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Berg AT, Thompson CH, Myers LS, Anderson E, Evans L, Kaiser AJE, Paltell K, Nili AN, DeKeyser JML, Abramova TV, Nesbitt G, Egan SM, Vanoye CG, George AL. Expanded clinical phenotype spectrum correlates with variant function in SCN2A-related disorders. Brain 2024; 147:2761-2774. [PMID: 38651838 PMCID: PMC11292900 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae125] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
SCN2A-related disorders secondary to altered function in the voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.2 are rare, with clinically heterogeneous expressions that include epilepsy, autism and multiple severe to profound impairments and other conditions. To advance understanding of the clinical phenotypes and their relationship to channel function, 81 patients (36 female, 44%, median age 5.4 years) with 69 unique SCN2A variants were systematically phenotyped and their Nav1.2 channel function systematically assessed. Participants were recruited through the FamileSCN2A Foundation. Primary phenotype (epilepsy of neonatal onset, n = 27; infant onset, n = 18; and later onset n = 24; and autism without seizures, n = 12) was strongly correlated with a non-seizure severity index (P = 0.002), which was based on presence of severe impairments in gross motor, fine motor, communication abilities, gastrostomy tube dependence and diagnosis of cortical visual impairment and scoliosis. Non-seizure severity was greatest in the neonatal-onset group and least in the autism group (P = 0.002). Children with the lowest severity indices were still severely impaired, as reflected by an average Vineland Adaptive Behavior composite score of 49.5 (>3 standard deviations below the norm-referenced mean of the test). Epileptic spasms were significantly more common in infant-onset (67%) than in neonatal (22%) or later-onset (29%) epilepsy (P = 0.007). Primary phenotype was also strongly correlated with variant function (P < 0.0001); gain-of-function and mixed function variants predominated in neonatal-onset epilepsy, shifting to moderate loss of function in infant-onset epilepsy and to severe and complete loss of function in later-onset epilepsy and autism groups. Exploratory cluster analysis identified five groups, representing: (i) primarily later-onset epilepsy with moderate loss-of-function variants and low severity indices; (ii) mostly infant-onset epilepsy with moderate loss-of-function variants but higher severity indices; and (iii) late-onset and autism only, with the lowest severity indices (mostly zero) and severe/complete loss-of-function variants. Two exclusively neonatal clusters were distinguished from each other largely on non-seizure severity scores and secondarily on variant function. The relationship between primary phenotype and variant function emphasizes the role of developmental factors in the differential clinical expression of SCN2A variants based on their effects on Nav1.2 channel function. The non-seizure severity of SCN2A disorders depends on a combination of the age at seizure onset (primary phenotype) and variant function. As precision therapies for SCN2A-related disorders advance towards clinical trials, knowledge of the relationship between variant function and clinical disease expression will be valuable for identifying appropriate patients for these trials and in selecting efficient clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- FamilieSCN2A Foundation, Longmeadow, MA 10116, USA
| | - Christopher H Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | | | - Erica Anderson
- Institute for Innovations in Developmental Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Lindsey Evans
- Department of Psychology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - Ariela J E Kaiser
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - Katherine Paltell
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
| | - Amanda N Nili
- Department of Medical and Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jean-Marc L DeKeyser
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Tatiana V Abramova
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | | | - Shawn M Egan
- FamilieSCN2A Foundation, Longmeadow, MA 10116, USA
| | - Carlos G Vanoye
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Alfred L George
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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2
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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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Cross JH, Benítez A, Roth J, Andrews JS, Shah D, Butcher E, Jones A, Sullivan J. A comprehensive systematic literature review of the burden of illness of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome on patients, caregivers, and society. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1224-1239. [PMID: 38456647 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17932] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Fully elucidating the burden that Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) places on individuals with the disease and their caregivers is critical to improving outcomes and quality of life (QoL). This systematic literature review evaluated the global burden of illness of LGS, including clinical symptom burden, care requirements, QoL, comorbidities, caregiver burden, economic burden, and treatment burden (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022317413). MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for articles that met predetermined criteria. After screening 1442 deduplicated articles and supplementary manual searches, 113 articles were included for review. A high clinical symptom burden of LGS was identified, with high seizure frequency and nonseizure symptoms (including developmental delay and intellectual disability) leading to low QoL and substantial care requirements for individuals with LGS, with the latter including daily function assistance for mobility, eating, and toileting. Multiple comorbidities were identified, with intellectual disorders having the highest prevalence. Although based on few studies, a high caregiver burden was also identified, which was associated with physical problems (including fatigue and sleep disturbances), social isolation, poor mental health, and financial difficulties. Most economic analyses focused on the high direct costs of LGS, which arose predominantly from medically treated seizure events, inpatient costs, and medication requirements. Pharmacoresistance was common, and many individuals required polytherapy and treatment changes over time. Few studies focused on the humanistic burden. Quality concerns were noted for sample representativeness, disease and outcome measures, and reporting clarity. In summary, a high burden of LGS on individuals, caregivers, and health care systems was identified, which may be alleviated by reducing the clinical symptom burden. These findings highlight the need for a greater understanding of and better definitions for the broad spectrum of LGS symptoms and development of treatments to alleviate nonseizure symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Helen Cross
- University College London National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Arturo Benítez
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeannine Roth
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J Scott Andrews
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Drishti Shah
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Joseph Sullivan
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Yuan Y, Lopez-Santiago L, Denomme N, Chen C, O'Malley HA, Hodges SL, Ji S, Han Z, Christiansen A, Isom LL. Antisense oligonucleotides restore excitability, GABA signalling and sodium current density in a Dravet syndrome model. Brain 2024; 147:1231-1246. [PMID: 37812817 PMCID: PMC10994531 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad349] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome is an intractable developmental and epileptic encephalopathy caused by de novo variants in SCN1A resulting in haploinsufficiency of the voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.1. We showed previously that administration of the antisense oligonucleotide STK-001, also called ASO-22, generated using targeted augmentation of nuclear gene output technology to prevent inclusion of the nonsense-mediated decay, or poison, exon 20N in human SCN1A, increased productive Scn1a transcript and Nav1.1 expression and reduced the incidence of electrographic seizures and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome. Here, we investigated the mechanism of action of ASO-84, a surrogate for ASO-22 that also targets splicing of SCN1A exon 20N, in Scn1a+/- Dravet syndrome mouse brain. Scn1a +/- Dravet syndrome and wild-type mice received a single intracerebroventricular injection of antisense oligonucleotide or vehicle at postnatal Day 2. We examined the electrophysiological properties of cortical pyramidal neurons and parvalbumin-positive fast-spiking interneurons in brain slices at postnatal Days 21-25 and measured sodium currents in parvalbumin-positive interneurons acutely dissociated from postnatal Day 21-25 brain slices. We show that, in untreated Dravet syndrome mice, intrinsic cortical pyramidal neuron excitability was unchanged while cortical parvalbumin-positive interneurons showed biphasic excitability with initial hyperexcitability followed by hypoexcitability and depolarization block. Dravet syndrome parvalbumin-positive interneuron sodium current density was decreased compared to wild-type. GABAergic signalling to cortical pyramidal neurons was reduced in Dravet syndrome mice, suggesting decreased GABA release from interneurons. ASO-84 treatment restored action potential firing, sodium current density and GABAergic signalling in Dravet syndrome parvalbumin-positive interneurons. Our work suggests that interneuron excitability is selectively affected by ASO-84. This new work provides critical insights into the mechanism of action of this antisense oligonucleotide and supports the potential of antisense oligonucleotide-mediated upregulation of Nav1.1 as a successful strategy to treat Dravet syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukun Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Luis Lopez-Santiago
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Nicholas Denomme
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Chunling Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Heather A O'Malley
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Samantha L Hodges
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sophina Ji
- Stoke Therapeutics, Inc., Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Zhou Han
- Stoke Therapeutics, Inc., Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | | | - Lori L Isom
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Warren AEL, Tobochnik S, Chua MMJ, Singh H, Stamm MA, Rolston JD. Neurostimulation for Generalized Epilepsy: Should Therapy be Syndrome-specific? Neurosurg Clin N Am 2024; 35:27-48. [PMID: 38000840 PMCID: PMC10676463 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2023.08.001] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Current applications of neurostimulation for generalized epilepsy use a one-target-fits-all approach that is agnostic to the specific epilepsy syndrome and seizure type being treated. The authors describe similarities and differences between the 2 "archetypes" of generalized epilepsy-Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy-and review recent neuroimaging evidence for syndrome-specific brain networks underlying seizures. Implications for stimulation targeting and programming are discussed using 5 clinical questions: What epilepsy syndrome does the patient have? What brain networks are involved? What is the optimal stimulation target? What is the optimal stimulation paradigm? What is the plan for adjusting stimulation over time?
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron E L Warren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Steven Tobochnik
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa M J Chua
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hargunbir Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michaela A Stamm
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John D Rolston
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Bliss ND, Patel AD, Dixon-Salazar T, Zhang L, LoPresti MA, Carroll M, Rosenman M, Lam S. Patient family engagement and partnership: Pilot survey results in assessing behavior, communication, and quality of life in children with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and other drug-resistant epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 148:109451. [PMID: 37783029 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109451] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) and other drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) can impact behavior, communication, and quality of life (QoL). In collaboration with community engagement efforts with the Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome Foundation (LGSF), we aimed to gain an initial snapshot of patient and family perspectives and experiences with evaluation of behavior, communication, and QoL. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect self-reported information from caregivers of children with LGS and other DRE regarding their perspectives and experiences with healthcare providers' evaluation of behavior, communication, and QoL. The survey tool was developed by the study investigators in partnership with the LGS Foundation and had diffused to caregivers online by epilepsy advocacy groups including the Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Alliance (PESA). Responses were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were calculated. The survey asked for caregiver perspectives and assessed which instruments the caregivers had previously been given for measuring these domains. RESULTS Responses from 245 caregivers were included, with 132 (54%) caregivers of an individual with LGS and 113 (46%) caregivers of an individual with non-LGS related DRE. Respondents reported that 66% of their loved ones had undergone epilepsy-related surgery. Over 90% agreed that measuring behavior, communication, and QoL was important, but fewer than half felt that their healthcare providers evaluated these domains well. LGS caregivers largely shared non-LGS caregivers' perspectives; however, they reported more frequently that communication was not evaluated enough. Barriers to measuring these domains included a lack of good surveys (developmentally appropriate and specific to the type of epilepsy) or not receiving any survey instruments for these domains during clinic appointments. Caregivers play a crucial role for individuals with DRE, and their input is essential in identifying challenges and needs. Caregivers believe that measuring behavior, communication, and quality of life is important, and most of them feel that their loved ones are not adequately evaluated during their healthcare encounters. There is a need for appropriately scaled survey instruments to measure areas of importance for patients and caregivers, as well as incorporation of these outcomes in the healthcare discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan D Bliss
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anup D Patel
- Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; The Center for Clinical Excellence, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Lu Zhang
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Melissa A LoPresti
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maura Carroll
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Marc Rosenman
- Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research, and Evaluation Center (SCHORE), Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sandi Lam
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA; Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research, and Evaluation Center (SCHORE), Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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7
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Berg AT, Kaat AJ, Gaebler-Spira D. Measuring the inch stones for progress: Gross motor function in the developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 137:108953. [PMID: 36368092 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) entail moderate to profound impairments in gross motor skills and mobility, which are poorly quantified with clinical outcomes assessments (COA) used in neuro-typical populations. We studied the motor domain of the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-3 for ages 0-5 years (ABAS) used outside of its intended age range with a focus on raw scores. METHODS In a cross-sectional survey, 117 parents of children with a variety of DEEs (ages 1-35 years, median = 9) completed the motor domain section of the ABAS. Floor and ceiling effects and associations with epilepsy-related factors were assessed with appropriate parametric and nonparametric statistical techniques. The sensitivity of the ABAS and additional measures of mobility borrowed from the cerebral palsy literature (Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ-22) walking level (FAQ-WL)) to different levels of the Functional Mobility Scale was determined. RESULTS ABAS motor scores corresponded to a median age equivalent of 20.5 months (Inter-Quartile Range (IQR) 8-34). Most raw scores corresponded to standardized scores > 2 standard deviations below the ABAS standardization sample mean. ABAS raw scores demonstrated minimal floor and ceiling effects (<5%). In linear regression models, scores increased with age under 6 years (p < 0.0001) but flattened out thereafter. Scores varied substantially by DEE group (p < 0.001) and decreased with higher convulsive seizure frequency (<0.0001) and number of seizure medications (p < 0.001). ABAS and other motor scores were sensitive to important differences in mobility as represented by the FMS at 5 yards. Further, they correlated with declines in mobility function from 5 to 500 yards. SIGNIFICANCE An out-of-range COA with raw scores may provide a measure of motor ability and mobility sensitive within the range of moderate to profound impairment seen in patients with DEE. This approach could shorten the time to appropriate COA development and ensure timely clinical trial readiness for novel therapies for rare DEEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- COMBINEDBrain, Nashville, TN, United States; Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Chicago, IL, United States.
| | - Aaron J Kaat
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Deborah Gaebler-Spira
- Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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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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Dalic LJ, Warren AE, Malpas CB, Thevathasan W, Roten A, Bulluss KJ, Archer JS. Cognition, adaptive skills and epilepsy disability/severity in patients with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome undergoing deep brain stimulation for epilepsy in the ESTEL trial. Seizure 2022; 101:67-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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10
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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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11
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Kolaski K. Are anti-seizure medications effective and safe treatments for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome? A Cochrane Review summary with commentary. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:678-680. [PMID: 35322410 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15208] [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: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kat Kolaski
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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12
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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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13
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Pangalila R, van der Meulen I. What is the effect of pharmacological treatment for continuous spike-wave during slow wave sleep syndrome and Landau-Kleffner syndrome? A Cochrane Review summary with commentary. Dev Med Child Neurol 2022; 64:411-412. [PMID: 35064927 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15137] [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: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Pangalila
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Rijndam Rehabilitation, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ineke van der Meulen
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Rijndam Rehabilitation, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Rare diseases - rare outcomes: Assessing communication abilities for the developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 128:108586. [PMID: 35158285 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) entail moderate to profound communication and other impairments that are poorly measured by typical clinical outcomes assessments (COA). We examined the potential of alternative approaches, specifically, the use of raw scores and COAs outside of their intended age ranges. METHODS In a cross-sectional survey, 120 parents of children with Dravet Syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, KCNQ2-DEE, KCNB1-DEE, and SCN2A-DEE (ages 1-35 years) completed the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-3 for ages 0-5 years, modified checklist for autism (mCHAT), communication and social behavior scales (CSBS), communication matrix (CM), and several parent-reported classifiers of communication. Adaptive Behavior Assessment System communication and social raw scores were the primary and adjunctive outcomes. Floor and ceiling effects, dispersion and convergence with related measures were assessed with appropriate parametric and nonparametric statistical techniques. RESULTS Median chronological age (CA) was 8.7 years (Interquartile range (IQR): 5.3-13.5). Adaptive Behavior Assessment Systemcommunication and social age equivalents were 12.5 months (IQR 7.5-28) and 16.5 months (IQR 9-31). Most raw scores corresponded to standardized scores indicating performance <3 standard deviations below the general population mean. Adaptive Behavior Assessment System raw scores demonstrated minimal floor and ceiling effects (<1-2.5%). In linear regression models, scores correlated with age under 6 years (communication, p = 0.001; social, p = 0.003) but significantly flattened out thereafter. Scores varied substantially by DEE group (both p < 0.001) and decreased with higher convulsive seizure frequency (communication, p = 0.01, social, p = 0.02). There was good convergence with mCHAT, CSBS, and CM scores (all r > 0.8). SIGNIFICANCE Raw scores and out-of-range COAs may provide measures that are sensitive at the very limited levels of functioning typical of profoundly impaired, older patients with DEEs. To ensure that targeted trial outcomes are responsive to meaningful change, development of these approaches will be essential to clinical trial readiness for novel therapies for rare DEEs.
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15
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Lo Barco T, De Gaetano L, Santangelo E, Bravi T, Proietti J, Cantalupo G, Brambilla I, Darra F. SYNGAP1-related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy: The impact on daily life. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 127:108500. [PMID: 34954508 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
SYNGAP1-developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (SYNGAP1-DEE) has been recently featured as a distinct genetic disease characterized by global psychomotor delay mainly involving language, moderate-to-severe cognitive impairment, autism spectrum disorder, and a generalized epilepsy with spontaneous and reflex seizures. The severity and variability of function impairment and the impact on patients' and caregivers' daily life are still poorly acknowledged. The SYNGAP1 Italian Family Association developed a survey, shared online with caregivers, exploring several issues, including: epilepsy outcome, comorbidities, daily-living skills, hospitalizations, rehabilitation treatments, economic burden, and COVID-19 pandemic impact. Caregivers of 13 children and adolescents participated in the survey. They most often show a fine and gross-motor impairment and a drug-resistant epilepsy with possibility to experience pluridaily absence seizures that may lead to periods of psychomotor regressions. Eating and sleep problems are reported in the majority. Most parents are concerned about language impairment, behavioral issues and lack of autonomy in daily-living activities. Specific neuropsychological evaluations for autism should be early considered in order to identify intervention strategies involving alternative communication strategies, which can positively affect behavior and quality of life. Rehabilitation treatment should aim to the acquisition and consolidation of personal autonomy.
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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; Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies Verona, IT, Verona, Italy; PhD Program in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Luciana De Gaetano
- Associazione Famiglie SYNGAP1, Italy; Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Santangelo
- 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, IT, 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, IT, Verona, Italy
| | - Isabella Brambilla
- Research Center for Pediatric Epilepsies Verona, IT, Verona, Italy; Dravet Italia Onlus, Italy; Rare Epilepsies Alliance, Italy; ERN EpiCare (Epag), 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, IT, Verona, Italy
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16
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Nesbitt GC, Murphy PA. CRID - A unique, universal, patient-generated identifier to facilitate collaborative rare disease clinical research. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2022.100973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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17
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Berg AT, Coffman K, Gaebler-Spira D. Dysautonomia and functional impairment in rare developmental and epileptic encephalopathies: the other nervous system. Dev Med Child Neurol 2021; 63:1433-1440. [PMID: 34247387 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine whether functional impairments and autonomic symptoms are correlated in young people with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). METHOD Cross-sectional, online surveys (2018-2020) of parents recruited from family groups obtained information on several aspects of children's conditions including functional abilities (mobility, hand use, eating, and communication), 18 autonomic symptoms in six groups (cardiac, respiratory, sweating, temperature, gastrointestinal, and other), and parental stress. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses examined associations of dysautonomias with functional impairment, adjusted for type of DEE and age. RESULTS Of 313 participants with full information on function and dysautonomias, 156 (50%) were females. The median age was 8 years (interquartile range 4-12y); 255 (81%) participants had symptoms in at least one autonomic symptom group; 283 (90%) had impairment in at least one functional domain. The number of functional impairment domains and of autonomic symptom groups varied significantly across DEE groups (both p<0.001). The number of functional impairment domains and of autonomic symptom groups were correlated (Spearman's r=0.35, p<0.001) on bivariate and multivariable analysis adjusted for DEE group and age. Parental stress was also independently correlated with dysautonomias (p<0.001). INTERPRETATION Parent-reported dysautonomias are common in children with DEEs. They correlate with extent of functional impairment and may contribute to caregiver stress. What this paper adds Dysautonomic symptoms are common in young people with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). Burden of dysautonomias is strongly correlated with burden of functional impairments. Aspects of dysautonomic function may provide biomarkers of DEE disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- Division of Neurology, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Keith Coffman
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Deborah Gaebler-Spira
- Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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18
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Beck VC, Isom LL, Berg AT. Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Channelopathy-Associated Epilepsy. J Pediatr 2021; 237:41-49.e1. [PMID: 34181986 PMCID: PMC8478841 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of and identify factors associated with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms among children with channelopathy-associated developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE). STUDY DESIGN Parents of 168 children with DEEs linked to SCN1A (n = 59), KCNB1 (n = 31), or KCNQ2 (n = 78) completed online CLIRINX surveys about their children's GI symptoms. Our analysis examined the prevalence, frequency, and severity of GI symptoms, as well as DEE type, functional mobility, feeding difficulties, ketogenic diet, antiseizure medication, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and seizures. Statistical analyses included the χ2 test, Wilcoxon rank-sum analysis, and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS GI symptoms were reported in 92 of 168 patients (55%), among whom 63 of 86 (73%) reported daily or weekly symptoms, 29 of 92 (32%) had frequent or serious discomfort, and 13 of 91 (14%) had frequent or serious appetite disturbances as a result. The prevalence of GI symptoms varied across DEE cohorts with 44% of SCN1A-DEE patients, 35% of KCNB1-DEE patients, and 71% of KCNQ2-DEE patients reporting GI symptoms in the previous month. After adjustment for DEE type, current use of ketogenic diet (6% reported), and gastrostomy tube (13% reported) were both associated with GI symptoms in a statistically, but not clinically, significant manner (P < .05). Patient age, functional mobility, feeding difficulties, ASD, and seizures were not clearly associated with GI symptoms. Overall, no individual antiseizure medication was significantly associated with GI symptoms across all DEE cohorts. CONCLUSIONS GI symptoms are common and frequently severe in patients with DEE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica C Beck
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Lori L Isom
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Anne T Berg
- Division of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.
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PACS1-Neurodevelopmental disorder: clinical features and trial readiness. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:386. [PMID: 34517877 PMCID: PMC8438988 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-02001-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background PACS1-Neurodevelopmental Disorder (PACS1-NDD) is an ultra-rare condition due to a recurrent mutation in the PACS1 gene. Little systematically collected data exist about the functional abilities and neurodevelopmental morbidities in children with PACS1-NDD Methods Parents of individuals with PACS1-NDD completed an on-line survey designed collaboratively by researchers, parents, and clinicians. Analyses focused on those with a confirmed R203W variant. Results Of 35 individuals with confirmed variants, 18 (51%) were female. The median age was 8 years (interquartile range 4.5–15). Seventeen (49%) had a diagnosis of epilepsy. Twelve (40%, of 30 responding to the question) reported autism and (N = 11/30, 37%) reported features of autism. Most children walked independently (N = 29/32, 91%), had a pincer grasp (N = 23/32, 72%), could feed themselves independently (N = 15/32, 47%), and used speech (N = 23/32, 72%). Sixteen of twenty-nine (55%) had simple pre-academic skills. Neither epilepsy nor autism was associated with functional abilities or other clinical features (all P > 0.05). Conclusions PACS1-NDD is a moderately-severe intellectual disability syndrome in which seizures occur but are not a defining or primary feature. Successful precision medicine clinical trials for this ultra-rare disorder must target important core features of this disorder and utilize assessment tools commensurate with the level of function in this clinical population.
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20
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Isom LL, Knupp KG. Dravet Syndrome: Novel Approaches for the Most Common Genetic Epilepsy. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:1524-1534. [PMID: 34378168 PMCID: PMC8608987 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01095-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy that is mainly associated with variants in SCN1A. While drug-resistant epilepsy is the most notable feature of this syndrome, numerous symptoms are present that have significant impact on patients' quality of life. In spite of novel, third-generation anti-seizure treatment options becoming available over the last several years, seizure freedom is often not attained and non-seizure symptoms remain. Precision medicine now offers realistic hope for seizure freedom in DS patients, with several approaches demonstrating preclinical success. Therapeutic approaches such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) and adeno-associated virus (AAV)-delivered gene modulation have expanded the potential treatment options for DS, with some of these approaches now transitioning to clinical trials. Several of these treatments may risk the exacerbation of gain-of-function variants and may not be reversible, therefore emphasizing the need for functional testing of new pathogenic variants. The current absence of treatments that address the overall disease, in addition to seizures, exposes the urgent need for reliable, valid measures of the entire complement of symptoms as outcome measures to truly know the impact of treatments on DS. Additionally, with so many treatment options on the horizon, there will be a need to understand how to select appropriate patients for each treatment, whether treatments are complementary or adverse to each other, and long-term risks of the treatment. Nevertheless, precision therapeutics hold tremendous potential to provide long-lasting seizure freedom and even complete cures for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori L Isom
- Department of Pharmacology, Department of Neurology, Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5632, USA.
| | - Kelly G Knupp
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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21
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Evaluation of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist for Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 119:107958. [PMID: 33892287 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the suitability of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC)-a common measure used in clinical trials for treatment of challenging behaviors of autism-as an outcome measure for pharmacological and behavioral interventions for young people with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs). METHODS We assessed score profiles on the ABC in a sample of 122 young people with DEEs, including Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes, and KCNQ2- SCN2A-, and KCNB1-associated disorders. Then we examined its internal structure using item cluster analysis. We used both unrestricted item cluster analysis to determine the number of item clusters that maximize reliability and restricted analyses in which we pre-specified models with 5-, 6-, and 7-clusters, to examine consistency with previous factor analytic studies. We also conducted validity analysis on the various scoring methods with age, sex, and autism spectrum screening measure scores. RESULTS Unrestricted item cluster analysis suggested that three clusters maximized reliability of ABC scores. These broadly represented other-directed behaviors (i.e., "externalizing"), self-directed behaviors (i.e., "internalizing"), and inappropriate speech. Restricted models separated item clusters for stereotypy from other self-directed problem behaviors, and self-injurious behaviors from the other externalizing behaviors. Validity analysis also supported these structures. Overall, all scores were low, and less than 20% of DEE participants had symptoms severe enough to qualify for most randomized trials of behavioral therapies. SIGNIFICANCE These results are broadly consistent with the extant ABC scoring algorithms. They suggest a high internal consistency reliability, which may support the use of the ABC in future clinical trials in patients with DEEs who exhibit the behaviors assessed by the ABC. Alternatively, concerns about overall low scores raise cautions about using the ABC as a measure of behavior in unselected populations with DEE.
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22
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Berg AT, Mahida S, Poduri A. KCNQ2-DEE: developmental or epileptic encephalopathy? Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2021; 8:666-676. [PMID: 33616268 PMCID: PMC7951099 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective KCNQ2‐associated developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) present with seizures and developmental impairments. The relation between seizures and functional impairments in affected children and the relation of a specific genetic variant to seizure control remains unknown. Methods Parents of children with documented KCNQ2 variants who participated in a structured, online natural history survey provided information about seizure history, functional mobility, hand use, communication function, and feeding independence. Bivariate analyses were performed with nonparametric methods and logistic regression was used for multivariable analyses. Results Thirty‐nine children (20, 51% girls, median age 4.5 years, interquartile range (IQR) 1.9—19.3) had a median age of seizure onset of 1 day (IQR 1—3 days). The most common seizure types were bilateral tonic‐clonic (N = 72, 28%) and bilateral tonic (N = 13, 33%). Time since last seizure was <6 months (N = 18, 46%), 6–23 months (N = 11, 28%), and ≥24 months (N = 10 26%). Severe functional impairment was reported for mobility (62%), hand grasp (31%), feeding (59%), and communication (77%). Twenty‐eight (72%) were impaired in ≥2 domains. There were only weak and inconsistent associations between seizure recency and individual impairments or number of impairments after adjustment for other factors. The functional location of the variants within the Kv7.2 protein was not associated with seizure control. Interpretation Seizures in KCNQ2‐DEE are often well‐controlled, but children have severe impairments regardless. With the increased potential for precision therapies targeting the Kv7.2 channel or the KCNQ2 gene itself, identifying the most relevant and sensitive clinical endpoints will be critical to ensure successful trials of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T Berg
- Division of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sonal Mahida
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Annapurna Poduri
- Epilepsy Genetics Program, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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Van Nuland A, Ivanenko A, Meskis MA, Villas N, Knupp KG, Berg AT. Sleep in Dravet syndrome: A parent-driven survey. Seizure 2021; 85:102-110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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