkins
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA 60611
| | - Nathan Speakes
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA 60611
| | - Jennifer A. Kearney
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA 60611
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13
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Berg AT, Dixon-Salazar T, Meskis MA, Danese SR, Le NMD, Perry MS. Caregiver-reported outcomes with real-world use of cannabidiol in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome from the BECOME survey. Epilepsy Res 2024; 200:107280. [PMID: 38183688 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2023.107280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Plant-derived highly purified cannabidiol (CBD) reduced the frequency of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet syndrome (DS) and improved the overall condition of patients in placebo-controlled phase 3 clinical trials. Anecdotal reports also suggest a positive effect on nonseizure outcomes. In this study, we aimed to identify, through a caregiver survey which nonseizure outcomes were most likely to change in these patients. METHODS The BEhavior, COgnition, and More with Epidiolex® (BECOME) was a 20-minute, cross-sectional, online survey that was developed with extensive input from caregivers, healthcare professionals, and epilepsy researchers, and was based on questions from validated measures and previously published caregiver reports. US-based caregivers (from Jazz Pharmaceuticals patient/caregiver database) of people with LGS or DS who were treated with CBD (Epidiolex®, 100 mg/mL oral solution) for ≥3 months were asked to compare the past month to the period before CBD initiation and rate their impression of changes using symmetrical Likert scales. RESULTS A total of 498 caregivers (97% parents) of patients with LGS (80%) or DS (20%) completed the survey. Mean (range) age of patients was 16 (1-73) years, and 52% were male. Patients were taking a median CBD dose of 14 mg/kg/d and median 4 concomitant antiseizure medications. A large proportion of respondents reported improvements in ≥1 survey question for all nonseizure-related domains: alertness, cognition, and executive function (85%); emotional functioning (82%); language and communication (79% in nonverbal patients and 74% in verbal); activities of daily living (51%); sleep (51%); and physical functioning (46%). Respondents reported improvements in seizure-related domains, including overall seizure frequency (85%), overall seizure severity (76%), seizure-free days per week for ≥1 seizure type (67%), and seizure freedom during the past month (16%). The majority of respondents who reported reduction in seizure frequency also reported improvements in nonseizure outcomes domains (51-80%). However, improvements in nonseizure outcomes (18-56%) were also reported in patients who either had no change or worsening of seizure frequency. CONCLUSIONS This survey characterized and quantified caregiver impression of changes in the seizure and nonseizure outcomes in patients taking add-on CBD treatment. Overall, 93% of caregivers reported planning to continue CBD treatment, primarily because of reduced seizure burden but also because of improvements in nonseizure-related outcomes. Despite the limitations that are associated with a retrospective survey-based study design, these results support further evaluation of the effect of CBD treatment on nonseizure outcomes among patients with LGS or DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 420 E Superior St., Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Tracy Dixon-Salazar
- Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome Foundation, 6030 Santo Road, Suite 1, Unit, 420878, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Sherry R Danese
- Outcomes Insights, 30200 Agoura Road Suite 230, Agoura Hills, CA, USA
| | - Ngoc Minh D Le
- Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 5750 Fleet Street, Suite 200, Carlsbad, CA, USA
| | - M Scott Perry
- Jane and John Justin Institute for Mind Health, Cook Children's Medical Center, 1500 Cooper St 4th Floor, Fort Worth, TX, USA
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14
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Chemaly N, Kuchenbuch M, Teng T, Marie E, D'Onofrio G, Lo Barco T, Brambilla I, Flege S, Hallet A, Nabbout R. A European pilot study in Dravet Syndrome to delineate what really matters for the patients and families. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:388-396. [PMID: 34747137 PMCID: PMC10839355 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to identify caregivers' opinions on the outcome measures that matter in clinical trials in individuals with Dravet syndrome (DS). We conducted a prospective European multicenter study based on an 11 closed questions survey developed by the French reference center for rare epilepsies and DS patients' advocacy groups. Items included questions on seizures and daily life outcomes that a clinical trial on a therapy for individuals with DS should target. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of the country of residence and of the patients' age. The survey was answered by 153 caregivers (68%: France, 28%: Germany, and 24%: Italy) off individuals with DS. Individuals with DS included 86 males (mean age of 11.4 [interquartile: 7-20.4] years). Families ranked as important almost all the items proposed. However, items related to daily life had the highest rank in all three countries compared to items about seizures (P = 0.02). Increase in individuals' age was associated with a higher age at diagnosis (ρ = 0.26, P = 0.02), and a lower impact of seizure duration (ρ = -0.25, P = 0.005) and on the need of hospital referral (ρ = -0.26, P = 0.005). These data can help tailor patient-centered outcome measures in future clinical and real-life trials for DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Chemaly
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyReference Centre for Rare EpilepsiesHôpital Necker‐Enfants MaladesAPHPMember of ERN EpiCAREParisFrance
- Laboratory of Translational Research for Neurological DisordersINSERM MR1163Imagine InstituteParisFrance
- Université de ParisParisFrance
| | - Mathieu Kuchenbuch
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyReference Centre for Rare EpilepsiesHôpital Necker‐Enfants MaladesAPHPMember of ERN EpiCAREParisFrance
- Laboratory of Translational Research for Neurological DisordersINSERM MR1163Imagine InstituteParisFrance
| | - Théo Teng
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyReference Centre for Rare EpilepsiesHôpital Necker‐Enfants MaladesAPHPMember of ERN EpiCAREParisFrance
| | | | - Gianluca D'Onofrio
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyReference Centre for Rare EpilepsiesHôpital Necker‐Enfants MaladesAPHPMember of ERN EpiCAREParisFrance
- Department of Women and Child HealthUniversity of PaduaPaduaItaly
| | - Tommaso Lo Barco
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyReference Centre for Rare EpilepsiesHôpital Necker‐Enfants MaladesAPHPMember of ERN EpiCAREParisFrance
- Child NeuropsychiatryDepartment of Surgical SciencesDentistry, Gynecology and PediatricsUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | | | | | | | - Rima Nabbout
- Department of Pediatric NeurologyReference Centre for Rare EpilepsiesHôpital Necker‐Enfants MaladesAPHPMember of ERN EpiCAREParisFrance
- Laboratory of Translational Research for Neurological DisordersINSERM MR1163Imagine InstituteParisFrance
- Université de ParisParisFrance
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15
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Perry MS, Scheffer IE, Sullivan J, Brunklaus A, Boronat S, Wheless JW, Laux L, Patel AD, Roberts CM, Dlugos D, Holder D, Knupp KG, Lallas M, Phillips S, Segal E, Smeyers P, Lal D, Wirrell E, Zuberi S, Brünger T, Wojnaroski M, Maru B, O'Donnell P, Morton M, James E, Vila MC, Huang N, Gofshteyn JS, Rico S. Severe communication delays are independent of seizure burden and persist despite contemporary treatments in SCN1A+ Dravet syndrome: Insights from the ENVISION natural history study. Epilepsia 2024; 65:322-337. [PMID: 38049202 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17850] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dravet syndrome (DS) is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by high seizure burden, treatment-resistant epilepsy, and developmental stagnation. Family members rate communication deficits among the most impactful disease manifestations. We evaluated seizure burden and language/communication development in children with DS. METHODS ENVISION was a prospective, observational study evaluating children with DS associated with SCN1A pathogenic variants (SCN1A+ DS) enrolled at age ≤5 years. Seizure burden and antiseizure medications were assessed every 3 months and communication and language every 6 months with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development 3rd edition and the parent-reported Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales 3rd edition. We report data from the first year of observation, including analyses stratified by age at Baseline: 0:6-2:0 years:months (Y:M; youngest), 2:1-3:6 Y:M (middle), and 3:7-5:0 Y:M (oldest). RESULTS Between December 2020 and March 2023, 58 children with DS enrolled at 16 sites internationally. Median follow-up was 17.5 months (range = .0-24.0), with 54 of 58 (93.1%) followed for at least 6 months and 51 of 58 (87.9%) for 12 months. Monthly countable seizure frequency (MCSF) increased with age (median [minimum-maximum] = 1.0 in the youngest [1.0-70.0] and middle [1.0-242.0] age groups and 4.5 [.0-2647.0] in the oldest age group), and remained high, despite use of currently approved antiseizure medications. Language/communication delays were observed early, and developmental stagnation occurred after age 2 years with both instruments. In predictive modeling, chronologic age was the only significant covariate of seizure frequency (effect size = .52, p = .024). MCSF, number of antiseizure medications, age at first seizure, and convulsive status epilepticus were not predictors of language/communication raw scores. SIGNIFICANCE In infants and young children with SCN1A+ DS, language/communication delay and stagnation were independent of seizure burden. Our findings emphasize that the optimal therapeutic window to prevent language/communication delay is before 3 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Scott Perry
- Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph Sullivan
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | | | | | - Linda Laux
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Anup D Patel
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Dennis Dlugos
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Deborah Holder
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Matt Lallas
- Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | - Eric Segal
- Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group & Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, New Jersey, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sameer Zuberi
- School of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Magda Morton
- Encoded Therapeutics, South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Emma James
- Encoded Therapeutics, South San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Norman Huang
- Encoded Therapeutics, South San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Salvador Rico
- Encoded Therapeutics, South San Francisco, California, USA
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16
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Sullivan J, Wirrell E, Knupp KG, Chen D, Flamini R, Zafar M, Ventola P, Avendaño J, Wang F, Parkerson KA, Ticho B. Adaptive functioning and neurodevelopment in patients with Dravet syndrome: 12-month interim analysis of the BUTTERFLY observational study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 151:109604. [PMID: 38219604 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109604] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The BUTTERFLY observational study aims to elucidate the natural trajectory of Dravet syndrome (DS) and associated comorbidities in order to establish a baseline for clinical therapies. We present the 12-month interim analysis of the study. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with a genetically confirmed diagnosis of DS were enrolled in the study. Adaptive functioning and neurodevelopmental status were measured using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale, Third Edition (Vineland-III), Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Third Edition (BSID-III), and Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, Fourth Edition (WPPSI-IV). Executive function, ambulatory function and locomotor activities, and overall clinical status were measured using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function - Preschool Version (BRIEF-P) scale, Gillette Functional Assessment Questionnaire (Gillette FAQ), and Clinician or Caregiver Global Impression of Change scales (CGI-C or CaGI-C) respectively. RESULTS Overall, 36 patients were enrolled across three age groups, with 35 patients completing at least part or all of one post-baseline visit through Month 12. Significant improvements in receptive communication, as assessed by Vineland-III and BSID-III raw scores, and in verbal comprehension subtests, as assessed by WPPSI-IV raw scores, were observed in BUTTERFLY patients for the all-patient group. Many patients performed on the impaired end of the BRIEF-P Global Executive Composite scale at baseline suggesting difficulties in executive function, and no significant change was observed in BRIEF-P scores for the all-patient group. Most patients performed in the dynamic range of the Gillette FAQ at baseline, and no significant change was observed in Gillette FAQ scores for the all-patient group. Lastly, there was significant improvement observed in the CaGI-C scores for the all-patient group. SIGNIFICANCE This BUTTERFLY interim analysis shows small improvements in communication skills along with stability in other developmental abilities across patients with DS enrolled in the study from baseline to Month 12.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kelly G Knupp
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Dillon Chen
- University of California, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | - Fei Wang
- Stoke Therapeutics, Bedford, MA, USA.
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17
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Ballesteros-Sayas C, Muñoz-Montero A, Giorgi S, Cardenal-Muñoz E, Turón-Viñas E, Pallardó F, Aibar JÁ. Non-pharmacological therapeutic needs in people with Dravet syndrome. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 150:109553. [PMID: 38035538 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109553] [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: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a genetic rare disease, which is usually caused by a mutation in the SCN1A gene. DS is characterised by a drug-resistant epilepsy and by cognitive and behavioural disturbances. Thus, DS patients require both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. However, there is a paucity of studies on non-pharmacological therapies and their potential benefits. The main aim of this study was to describe the non-pharmacological therapy modalities received by DS patients and their socio-economic impact on the family. Thus, we designed an online survey addressed to caregivers of DS patients. Our results indicated that up to 91.9% of the surveyed patients required non-pharmacological therapies, which were mainly directed to treat cognitive, sensory and motor impairments. In many cases, the economic costs of these therapies were borne entirely by the families. Nevertheless, patients required a deployment of resources not only at a health care level, but also at an educational level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Ballesteros-Sayas
- Early Infant Care Center, Hospital San Rafael, C/ San Juan de Dios, 19, 18001 Granada, Spain.
| | | | - Simona Giorgi
- Dravet Syndrome Foundation Spain, C/ Toledo, 46, 1º, 28005 Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Eulalia Turón-Viñas
- Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, C/ Sant Quintí 89, 08001 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Federico Pallardó
- University of Valencia, Cellular and Organ Physiopathology of Oxidative Stress Research Group (INCLIVA), Av/ Vicente Blasco Ibáñez, 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
| | - José Ángel Aibar
- Dravet Syndrome Foundation Spain, C/ Toledo, 46, 1º, 28005 Madrid, Spain.
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18
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Maltseva M, Rosenow F, Schubert-Bast S, Flege S, Wolff M, von Spiczak S, Trollmann R, Syrbe S, Ruf S, Polster T, Neubauer BA, Mayer T, Jacobs J, Kurlemann G, Kluger G, Klotz KA, Kieslich M, Kay L, Hornemann F, Bettendorf U, Bertsche A, Bast T, Strzelczyk A. Critical incidents, nocturnal supervision, and caregiver knowledge on SUDEP in patients with Dravet syndrome: A prospective multicenter study in Germany. Epilepsia 2024; 65:115-126. [PMID: 37846648 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim was to investigate the monitoring, interventions, and occurrence of critical, potentially life-threatening incidents in patients with Dravet syndrome (DS) and caregivers' knowledge about sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). METHODS This multicenter, cross-sectional study of patients with DS and their caregivers in Germany consisted of a questionnaire and prospective diary querying the disease characteristics and demographic data of patients and caregivers. RESULTS Our analysis included 108 questionnaires and 82 diaries. Patients with DS were 49.1% male (n = 53), with a mean age of 13.5 (SD ± 10.0 years) and primary caregivers were 92.6% (n = 100) female, with a mean age of 44.7 (SD ± 10.6 years). Monitoring devices were used regularly by 75.9% (n = 82) of caregivers, and most monitored daily/nightly. Frequently used devices were pulse oximeters (64.6%), baby monitors (64.6%), thermometers (24.1%), and Epi-Care (26.8%). Younger caregiver and patient age and history of status epilepticus were associated with increased use of monitoring, and 81% of monitor users reported having avoided a critical incident with nocturnal monitoring. The need for resuscitation due to cardiac or respiratory arrest was reported by 22 caregivers (20.4%), and most cases (72.7%) were associated with a seizure. Caregivers reported frequently performing interventions at night, including oropharyngeal suction, oxygenation, personal hygiene, and change of body position. Most caregivers were well informed about SUDEP (n = 102; 94%) and monitored for a lateral or supine body position; however, only 39.8% reported receiving resuscitation training, whereas 52.8% (n = 57) knew what to do in case the child's breathing or heart activity failed. SIGNIFICANCE Critical incidents and the need for resuscitation are reported frequently by caregivers and may be related to high mortality and SUDEP rates in DS. Resuscitation training is welcomed by caregivers and should be continuously provided. Oxygen monitoring devices are frequently used and considered useful by caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Maltseva
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Silke Flege
- Dravet Syndrom e.V., Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Markus Wolff
- Center of Pediatric Neurology, Vivantes Hospital Neukoelln, Berlin, Germany
- Swiss Epilepsy Center, Klinik Lengg AG, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah von Spiczak
- Northern German Epilepsy Centre for Children and Adolescents, Kiel-Raisdorf, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Steffen Syrbe
- Division of Pediatric Epileptology, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Ruf
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tilman Polster
- Department of Epileptology, Bielefeld University, Krankenhaus Mara, Epilepsy Center Bethel, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Bernd A Neubauer
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thomas Mayer
- Epilepsy Center Kleinwachau, Dresden-Radeberg, Germany
| | - Julia Jacobs
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Gerhard Kluger
- Clinic for Neuropediatrics and Neurorehabilitation, Epilepsy Center for Children and Adolescents, Schoen Clinic Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth, Germany
- Research Institute "Rehabilitation, Transition, and Palliation", PMU Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Kerstin A Klotz
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Matthias Kieslich
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lara Kay
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Frauke Hornemann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Leipzig University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Klinikum Chemnitz, Chemnitz, Germany
| | | | - Astrid Bertsche
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Rostock, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Thomas Bast
- Epilepsy Center Kork, Kehl-Kork, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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19
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Bjurulf B, Reilly C, Hallböök T. Caregiver reported behavior, sleep and quality of life in children with Dravet syndrome: A population-based study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 150:109560. [PMID: 38071826 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109560] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this population-based study was to assess behavior, sleep, and quality of life, and explore factors associated with these in children with Dravet syndrome. METHODS The Developmental Behavior Checklist, the Insomnia Severity Index, and a global question regarding quality of life from the Epilepsy and Learning Disabilities Quality of Life scale were completed by primary caregivers of 42/48 Swedish children with Dravet syndrome, born 2000-2018. Factors associated with problems with insomnia, behavior and quality of life were analyzed using multivariable linear regression. RESULTS Scores indicating significant behavioral problems were seen in 29/40 (72 %) children, scores indicating moderate or severe clinical insomnia in 18/42 (43 %) and scores indicating poor or very poor quality of life in 7/41 (17 %). On multivariable analysis, autistic symptoms were significantly associated with behavioral problems (p = 0.013), side-effects of anti-seizure medications (ASMs) were associated with insomnia (p = 0.038), whilst insomnia was significantly associated with poor quality of life (p = 0.016). SIGNIFICANCE Dravet syndrome in children is associated with significant problems with behavior, sleep and quality of life. There is a need to optimize treatment via ASMs and develop and evaluate interventions to treat behavioral and sleep difficulties to optimize outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Bjurulf
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Member of the ERN, EpiCARE, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Colin Reilly
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Member of the ERN, EpiCARE, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tove Hallböök
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Member of the ERN, EpiCARE, Gothenburg, Sweden
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20
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Fan HC, Yang MT, Lin LC, Chiang KL, Chen CM. Clinical and Genetic Features of Dravet Syndrome: A Prime Example of the Role of Precision Medicine in Genetic Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:31. [PMID: 38203200 PMCID: PMC10779156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010031] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS), also known as severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy, is a rare and drug-resistant form of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, which is both debilitating and challenging to manage, typically arising during the first year of life, with seizures often triggered by fever, infections, or vaccinations. It is characterized by frequent and prolonged seizures, developmental delays, and various other neurological and behavioral impairments. Most cases result from pathogenic mutations in the sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit 1 (SCN1A) gene, which encodes a critical voltage-gated sodium channel subunit involved in neuronal excitability. Precision medicine offers significant potential for improving DS diagnosis and treatment. Early genetic testing enables timely and accurate diagnosis. Advances in our understanding of DS's underlying genetic mechanisms and neurobiology have enabled the development of targeted therapies, such as gene therapy, offering more effective and less invasive treatment options for patients with DS. Targeted and gene therapies provide hope for more effective and personalized treatments. However, research into novel approaches remains in its early stages, and their clinical application remains to be seen. This review addresses the current understanding of clinical DS features, genetic involvement in DS development, and outcomes of novel DS therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hueng-Chuen Fan
- Department of Pediatrics, Tungs’ Taichung Metroharbor Hospital, Wuchi, Taichung 435, Taiwan;
- Department of Rehabilitation, Jen-Teh Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Miaoli 356, Taiwan
- Department of Life Sciences, Agricultural Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tao Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 220, Taiwan;
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan 320, Taiwan
| | - Lung-Chang Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Liang Chiang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Kuang-Tien General Hospital, Taichung 433, Taiwan;
- Department of Nutrition, Hungkuang University, Taichung 433, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mu Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, Agricultural Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- The iEGG and Animal Biotechnology Center, and Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
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21
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Trinh NHNY, Reid AS, Robertson B. Perioperative considerations for adult patients with Dravet syndrome in regional centres. BMJ Case Rep 2023; 16:e256261. [PMID: 38056933 PMCID: PMC10711814 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2023-256261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a rare and intractable severe form of epilepsy presenting in infancy with frequent prolonged myoclonic seizures and neurodevelopmental impairment, associated with a SCN1A gene mutation. Seizures are often triggered by temperature fluctuations and hyperthermia. This report presents a woman in her late adolescence with DS complicated with intractable catamenial epilepsy, a sex-specific form of epilepsy with seizure activity prominent during phases of the menstrual cycle. The patient underwent general anaesthesia for a hysteroscopy, cervical dilatation and endometrial curettage with Mirena insertion to improve seizure control. Her perioperative care was optimised for seizure prevention with continuation of antiepileptic medications, strict temperature monitoring and control, optimised anaesthetic agents encompassing induction with propofol and fentanyl with maintenance sevoflurane, followed by attentive postoperative care and monitoring. This case demonstrates that general anaesthesia can safely be delivered to adult patients with DS in rural and regional areas with thorough perioperative planning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy Susan Reid
- Anaesthesia, Albury Wodonga Health, East Albury, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Barbara Robertson
- Anaesthesia, Albury Wodonga Health, East Albury, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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Strzelczyk A, Lagae L, Wilmshurst JM, Brunklaus A, Striano P, Rosenow F, Schubert‐Bast S. Dravet syndrome: A systematic literature review of the illness burden. Epilepsia Open 2023; 8:1256-1270. [PMID: 37750463 PMCID: PMC10690674 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We performed a systematic literature review and narrative synthesis according to a pre-registered protocol (Prospero: CRD42022376561) to identify the evidence associated with the burden of illness in Dravet syndrome (DS), a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by drug-resistant epilepsy with neurocognitive and neurobehavioral impairment. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and APA PsychInfo, Cochrane's database of systematic reviews, and Epistemonikos from inception to June 2022. Non-interventional studies reporting on epidemiology (incidence, prevalence, and mortality), patient and caregiver health-related quality of life (HRQoL), direct and indirect costs and healthcare resource utilization were eligible. Two reviewers independently carried out the screening. Pre-specified data were extracted and a narrative synthesis was conducted. Overall, 49 studies met the inclusion criteria. The incidence varied from 1:15 400-1:40 900, and the prevalence varied from 1.5 per 100 000 to 6.5 per 100 000. Mortality was reported in 3.7%-20.8% of DS patients, most commonly due to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy and status epilepticus. Patient HRQoL, assessed by caregivers, was lower than in non-DS epilepsy patients; mean scores (0 [worst] to 100/1 [best]) were 62.1 for the Kiddy KINDL/Kid-KINDL, 46.5-54.7 for the PedsQL and 0.42 for the EQ-5D-5L. Caregivers, especially mothers, were severely affected, with impacts on their time, energy, sleep, career, and finances, while siblings were also affected. Symptoms of depression were reported in 47%-70% of caregivers. Mean total direct costs were high across all studies, ranging from $11 048 to $77 914 per patient per year (PPPY), with inpatient admissions being a key cost driver across most studies. Mean costs related to lost productivity were only reported in three publications, ranging from approximately $19 000 to $20 000 PPPY ($17 596 for mothers vs $1564 for fathers). High seizure burden was associated with higher resource utilization, costs and poorer HRQoL. The burden of DS on patients, caregivers, the healthcare system, and society is profound, reflecting the severe nature of the syndrome. Future studies will be able to assess the impact that newly approved therapies have on reducing the burden of DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine‐Main, Center of Neurology and NeurosurgeryGoethe‐University and University Hospital FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER)Goethe‐University FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Lieven Lagae
- Department of Development and RegenerationUniversity Hospitals KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Jo M Wilmshurst
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Neuroscience InstituteUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Andreas Brunklaus
- Paediatric Neurosciences Research GroupRoyal Hospital for ChildrenGlasgowUK
- School of Health and WellbeingUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
| | - Pasquale Striano
- IRCCS ‘G. Gaslini’ InstituteGenovaItaly
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child HealthUniversity of GenoaGenovaItaly
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine‐Main, Center of Neurology and NeurosurgeryGoethe‐University and University Hospital FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER)Goethe‐University FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
| | - Susanne Schubert‐Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine‐Main, Center of Neurology and NeurosurgeryGoethe‐University and University Hospital FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER)Goethe‐University FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
- Department of NeuropediatricsGoethe‐University and University Hospital FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
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23
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Thomas R, Pesut B, Siden H, Treschow M, Puurveen G. Developing competencies for volunteer navigators to support caregivers of children living with medical complexity: a mixed-method e-Delphi study. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231209060. [PMID: 37954463 PMCID: PMC10634257 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231209060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Providing specially trained volunteer navigators is one promising strategy for supporting the increasing number of family caregivers who are caring for children living with medical complexity. Objective The objective of this study was to develop consensus on the role and competencies required for volunteer navigators who support caregivers of children living with medical complexity. Design This was a mixed-method study using modified e-Delphi and focus group methods. In phase 1, a modified e-Delphi survey with 20 family caregivers and a focus group with 4 family caregivers were conducted to develop consensus on their unmet needs and the potential roles of a volunteer to meet those needs. In phase 2, a modified e-Delphi survey was conducted with experts to develop consensus on the volunteer competencies required to meet the roles identified by family caregivers in phase 1. Results Findings from phase 1 resulted in 36 need-related items over 8 domains: communication, daily life and chores, emotional support, information and knowledge, respite, support with decision-making, and sharing the caregiving experience. Concerns about the volunteer role included the potential lack of commitment in the absence of remuneration, the complexity of the child's condition that was beyond the role of a volunteer, and a preference for support from individuals they knew. Findings from the phase 2 Delphi survey with professionals resulted in 22 competencies, derived from the roles identified in phase 1, that would be required of volunteers who wished to support these family caregivers. Conclusion This study provides insight into a role for volunteers in meeting the needs of family caregivers of children living with medical complexity. A volunteer with lived experience and adequate preparation can assist with meeting some of these important needs. Further research is required to better understand the feasibility and acceptability of such a role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Thomas
- The University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Barbara Pesut
- The University of British Columbia Okanagan, 1147 Research Way, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Hal Siden
- The University of British Columbia, Canuck Place Children’s Hospice and BC Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michael Treschow
- The University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Gloria Puurveen
- The University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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24
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Reiber M, von Schumann L, Buchecker V, Boldt L, Gass P, Bleich A, Talbot SR, Potschka H. Evidence-based comparative severity assessment in young and adult mice. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285429. [PMID: 37862304 PMCID: PMC10588901 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In animal-based research, welfare assessments are essential for ethical and legal reasons. However, accurate assessment of suffering in laboratory animals is often complicated by the multidimensional character of distress and pain and the associated affective states. The present study aimed to design and validate multidimensional composite measure schemes comprising behavioral and biochemical parameters based on a bioinformatics approach. Published data sets from induced and genetic mouse models of neurological and psychiatric disorders were subjected to a bioinformatics workflow for cross-model analyses. ROC analyses pointed to a model-specific discriminatory power of selected behavioral parameters. Principal component analyses confirmed that the composite measure schemes developed for adult or young mice provided relevant information with the level of group separation reflecting the expected severity levels. Finally, the validity of the composite measure schemes developed for adult and young mice was further confirmed by k-means-based clustering as a basis for severity classification. The classification systems allowed the allocation of individual animals to different severity levels and a direct comparison of animal groups and other models. In conclusion, the bioinformatics approach confirmed the suitability of the composite measure schemes for evidence-based comparative severity assessment in adult and young mice. In particular, we demonstrated that the composite measure schemes provide a basis for an individualized severity classification in control and experimental groups allowing direct comparison of severity levels across different induced or genetic models. An online tool (R package) is provided, allowing the application of the bioinformatics approach to severity assessment data sets regardless of the parameters or models used. This tool can also be used to validate refinement measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Reiber
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Lara von Schumann
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Verena Buchecker
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Lena Boldt
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Gass
- RG Animal Models in Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Andre Bleich
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science and Central Animal Facility, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Steven Roger Talbot
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science and Central Animal Facility, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heidrun Potschka
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
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25
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Nascimento FA, Hood V, Yap SV, Sheikh IS, Anne Meskis M, Thiele EA. Evaluating adult care in Dravet syndrome upon transferring from pediatrics in the U.S.: A caregiver-based survey study. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 147:109368. [PMID: 37619466 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109368] [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: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Patients with Dravet syndrome (DS) and their caregivers must navigate a complex process upon transitioning from pediatric to adult healthcare settings. Our study examines the state of care transfer of patients with DS in the U.S. A 34-question e-survey evaluating patient demographics, clinical features, and details of the transfer process was sent to caregivers of adults with DS (≥18 years old) residing in the U.S. through the Dravet Syndrome Foundation. Forty-six responses were included in the analysis. Twenty-nine patients (n = 29/46) did not undergo transfer of care - mostly because they were still followed by pediatric neurologists/epileptologists (71%), whereas 17 (n = 17/46) underwent transfer of care. Adult neurology/epilepsy teams providing care never/rarely included a multidisciplinary team (71%), addressed patients' self-advocacy capabilities (53%), or legal guardianship/end-of-life decision-making (59%). Adult neurology/epilepsy teams were considered very much attentive/available (63%), attentive and accommodating to patients with behavioral/cognitive issues (50%), and knowledgeable about caring for patients with intellectual disability/behavioral issues (63%), collaborating with caregivers (75%), and DS - especially in adults (50%). Most caregivers (62.5%) rated the transfer process as good, very good, or excellent. Patients with DS and their caregivers would benefit from more accessible transition programs, which would be ideally equipped to deliver care tailored to these patients' needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio A Nascimento
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | | | - Samantha V Yap
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Irfan S Sheikh
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A Thiele
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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26
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Kim JY, Shin J, Kim L, Kim SH. Electroencephalography characteristics related to risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy in patients with Dravet syndrome. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1222721. [PMID: 37745659 PMCID: PMC10512954 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1222721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the quantitative electroencephalography (EEG) features associated with a high risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) in patients with Dravet syndrome (DS). Methods Patients with DS and healthy controls (HCs) who underwent EEG were included in the study. EEG signals were recorded using a 21 channel digital EEG system, and pre-processed data were analyzed to identify quantitative EEG features associated with a high SUDEP risk. To assess the risk of SUDEP, SUDEP-7 scores were used. Results A total of 64 patients with DS [38 males and 26 females, aged: 128.51 ± 75.50 months (range: 23-380 months)], and 13 HCs [7 males and 6 females, aged: 95.46 ± 86.48 months (range: 13-263 months)] were included. For the absolute band power, the theta power was significantly higher in the high-SUDEP group than in the low-SUDEP group in the central brain region. For the relative band power, the theta power was also significantly higher in the high-SUDEP group than in the low-SUDEP group in the central and occipital brain regions. The alpha power was significantly lower in the high-SUDEP group than in the low-SUDEP group in the central and parietal brain regions. Conclusion Patients with high SUDEP-7 scores have different EEG features from those with low SUDEP-7 scores, suggesting that EEG may be used as a biomarker of SUDEP in DS. Significance Early intervention in patients with DS at a high risk of SUDEP can reduce mortality and morbidity. Patients with high theta band powers warrant high-level supervision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Youn Kim
- Electronics and Telecommunication Research Institute (ETRI), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongyoon Shin
- School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, College of Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Laehyun Kim
- Center for Bionics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of HY-KIST Bio-Convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hee Kim
- Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Epilepsy Research Institute, Severance Children’s Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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27
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Davidson EA, Holingue C, Jimenez-Gomez A, Dallman JE, Moshiree B. Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Genetically Defined Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Semin Neurol 2023; 43:645-660. [PMID: 37586397 PMCID: PMC10895389 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1771460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in most forms of neurodevelopment disorders (NDDs) such as in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The current patient-reported outcome measures with validated questionnaires used in the general population of children without NDDS cannot be used in the autistic individuals. We explore here the multifactorial pathophysiology of ASD and the role of genetics and the environment in this disease spectrum and focus instead on possible diagnostics that could provide future objective insight into the connection of the gut-brain-microbiome in this disease entity. We provide our own data from both humans and a zebrafish model of ASD called Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. We hope that this review highlights the gaps in our current knowledge on many of these profound NDDs and that it provides a future framework upon which clinicians and researchers can build and network with other interested multidisciplinary specialties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Calliope Holingue
- Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andres Jimenez-Gomez
- Neuroscience Center, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Hollywood, Florida
- Department of Child Neurology, Florida Atlantic University Stiles - Nicholson Brain Institute, Jupiter, Florida
| | - Julia E. Dallman
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Miami, Florida
| | - Baharak Moshiree
- Atrium Health, Wake Forest Medical University, Charlotte, North Carolina
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28
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Alonso C, Satta V, Hernández-Fisac I, Fernández-Ruiz J, Sagredo O. Disease-modifying effects of cannabidiol, β-caryophyllene and their combination in Syn1-Cre/Scn1a WT/A1783V mice, a preclinical model of Dravet syndrome. Neuropharmacology 2023:109602. [PMID: 37290534 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) has been recently approved as an antiseizure agent in Dravet Syndrome (DS), a pediatric epileptic encephalopathy, but CBD could also be active against associated comorbidities. Such associated comorbidities were also attenuated by the sesquiterpene β-caryophyllene (BCP). Here, we have compared the efficacy of both compounds and further initiated the analysis of a possible additive effect between both compounds in relation with these comorbidities using two experimental approaches. The first experiment was aimed at comparing the benefits of CBD and BCP, including their combination in conditional knock-in Scn1a-A1783V mice, an experimental model of DS, treated since the postnatal day 10th to 24th. As expected, DS mice showed impairment in limb clasping, delay in the appearance of hindlimb grasp reflex and additional behavioural disturbances (e.g., hyperactivity, cognitive deterioration, social interaction deficits). This behavioural impairment was associated with marked astroglial and microglial reactivities in the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampal dentate gyrus. BCP and CBD administered alone were both able to partially attenuate the behavioural disturbances and the glial reactivities, with apparently greater efficacy against glial reactivities obtained with BCP, whereas superior effects in a few specific parameters were obtained when both compounds were combined. In the second experiment, we investigated this additive effect in cultured BV2 cells treated with BCP and/or CBD and stimulated with LPS. As expected, addition of LPS induced a marked increase in several inflammation-related markers (e.g., TLR4, COX-2, iNOS, catalase, TNF-α, IL-1β), as well as elevated Iba-1 immunostaining. Treatment with BCP or CBD attenuated these elevations, but, again and in general, superior results were obtained when both cannabinoids were combined. In conclusion, our results support the interest to continue investigating the combination of BCP and CBD to improve the therapeutic management of DS in relation with their disease-modifying properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Alonso
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Valentina Satta
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Hernández-Fisac
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Fernández-Ruiz
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Onintza Sagredo
- Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain; Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.
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Reilly C, Bjurulf B, Hallböök T. Intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour in children with Dravet syndrome: A population-based study. Dev Med Child Neurol 2023; 65:831-837. [PMID: 36522847 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM To identify, on a population basis, the prevalence of intellectual disability in children with Dravet syndrome, profiles on a measure of adaptive behaviour, and factors associated with intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour. METHOD Forty-two out of 48 children with Dravet syndrome living in Sweden, born between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2018, underwent assessment of intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour. Factors associated with level of intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour were analysed. RESULTS Eight-six per cent (n = 36) of the children fulfilled DSM-5 criteria for intellectual disability (29% [n = 12] mild intellectual disability, 24% [n = 10] moderate intellectual disability, 33% [n = 14] severe intellectual disability, 0% profound intellectual disability) and 93% (n = 39) had an adaptive behaviour composite more than two standard deviations below the mean. Communication was a significant weakness compared with daily living skills (p < 0.001; mean difference 95% confidence interval [CI] -8.193 to -4.092) and socialization (p = 0.001; mean difference 95% CI 6.511 to -1.775) on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition. The only factors significantly associated with both decreased adaptive behaviour and presence of severe intellectual disability was the presence of increased autistic symptoms and younger age. INTERPRETATION Children with Dravet syndrome have a very high level of intellectual disability and almost all have significant deficits in adaptive behaviour. Greater deficits in adaptive behaviour and greater severity of intellectual disability are associated with the presence of increased autistic symptoms, highlighting the need for comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessment for all affected children. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Eighty-six per cent (n = 36) of children with Dravet syndrome fulfilled criteria for intellectual disability. Ninety-three per cent (n = 39) of children with Dravet syndrome had significant deficits in adaptive behaviour. Communication was a significant weakness on a measure of adaptive behaviour. Increased autistic symptoms were associated with greater deficits in cognition/adaptive behaviour. Older age and earlier status epilepticus were associated with decreased adaptive behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Reilly
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Department of Paediatrics, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Björn Bjurulf
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Department of Paediatrics, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tove Hallböök
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Department of Paediatrics, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D. Emotional experiences of family caregivers of children with Dravet syndrome. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 142:109193. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
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Marshall J, Skrobanski H, Moore-Ramdin L, Kornalska K, Swinburn P, Bowditch S. Caregivers' Perspectives on the Impact of Cannabidiol (CBD) Treatment for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut Syndromes: A Multinational Qualitative Study. J Child Neurol 2023; 38:394-406. [PMID: 37455396 PMCID: PMC10467005 DOI: 10.1177/08830738231185241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To increase understanding of the impact of cannabidiol (CBD) on outcomes beyond seizure control among individuals with Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with caregivers of individuals with Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome treated with plant-derived, highly purified CBD medicine (Epidiolex in the USA; Epidyolex in Europe; 100 mg/mL oral solution). Symptoms and impacts of Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome on individuals were explored, as were the effects of CBD. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Twenty-one caregivers of individuals with Dravet syndrome (n = 14) and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (n = 7) aged 4-22 years participated. Health-related quality of life improvements associated with CBD included cognitive function, communication, behavior, mobility, and participation in daily activities. Seizure frequency reduction was commonly reported (n = 12), resulting in caregivers having greater freedom and family life being less disrupted. Adverse events were reported by 10 caregivers. CONCLUSION In addition to reduced seizure frequency, CBD may have a wide range of beneficial effects beyond seizure control that warrant further investigation.
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Maltseva M, Schubert-Bast S, Zöllner JP, Bast T, Mayer T, von Spiczak S, Ruf S, Trollmann R, Wolff M, Hornemann F, Klotz KA, Jacobs J, Kurlemann G, Neubauer BA, Polster T, Syrbe S, Bertsche A, Bettendorf U, Kluger G, Flege S, Rosenow F, Kay L, Strzelczyk A. Sleep quality, anxiety, symptoms of depression, and caregiver burden among those caring for patients with Dravet syndrome: a prospective multicenter study in Germany. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:98. [PMID: 37120555 PMCID: PMC10148440 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02697-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study measured sleep quality among caregivers of patients with Dravet syndrome (DS) and assessed the impacts of mental health problems and caregiver burden on sleep quality. METHODS This multicenter, cross-sectional study of patients with DS and their caregivers throughout Germany consisted of a questionnaire and a prospective 4-week diary querying disease characteristics, demographic data, living conditions, nocturnal supervision, and caregivers' work situations. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleeping Quality Index (PSQI). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Burden Scale for Family Caregivers (BSFC) were used to measure anxiety, symptoms of depression, and caregiver burden. RESULTS Our analysis included 108 questionnaires and 82 four-week diaries. Patients with DS were 49.1% male (n = 53), with a mean age of 13.5 ± 10.0 years. Caregivers were 92.6% (n = 100) female, with a mean age of 44.7 ± 10.6 years. The overall mean PSQI score was 8.7 ± 3.5, with 76.9% of participants (n = 83) scoring 6 or higher, indicating abnormal sleep quality. The HADS for anxiety and depression had overall mean scores of 9.3 ± 4.3 and 7.9 ± 3.7, respectively; 61.8% and 50.9% of participants scored above the cutoff value of 8 for anxiety and depression, respectively. Statistical analyses revealed caregiver anxiety levels and patients' sleep disturbances as major factors influencing PSQI scores. The overall mean BSFC score of 41.7 ± 11.7 indicates a moderate burden, with 45.3% of caregivers scoring 42 or higher. CONCLUSIONS Sleep quality is severely affected among caregivers of patients with DS, correlating with anxiety, comorbidities, and patients' sleep disturbances. A holistic therapeutic approach should be implemented for patients with DS and their caregivers, focusing on the sleep quality and mental health of caregivers. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), DRKS00016967. Registered 27 May 2019, http://www.drks.de/DRKS00016967.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Maltseva
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Johann Philipp Zöllner
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Bast
- Epilepsy Center Kork, Kehl-Kork, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thomas Mayer
- Epilepsy Center Kleinwachau, Dresden-Radeberg, Germany
| | - Sarah von Spiczak
- Northern German Epilepsy Centre for Children and Adolescents, Kiel-Raisdorf, Germany
| | - Susanne Ruf
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Wolff
- Center of Pediatric Neurology, Vivantes Hospital Neukoelln, Berlin, Germany
- Swiss Epilepsy Center, Klinik Lengg AG, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Frauke Hornemann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Leipzig University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kerstin A Klotz
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Julia Jacobs
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Bernd A Neubauer
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Steffen Syrbe
- Division of Pediatric Epileptology, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Astrid Bertsche
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Rostock, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Gerhard Kluger
- Clinic for Neuropediatrics and Neurorehabilitation, Epilepsy Center for Children and Adolescents, Schoen Clinic Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth, Germany
- Research Institute "Rehabilitation, Transition, and Palliation", PMU Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lara Kay
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D. Emotional experiences of family caregivers of children with Dravet syndrome. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 142:109193. [PMID: 37028149 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the psychosocial implications of Dravet syndrome (DS) are much more serious and far-reaching than in other types of epilepsy, caring for a DS child seriously affects the entire family. This study describes the emotional experiences of family caregivers of DS children and evaluates the way caregiving affects their perceived quality of life. METHODS An anonymous, self-administered online questionnaire was sent to family caregivers of DS children through the online patient advocacy organization the Association for People with Severe Refractory Epilepsy DRAVET.PL. It focussed on the psychosocial impact of caregiving for DS children, the perceived burden of caregiving, caregivers' emotional experiences and feelings related to caregiving, and the impact of DS on the perceived quality of life. RESULTS Caregivers stressed that caring for a DS child is associated with a significant psychosocial and emotional burden that affects the entire family. Although most caregivers reported that it was the child's health problems and behavioral and psychological disorders that were the most challenging aspects of caregiving, they were also burdened by the lack of emotional support. As caregivers were profoundly engaged in caregiving, they experienced a variety of distressing emotions, including feelings of helplessness, anxiety and fear, anticipated grief, depression, and impulsivity. Many caregivers also reported that their children's disease disrupted their relationships with their spouses, family, and healthy children. As caregivers reported experiencing role overload, physical fatigue, and mental exhaustion, they stressed the extent to which caregiving for DS children impaired their quality of life, their social and professional life, and was a source of financial burden. CONCLUSIONS As this study identified specific burden domains affecting DS caregivers' well-being family carers often need special attention, support, and help. To alleviate the humanistic burden of DS carers a bio-psychosocial approach focusing on physical, mental, and psychosocial interventions should include both DS children and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Kravchenko JA, Goldberg EM, Mattis J. Optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulation of seizure threshold in mice. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102019. [PMID: 36640370 PMCID: PMC9846020 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.102019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a protocol using optogenetics or chemogenetics to assess the neuronal circuits contributing to seizure initiation. Both approaches allow for targeted control of neuronal populations in vivo and can be combined with experimental manipulations to acutely induce seizures in rodent models. We describe how to (1) introduce and (2) activate optogenetic or chemogenetic actuators while (3) inducing seizures via hyperthermia in a mouse model of epilepsy. This protocol can be adapted for use in other induced seizure models. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Mattis et al. (2022).1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Kravchenko
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Ethan M Goldberg
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Neurology, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Joanna Mattis
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Patient profile, management, and quality of life associated with Dravet syndrome: a cross-sectional, multicentre study of 80 patients in Spain. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3355. [PMID: 36849632 PMCID: PMC9971205 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30273-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the profile of patients diagnosed with Dravet syndrome (DS), their clinical management, and the impact of DS on their quality of life (QoL) and family. Data of 80 patients from 11 centres in Spain was collected. Patients (47.5% female) were 12.7 (9.6) years on average (SD, standard deviation). Despite the first episode occurred when patients were a mean (SD) of 0.4 (0.2) years, DS was not diagnosed until they were 6.9 (10.1) years old. The majority (86.7%) had SCN1A gene mutations and 73.4% had seizures during the last year (mostly generalized motor seizures [47.8%]). The mean (SD) number of status epilepticus episodes was 3.6 (8.0) since diagnosis and 0.1 (0.5) in the last year. On the Health Utilities Index Mark (HUI) multi-attribute scale, the mean global score (SD) was 0.56 (0.24) in HUI2 and 0.32 (0.37) in HUI3. The impact of the disease was severe in most patients (HUI2, 81%; HUI3, 83.5%). In the Care-related QoL (CarerQol) the mean (SD) well-being score was 7.2 (2.1). Most caregivers (90%) were satisfied with their caregiving tasks, although 75% had difficulties combining these tasks with daily activities, 68.8% reported mental health problems and 61.2% physical problems.
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Hase Y, Takuma S, Hojo T, Nitta Y, Kamekura N. Anesthetic management of a pediatric patient with Dravet syndrome: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e32709. [PMID: 36705365 PMCID: PMC9875994 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dravet syndrome (DS) is a rare and severe myoclonic epilepsy, with onset commonly occurring in infancy. Seizures are triggered by various causes, including fever, bathing, and light stimulus. DS is refractory to drug treatment. Moreover, status epilepticus (SE) can cause serious encephalopathy and epilepsy-related deaths. There are very few reports of general anesthesia in DS patients. Herein, we report our experience with the anesthetic management of a pediatric patient with DS. PATIENT CONCERNS AND DIAGNOSES A 5-year-old boy (height, 112 cm; weight, 19 kg) was diagnosed with DS through SCN1A genetic testing, which revealed a de novo novel missense mutation. His medical history included drug-resistant epilepsy, developmental delay, and hypotonia. His seizures tended to be triggered daily by a rise in body temperature (BT), bathing, and light stimulus. He could not receive adequate dental treatment due to DS, although he had previously undergone dental treatment under restraint at the pediatric dentistry department of our hospital. INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES The patient was scheduled for intensive dental treatment under general anesthesia due to noncooperation, and DS-related limitations. By considering the risk posed by elevated BT, seizure-inducing drugs were avoided, and general anesthesia was completed as planned, uneventfully. Although fluctuation of BT occurred during the procedure, it was finally controlled at the end of anesthesia at about the same level as at anesthesia induction. However, small seizures and a single generalized convulsion were observed accompanied by fever on postoperative day 1. The patient was discharged from the hospital without major problems on postoperative day 3, because of detailed planning and close preoperative cooperation with the attending pediatrician. CONCLUSION It is essential to pay attention to managing BT and to avoid drugs that induce seizures during anesthesia for patients with DS. Cautious preoperative planning for anesthesia based on evaluation of the patient and rapid postoperative response in collaboration with the attending pediatrician is necessary in case an epileptic seizure occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Hase
- Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
- * Correspondence: Yuri Hase, Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita13 Nishi 6, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8586, Japan (e-mail: )
| | - Shigeru Takuma
- Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takayuki Hojo
- Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yukie Nitta
- Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Nobuhito Kamekura
- Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Graduate School of Dental Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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Chiang S, Moss R, Stern JM, Hughes I, Josephson SA, Pearce JR, Kopald BE, Patel AD, Rao VR. Development of a core outcome set for quality of life for adults with drug-resistant epilepsy: A multistakeholder Delphi consensus study. Epilepsia 2023; 64:170-183. [PMID: 36347817 PMCID: PMC11161193 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2017, the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) convened the AAN Quality Measurement Set working group to define the improvement and maintenance of quality of life (QOL) as a key outcome measure in epilepsy clinical practice. A core outcome set (COS), defined as an accepted, standardized set of outcomes that should be minimally measured and reported in an area of health care research and practice, has not previously been defined for QOL in adult epilepsy. METHODS A cross-sectional Delphi consensus study was employed to attain consensus from patients and caregivers on the QOL outcomes that should be minimally measured and reported in epilepsy clinical practice. Candidate items were compiled from QOL scales recommended by the AAN 2017 Quality Measurement Set. Inclusion criteria to participate in the Delphi study were adults with drug-resistant epilepsy diagnosed by a physician, no prior diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures or a cognitive and/or developmental disability, or caregivers of patients meeting these criteria. RESULTS A total of 109 people satisfied inclusion/exclusion criteria and took part in Delphi Round 1 (patients, n = 95, 87.2%; caregivers, n = 14, 12.8%), and 55 people from Round 1 completed Round 2 (patients, n = 43, 78.2%; caregivers, n = 12, 21.8%). One hundred three people took part in the final consensus round. Consensus was attained by patients/caregivers on a set of 36 outcomes that should minimally be included in the QOL COS. Of these, 32 of the 36 outcomes (88.8%) pertained to areas outside of seizure frequency and severity. SIGNIFICANCE Using patient-centered Delphi methodology, this study defines the first COS for QOL measurement in clinical practice for adults with drug-resistant epilepsy. This set highlights the diversity of factors beyond seizure frequency and severity that impact QOL in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Chiang
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - John M. Stern
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Inna Hughes
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - S. Andrew Josephson
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Brandon E. Kopald
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Anup D. Patel
- Department of Pediatrics and Division of Neurology, Center for Clinical Excellence, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Vikram R. Rao
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Bishop KI, Isquith PK, Gioia GA, Knupp KG, Scheffer IE, Nabbout R, Specchio N, Sullivan J, Auvin S, Helen Cross J, Guerrini R, Farfel G, Galer BS, Gammaitoni AR. Fenfluramine treatment is associated with improvement in everyday executive function in preschool-aged children (<5 years) with Dravet syndrome: A critical period for early neurodevelopment. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 138:108994. [PMID: 36463826 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether fenfluramine (FFA) is associated with improvement in everyday executive function (EF)-self-regulation-in preschool-aged children with Dravet syndrome (DS). METHODS Children with DS received placebo or FFA in one of two phase III studies (first study: placebo, FFA 0.2 mg/kg/day, or FFA 0.7 mg/kg/day added to stiripentol-free standard-of-care regimens; second study: placebo or FFA 0.4 mg/kg/day added to stiripentol-inclusive regimens). Everyday EF was evaluated at baseline and Week 14-15 for children aged 2-4 years with parent ratings on the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function®-Preschool (BRIEF®-P); raw scores were transformed to T-scores and summarized in Inhibitory Self-Control Index (ISCI), Flexibility Index (FI), Emergent Metacognition Index (EMI), and Global Executive Composite (GEC). Clinically meaningful improvement and worsening were defined using RCI ≥ 90% and RCI ≥ 80% certainty, respectively. The associations between placebo vs FFA combined (0.2, 0.4, and 0.7 mg/kg/day) or individual treatment groups and the likelihood of clinically meaningful change in BRIEF®-P indexes/composite T-scores were evaluated using Somers'd; pairwise comparisons were calculated by 2-sided Fisher's Exact tests (p ≤ 0.05) and Cramér's V. RESULTS Data were analyzed for 61 evaluable children of median age 3 years (placebo, n = 22; FFA 0.2 mg/kg/day, n = 15; 0.4 mg/kg/day [with stiripentol], n = 10; 0.7 mg/kg/day, n = 14 [total FFA, n = 39]). Elevated or problematic T-scores (T ≥ 65) were reported in 55% to 86% of patients at baseline for ISCI, EMI, and GEC, and in ∼33% for FI. Seventeen of the 61 children (28%) showed reliable, clinically meaningful improvement (RCI ≥ 90% certainty) in at least one BRIEF®-P index/composite, including a majority of the children in the FFA 0.7 mg/kg/day group (9/14, 64%). Only 53% of these children (9/17) also experienced clinically meaningful reduction (≥50%) in monthly convulsive seizure frequency, including 6/14 patients in the FFA 0.7 mg/kg/day group. Overall, there were positive associations between the four individual treatment groups and the likelihood of reliable, clinically meaningful improvement in all BRIEF®-P indexes/composite (ISCI, p = 0.001; FI, p = 0.005; EMI, p = 0.040; GEC, p = 0.002). The FFA 0.7 mg/kg/day group showed a greater likelihood of reliable, clinically meaningful improvement than placebo in ISCI (50% vs 5%; p = 0.003), FI (36% vs 0%; p = 0.005), and GEC (36% vs 0%; p = 0.005). For EMI, the FFA 0.7 mg/kg/day group showed a greater likelihood of reliable, clinically meaningful improvement than the FFA 0.2 mg/kg/day group (29% vs 0%; p = 0.040), but did not meet the significance threshold compared with placebo (29% vs 5%; p = 0.064). There were no significant associations between treatment and the likelihood of reliable, clinically meaningful worsening (p > 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE In this preschool-aged DS population with high baseline everyday EF impairment, FFA treatment for 14-15 weeks was associated with dose-dependent, clinically meaningful improvements in regulating behavior, emotion, cognition, and overall everyday EF. These clinically meaningful improvements in everyday EF were not entirely due to seizure frequency reduction, suggesting that FFA may have direct effects on everyday EF during the early formative years of neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter K Isquith
- Global Pharma Consultancy, LLC, Muncy, PA, USA; Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gerard A Gioia
- Global Pharma Consultancy, LLC, Muncy, PA, USA; Children's National Health System, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- University of Melbourne, Austin and Royal Children's Hospitals, Florey Institute and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rima Nabbout
- Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP, Member of EPICARE, Institut Imagine, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | | | - Joseph Sullivan
- University of California San Francisco, Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Stéphane Auvin
- Robert Debré Children's Hospital, APHP, Université de Paris, Paris, France; Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - J Helen Cross
- UCL NIHR BRC Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Renzo Guerrini
- Anna Meyer Children's Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gail Farfel
- Formerly Zogenix, Inc., now a part of UCB, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Bradley S Galer
- Formerly Zogenix, Inc., now a part of UCB, Emeryville, CA, USA
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Meskis MA. Improving the quality of life for adults with Dravet syndrome. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 65:732-733. [PMID: 36426907 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Reiber M, Miljanovic N, Schönhoff K, Palme R, Potschka H. Behavioral phenotyping of young Scn1a haploinsufficient mice. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 136:108903. [PMID: 36240579 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108903] [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: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome is a rare, severe, infancy-onset epileptic encephalopathy associated with a high premature mortality. In most patients, Dravet syndrome is caused by a heterozygous loss-of-function mutation in the SCN1A gene encoding the alpha 1 subunit of the sodium channel. Of the variety of SCN1A variants identified in patients with Dravet syndrome, SCN1A missense mutations occur in one-third of cases. The novel Scn1a-A1783V mouse model of Dravet syndrome carries the human Ala1783Val missense variant. Recently, the behavioral phenotype of Scn1a-A1783V haploinsufficient adult mice has been characterized, which may provide a valuable basis for assessment of novel therapeutic approaches. However, there is still limited information on the developmental course of behavioral alterations in the Scn1a-A1783V mouse model, which is of particular relevance for conclusions about face validity and severity classification of the model. Based on reference data from young wildtype mice, we analyzed selected behavioral parameters and fecal corticosterone metabolites in the Scn1a-A1783V mouse model during post-weaning development. Differences in the preference for a sweet saccharin solution between Dravet mice and wildtype mice were observed once mice reached sexual maturity. Nest building behavior was already influenced by the Scn1a genotype during prepubescence. Sexually mature Dravet mice showed a significantly reduced burrowing performance as compared to their wildtype littermates. In the open-field test, pronounced hyperactivity and increased thigmotactic behavior were evident in prepubescent and sexually mature Dravet mice. Analysis of Irwin scores revealed several genotype-dependent changes in handling-associated parameters during the course of adolescence. The information obtained provides insight into the age-dependence of behavioral patterns in the novel Scn1a-A1783V mouse model of Dravet syndrome. In addition, the dataset confirms the suitability of the applied behavioral composite measure scheme for evidence-based assessment of cumulative severity in genetic mouse lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Reiber
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Nina Miljanovic
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany; Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN), Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Schönhoff
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Rupert Palme
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Experimental Endocrinology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heidrun Potschka
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany.
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Lo Barco T, Offredi F, Castino E, Proietti J, Cossu A, Fiorini E, Fontana E, Cantalupo G, Dalla Bernardina B, Darra F. Adaptive behaviour in adolescents and adults with Dravet syndrome. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 65:838-846. [PMID: 36316303 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To explore the feasibility of using an adaptive behaviour profile (ABP) assessment generated from a well-known measure-the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition (VABS-II)-as an instrument for outcome measures in adolescents and adults with Dravet syndrome. METHOD We administered the VABS-II to 35 adolescents and adults with Dravet syndrome (15 males; mean age 24 years, SD 8 years, range: 12-46 years) and collected epilepsy history and neurological features at the time of assessment. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of VABS-II raw scores and performed cluster analysis to identify different subgroups. We then explored possible relationships between clinical and epilepsy features, ABPs, and age. RESULTS Most participants obtained the minimum standard scores in the various VABS-II subdomains, while the raw score analysis outlined interindividual and intraindividual differences among skills. We found two subpopulations: one with a 'lower' ABP and one with a 'higher' ABP, corresponding respectively to individuals in whom myoclonic seizures or generalized spike-and-wave activity were present ('complete phenotype') or absent ('incomplete phenotype') on electroencephalography. INTERPRETATION This study further delineates the natural history of Dravet syndrome. The assessment of an ABP through the VABS-II raw score analysis provides a means by which to illustrate profiles of adaptive behaviour in adolescents and adults with Dravet syndrome but shows limitations related to poor sensitivity in measuring fine clinical details. There is a need for new and more specific tools to monitor patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Lo Barco
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Program in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Offredi
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Eva Castino
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Jacopo Proietti
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alberto Cossu
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Fiorini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elena Fontana
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gaetano Cantalupo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dalla Bernardina
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Darra
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies Verona, Verona, Italy
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He Z, Li Y, Zhao X, Li B. Dravet Syndrome: Advances in Etiology, Clinical Presentation, and Treatment. Epilepsy Res 2022; 188:107041. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.107041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Suvekbala V, Ramachandran H, Veluchamy A, Mascarenhas MAB, Ramprasath T, Nair MKC, Garikipati VNS, Gundamaraju R, Subbiah R. The Promising Epigenetic Regulators for Refractory Epilepsy: An Adventurous Road Ahead. Neuromolecular Med 2022:10.1007/s12017-022-08723-0. [DOI: 10.1007/s12017-022-08723-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Clayton LM, Williams E, Balestrini S, Sisodiya SM. Case report: Dravet syndrome, feeding difficulties and gastrostomy. Front Neurol 2022; 13:993906. [PMID: 36176564 PMCID: PMC9513453 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.993906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy associated with variants in the voltage-gated sodium channel alpha 1 subunit (SCN1A) gene in around 90% of individuals. The core phenotype is well-recognized, and is characterized by seizure onset in infancy, typically with prolonged febrile seizures, followed by the emergence of multiple seizure types that are frequently drug-resistant, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. Comorbidities are common and include autism spectrum disorder, gait impairment, scoliosis, and sleep disorder. Feeding difficulties and weight loss are frequently reported by DS caregivers, and negatively impact quality of life, yet have received little attention. Here we report an adult with DS who developed reduced food and fluid intake in adolescence, resulting in weight loss and malnutrition. No underlying cause for her feeding difficulties was identified, and she subsequently required insertion of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. We review the occurrence of feeding difficulties in people with DS and discuss potential mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Clayton
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - Simona Balestrini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
- Department of Pediatrics, Meyer Children's University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Sanjay M. Sisodiya
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
- Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Sanjay M. Sisodiya
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Aledo-Serrano Á, Mingorance A, Villanueva V, García-Peñas JJ, Gil-Nagel A, Boronat S, Aibar J, Cámara S, Yániz MJ, Aras LM, Blanco B, Sánchez-Carpintero R. The Charlotte Project: Recommendations for patient-reported outcomes and clinical parameters in Dravet syndrome through a qualitative and Delphi consensus study. Front Neurol 2022; 13:975034. [PMID: 36119672 PMCID: PMC9481303 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.975034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The appropriate management of patients with Dravet Syndrome (DS) is challenging, given the severity of symptoms and the burden of the disease for patients and caregivers. This study aimed to identify, through a qualitative methodology and a Delphi consensus-driven process, a set of recommendations for the management of DS to guide clinicians in the assessment of the clinical condition and quality of life (QoL) of DS patients, with a special focus on patient- and caregiver-reported outcomes (PROs). Methods This study was conducted in five phases, led by a multidisciplinary scientific committee (SC) including pediatric neurologists, epileptologists, a neuropsychologist, an epilepsy nurse, and members of DS patient advocates. In phases 1 and 2, a questionnaire related to patients' QoL was prepared and answered by caregivers and the SC. In phase 3, the SC generated, based on these answers and on a focus group discussion, a 70-item Delphi questionnaire, covering six topic categories on a nine-point Likert scale. In phase 4, 32 panelists, from different Spanish institutions and with a multidisciplinary background, answered the questionnaire. Consensus was obtained and defined as strong or moderate if ≥80% and 67–79% of panelists, respectively, rated the statement with ≥7. Phase 5 consisted of the preparation of the manuscript. Results The panelists agreed on a total of 69 items (98.6%), 54 (77.14%), and 15 (21.43%) with strong and moderate consensus, respectively. The experts' recommendations included the need for frequent assessment of patient and caregivers QoL parameters. The experts agreed that QoL should be assessed through specific questionnaires covering different domains. Likewise, the results showed consensus regarding the regular evaluation of several clinical parameters related to neurodevelopment, attention, behavior, other comorbidities, and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). A consensus was also reached on the instruments, specific parameters, and caregivers' education in the routine clinical management of patients with DS. Conclusions This consensus resulted in a set of recommendations for the assessment of clinical and QoL parameters, including PROs, related to the general evaluation of QoL, neurodevelopment, attention, behavior, other comorbidities affecting QoL, SUDEP, and QoL of caregivers/relatives and patients with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Aledo-Serrano
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Ángel Aledo-Serrano
| | - Ana Mingorance
- Dracaena Consulting SL, Loulou Foundation, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Antonio Gil-Nagel
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Silvia Cámara
- Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Madrid, Spain
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Bjurulf B, Reilly C, Hallböök T. Caregiver reported seizure precipitants and measures to prevent seizures in children with Dravet syndrome. Seizure 2022; 103:3-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Tanenhaus A, Stowe T, Young A, McLaughlin J, Aeran R, Lin IW, Li J, Hosur R, Chen M, Leedy J, Chou T, Pillay S, Vila MC, Kearney JA, Moorhead M, Belle A, Tagliatela S. Cell-Selective Adeno-Associated Virus-Mediated SCN1A Gene Regulation Therapy Rescues Mortality and Seizure Phenotypes in a Dravet Syndrome Mouse Model and Is Well Tolerated in Nonhuman Primates. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:579-597. [PMID: 35435735 PMCID: PMC9242722 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy caused by monoallelic loss-of-function variants in the SCN1A gene. SCN1A encodes for the alpha subunit of the voltage-gated type I sodium channel (NaV1.1), the primary voltage-gated sodium channel responsible for generation of action potentials in GABAergic inhibitory interneurons. In these studies, we tested the efficacy of an adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) SCN1A gene regulation therapy, AAV9-REGABA-eTFSCN1A, designed to target transgene expression to GABAergic inhibitory neurons and reduce off-target expression within excitatory cells, in the Scn1a+/- mouse model of DS. Biodistribution and preliminary safety were evaluated in nonhuman primates (NHPs). AAV9-REGABA-eTFSCN1A was engineered to upregulate SCN1A expression levels within GABAergic inhibitory interneurons to correct the underlying haploinsufficiency and circuit dysfunction. A single bilateral intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of AAV9-REGABA-eTFSCN1A in Scn1a+/- postnatal day 1 mice led to increased SCN1A mRNA transcripts, specifically within GABAergic inhibitory interneurons, and NaV1.1 protein levels in the brain. This was associated with a significant decrease in the occurrence of spontaneous and hyperthermia-induced seizures, and prolonged survival for over a year. In NHPs, delivery of AAV9-REGABA-eTFSCN1A by unilateral ICV injection led to widespread vector biodistribution and transgene expression throughout the brain, including key structures involved in epilepsy and cognitive behaviors, such as hippocampus and cortex. AAV9-REGABA-eTFSCN1A was well tolerated, with no adverse events during administration, no detectable changes in clinical observations, no adverse findings in histopathology, and no dorsal root ganglion-related toxicity. Our results support the clinical development of AAV9-REGABA-eTFSCN1A (ETX101) as an effective and targeted disease-modifying approach to SCN1A+ DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Tanenhaus
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Timothy Stowe
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Andrew Young
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - John McLaughlin
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Rangoli Aeran
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - I. Winnie Lin
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jianmin Li
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Ming Chen
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jennifer Leedy
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Tiffany Chou
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sirika Pillay
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Jennifer A. Kearney
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Martin Moorhead
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Archana Belle
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Stephanie Tagliatela
- Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA.,Correspondence: Stephanie Tagliatela, Encoded Therapeutics, Inc., 341 Oyster Point Boulevard, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.
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48
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The clinical, economic, and humanistic burden of Dravet syndrome - A systematic literature review. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 130:108661. [PMID: 35334258 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy with evolving disease course as individuals age. In recent years, the treatment landscape of DS has changed considerably, and a comprehensive systematic review of the contemporary literature is lacking. Here we synthesized published evidence on the occurrence of clinical impacts by age, the economic and humanistic (health-related quality-of-life [HRQoL]) burden, and health state utility. We provide an evidence-based, contemporary visualization of the clinical manifestations, highlighting that DS is not limited to seizures; non-seizure manifestations appear early in life and increase over time, contributing significantly to the economic and humanistic burden of disease. The primary drivers of HRQoL in DS include seizure severity, cognition, and motor and behavioral problems; in turn, these directly affect caregivers through the extent of assistance required and consequent impact on activities of daily living. Unsurprisingly, costs are driven by seizure-related events, hospitalizations, and in-home medical care visits. This systematic review highlights a paucity of longitudinal data; most studies meeting inclusion criteria were cross-sectional or had short follow-up. Nonetheless, available data illustrate the substantial impact on individuals, their families, and healthcare systems and establish the need for novel therapies to address the complex spectrum of DS manifestations.
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49
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Mattis J, Somarowthu A, Goff KM, Jiang E, Yom J, Sotuyo N, Mcgarry LM, Feng H, Kaneko K, Goldberg EM. Corticohippocampal circuit dysfunction in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. eLife 2022; 11:e69293. [PMID: 35212623 PMCID: PMC8920506 DOI: 10.7554/elife.69293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder due to pathogenic variants in SCN1A encoding the Nav1.1 sodium channel subunit, characterized by treatment-resistant epilepsy, temperature-sensitive seizures, developmental delay/intellectual disability with features of autism spectrum disorder, and increased risk of sudden death. Convergent data suggest hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) pathology in DS (Scn1a+/-) mice. We performed two-photon calcium imaging in brain slice to uncover a profound dysfunction of filtering of perforant path input by DG in young adult Scn1a+/- mice. This was not due to dysfunction of DG parvalbumin inhibitory interneurons (PV-INs), which were only mildly impaired at this timepoint; however, we identified enhanced excitatory input to granule cells, suggesting that circuit dysfunction is due to excessive excitation rather than impaired inhibition. We confirmed that both optogenetic stimulation of entorhinal cortex and selective chemogenetic inhibition of DG PV-INs lowered seizure threshold in vivo in young adult Scn1a+/- mice. Optogenetic activation of PV-INs, on the other hand, normalized evoked responses in granule cells in vitro. These results establish the corticohippocampal circuit as a key locus of pathology in Scn1a+/- mice and suggest that PV-INs retain powerful inhibitory function and may be harnessed as a potential therapeutic approach toward seizure modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Mattis
- Department of Neurology, The Perelman School of Medicine at The University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Ala Somarowthu
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Kevin M Goff
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Evan Jiang
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Jina Yom
- College of Arts and Sciences, The University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Nathaniel Sotuyo
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Laura M Mcgarry
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Huijie Feng
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Keisuke Kaneko
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Ethan M Goldberg
- Department of Neurology, The Perelman School of Medicine at The University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children’s Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaUnited States
- Department of Neuroscience, The Perelman School of Medicine at The University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
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50
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Studtmann C, Ladislav M, Topolski MA, Safari M, Swanger SA. NaV1.1 haploinsufficiency impairs glutamatergic and GABAergic neuron function in the thalamus. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 167:105672. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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