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Leng X, Hu G, Wang X, Zhang Y, Guo Y, Song C, Yang F, Jiang W, Wang Y, Wang X. Risk of COVID-19 infection and seizure exacerbation among patients with epilepsy during the peak of Omicron wave. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:1416-1425. [PMID: 38795316 PMCID: PMC11296108 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12978] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Existing data regarding the risk of COVID-19 infection and its effects on seizure control in patients with epilepsy (PWE) are inconclusive. Our research aims to investigate the PWE who are susceptible to COVID-19 and what factors contribute to seizure exacerbation. METHODS From Dec 28, 2022 to Feb 19, 2023, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey among adult PWE was conducted. The demographics, epilepsy-related information, COVID-19-related variables, and seizure outcomes after COVID-19 infection were collected. Multivariate logistic analyses were performed to determine the risk factors associated with COVID-19 infection and exacerbated seizures. RESULTS Of 1557 PWE, 829 (53.2%) were infected with COVID-19 and 136 (16.4%) developed seizure exacerbation after COVID-19 infection. Overweight/obesity (OR 1.372, 95% CI 1.075-1.753, p = 0.011), immunocompromised (OR 3.301, 95% CI 1.093-9.974, p = 0.031), active epilepsy (OR 1.700, 95% CI 1.378-2.097, p < 0.001), and antiseizure medication (ASM) polytherapy (OR 1.314, 95% CI 1.065-1.621, p = 0.011) were associated with COVID-19 infection. Active epilepsy (OR 4.696, 95% CI 2.568-8.586, p < 0.001) and fever-associated seizures (OR 4.298, 95%CI 2.659-6.946, p < 0.001) were associated with seizure exacerbation. SIGNIFICANCE PWE with overweight/obesity, immunocompromised, active epilepsy, and ASM polytherapy were at higher risk of COVID-19 infection. Once infected with COVID-19, seizures were exacerbated in PWE with active epilepsy and fever-associated seizures. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Patients with epilepsy (PWE) do not appear to be more susceptible to COVID-19 infection than general population. Once infected with COVID-19, 16.4% of PWE had seizure exacerbation. The PWE who have experienced seizures within the past 12 months before infection tend to contract COVID-19 more often, and are more likely to experience seizure exacerbations following COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Leng
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Gengyao Hu
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yingchi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yaomin Guo
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Changgeng Song
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Wen Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Xiaomu Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing HospitalAir Force Medical UniversityXi'anChina
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Delazer L, Pressler N, Balestrini S, Xiao F, Clayton LM, Anders‐Cannon J, Salvatierra R, Henry I, Sisodiya SM, Sander JW, Koepp MJ. COVID-19 response in a long-term care facility for people with epilepsy. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:1059-1066. [PMID: 38593277 PMCID: PMC11145605 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12940] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess asymptomatic rates and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in people with epilepsy and their healthcare workers in a long-term care facility which had implemented weekly surveillance testing between April 2020 and June 2022. METHODS Questionnaires focused on objective and subjective COVID-19 symptoms for people with epilepsy residing in and their healthcare workers at the Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy in June 2022. Demographic information, comorbidities, and seizure frequency were gathered from medical records. We also collected responses on objective and subjective COVID-19 symptoms from healthcare workers who participated in a prospective study assessing the reaction to COVID-19 vaccinations (SAFER). RESULTS Fifty-five out of 89 (62%) residents tested positive at least once on weekly PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2 during the period of interest; 20 of those (37%) were asymptomatic. In comparison, of those 63 healthcare workers who tested positive at least once on weekly testing during the same period, only four (6%) were asymptomatic. Of the 159 healthcare workers who also participated in the SAFER study, 41 tested positive at least once, and seven (17%) were completely asymptomatic during infection with SARS-CoV-2. SIGNIFICANCE People with epilepsy living in a long-term care facility were more likely to present with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections than healthcare workers at the same facility. Despite possible bias in the reporting of subjective symptoms due to management-by-proxy, there is no evidence that vulnerable people living in an epilepsy long-term care facility showed reduced resilience towards infections. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY People with epilepsy living in care home facilities had a surprisingly high degree of asymptomatic infections with SARS-CoV-2. Very few residents had severe or fatal outcomes. This is in stark contrast to the widely reported bad outcomes for people without epilepsy in other care homes. People with epilepsy reported significantly less symptoms than their healthcare workers. No changes in seizure frequency during or after infection were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Delazer
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
- Department of Clinical & Experimental EpilepsyUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy CenterLudwig Maximilians UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Noah Pressler
- University of Nottingham, Medical SchoolNottinghamUK
| | - Simona Balestrini
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
- Department of Clinical & Experimental EpilepsyUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
- Neuroscience Department, Children's Hospital A. Meyer IRCSSUniversity of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Fenglai Xiao
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
- Department of Clinical & Experimental EpilepsyUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
- Department of Neurology, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Lisa M. Clayton
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
- Department of Clinical & Experimental EpilepsyUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
| | | | | | - Ian Henry
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
| | - Sanjay M. Sisodiya
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
- Department of Clinical & Experimental EpilepsyUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
| | - Josemir W. Sander
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
- Department of Clinical & Experimental EpilepsyUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
- Department of Neurology, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN)HeemstedeThe Netherlands
| | - Matthias J. Koepp
- Chalfont Centre for EpilepsyChalfont St Peter, BucksUK
- Department of Clinical & Experimental EpilepsyUCL Queen Square Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
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Fawcett J, Davis S, Manford M. Further advances in epilepsy. J Neurol 2023; 270:5655-5670. [PMID: 37458794 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11860-6] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
In 2017, one of us reviewed advances in epilepsy (Manford in J Neurol 264:1811-1824, 2017). The current paper brings that review up to date and gives a slight change in emphasis. Once again, the story is of evolution rather than revolution. In recognition that most of our current medications act on neurotransmitters or ion channels, and not on the underlying changes in connectivity and pathways, they have been renamed as antiseizure (ASM) medications rather than antiepileptic drugs. Cenobamate is the one newly licensed medication for broader use in focal epilepsy but there have been a number of developments for specific disorders. We review new players and look forward to new developments in the light of evolving underlying science. We look at teratogenicity; old villains and new concerns in which clinicians play a vital role in explaining and balancing the risks. Medical treatment of status epilepticus, long without evidence, has benefitted from high-quality trials to inform practice; like buses, several arriving at once. Surgical treatment continues to be refined with improvements in the pre-surgical evaluation of patients, especially with new imaging techniques. Alternatives including stereotactic radiotherapy have received further focus and targets for palliative stimulation techniques have grown in number. Individuals' autonomy and quality of life continue to be the subject of research with refinement of what clinicians can do to help persons with epilepsy (PWE) achieve control. This includes seizure management but extends to broader considerations of human empowerment, needs and desires, which may be aided by emerging technologies such as seizure detection devices. The role of specialist nurses in improving that quality has been reinforced by specific endorsement from the International League against Epilepsy (ILAE).
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Fawcett
- Department of Neurology, Royal United Hospital, Bath, UK
| | - Sarah Davis
- Department of Neurology, Royal United Hospital, Bath, UK
| | - Mark Manford
- Department of Neurology, Royal United Hospital, Bath, UK.
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Marshall AD, Leach JP, Mackay D, Heath CA. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a cohort of adults with epilepsy. Seizure 2023; 111:191-195. [PMID: 37678077 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.09.002] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess the direct and indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults with epilepsy in Glasgow. METHODS We used routinely collected data for a previously identified cohort of patients with epilepsy to evaluate access to scheduled and unscheduled care with quarterly rates of inpatient admissions, outpatient attendance and accident & emergency attendance calculated. Anti-seizure medication prescribing and persistence, incidence of anxiety and depression and deaths for a cohort of patients with epilepsy was evaluated prior to the pandemic in comparison to during the pandemic, from 2015 to 2021. RESULTS All-cause mortality and epilepsy related mortality showed a statistically significant reduction during the pandemic. Although overall rates of out-patient hospital attendance dropped during the early stages of the pandemic (and had not returned to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2021) epilepsy-related services saw maintenance of patient contact as a result of a rapid adoption of telephone clinics. A significant decrease in overall mortality was observed in PWE during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. COVID-19 was the single commonest cause of death in PWE during the pandemic (61/453) and 160 patients (3.7%) had at least 1 admission to hospital for COVID-19. Anti-seizure medication (ASM) prescribing remained rates remained stable during the pandemic. During the pandemic an average of 38.8% of cohort patients were treated for depression and 16.3% for anxiety per quarter, 8.2% and 12.4% of whom had not been previously treated for these conditions respectively. CONCLUSION We have shown that during a national lockdown, in the context of a pandemic, mortality in patients with epilepsy has reduced, while out-patient services were delivered remotely, primarily via the telephone. The reasons for this remain unclear but suggest that some of the excess mortality in people with epilepsy may be potentially avoidable by changes in lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Marshall
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK.
| | - J P Leach
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, UK; School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - D Mackay
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - C A Heath
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, UK; School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, UK
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Li X, Sun S, Yan C, Liu X. Interaction between COVID-19 and epilepsy during the omicron surge: A cross-sectional survey conducted in China tertiary hospital. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2023; 23:100613. [PMID: 37501889 PMCID: PMC10368756 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2023.100613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective It is unclear whether patients with epilepsy are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection, whether they experience more severe manifestations of COVID-19, and whether seizures worsen after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study aims to explore these points and provide comprehensive and practical guidance for patients with epilepsy. Methods We designed a questionnaire to collect variables from epilepsy patients. We used the Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, or Mann-Whitney U test to analyze differences between the two groups. Multiple logistic regressions were employed to determine the risk factors for relevant outcome variables. Results We identified a total of 181 patients, with 74% (n = 134) reporting COVID-19. The patients' educational level was found to be a risk factor for COVID-19 (OR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.14-0.80, P = 0.013). When comparing seizure frequency changes between epilepsy patients with and without COVID-19, no statistically significant difference was observed (P > 0.05). However, an increase in seizure frequency was significantly associated with higher levels of anxiety (P < 0.001) and depression (P < 0.005). Conclusion The risk of COVID-19 infection may be increased in patients with epilepsy. COVID-19 infection does not seem to worsen seizures in epilepsy patients. Patients with epilepsy rarely develop more severe clinical manifestations of COVID-19 after SARS-CoV-2 infection. During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with epilepsy who also suffer from anxiety and depression may experience an increase in the frequency of their seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangliang Li
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Sujuan Sun
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Cuihua Yan
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xuewu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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Singh M, Kaushik JS, Yadav A, Khanna A, Dabla S. Parent's Perspective of Problems Faced during the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on the Care of Children with Epilepsy: A Qualitative Study. Indian J Public Health 2023; 67:382-386. [PMID: 37929379 DOI: 10.4103/ijph.ijph_1564_22] [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: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 has significantly impacted the care of children with chronic illness. There is a paucity of data on issues faced by parents of children with epilepsy (CWE) in an Indian setup. Objectives The objective was to describe the parental perspective of the problems faced by them on the care of their CWE during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods Parents of CWE who physically visited the clinic for their follow-up visit were asked to narrate their experiences about the problems they faced during the first lockdown due to COVID-19. The narratives were audio recorded, and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis to arrive at broad themes. Results Four broad themes were identified: transport-related issues, medication-related issues, issues related to doctor consultation, and diagnostic delay. Limited transportation facilities, lack of appropriate social distancing norms in public transport and outpatient units, rigorous frisking by personnel during travel, fear of viral transmission during outpatient visits, nonavailability of antiseizure medications (ASMs) in local markets, lack of discounts by pharmacy, change of brands of ASM, and inability to undergo scheduled diagnostic investigations were some of the major issues raised by parents of CWE. Conclusion Parents of CWE had trouble in transport to the hospital, inadequate access to ASMs, difficulties in doctor consultation, and delays in diagnostic investigations during the first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjeet Singh
- Medical Undergraduate Student, Department of Neurology, Pt B D Sharma Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Jaya Shankar Kaushik
- Additional Professor, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Alka Yadav
- Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Pt B D Sharma Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Alok Khanna
- Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Pt B D Sharma Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Surekha Dabla
- Senior Professor, Department of Neurology, Pt B D Sharma Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, Haryana, India
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Wang Z, Fang X, Han T, Lv S, Li C, Ma A, Jiang Z, Li W, Sun W, Sun W, Gao Y, Gao Z, Liu Y, Li Q, Wang S, Li B, Liu X, Liu X. Safety and Tolerability of COVID-19 Vaccine in Children With Epilepsy: A Prospective, Multicenter Study. Pediatr Neurol 2023; 140:3-8. [PMID: 36577181 PMCID: PMC9721163 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.11.018] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We designed this study to investigate the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine on epileptic seizures, as well as its adverse effects, in children with epilepsy (<18 years). METHODS This anonymous questionnaire study involved a multicenter prospective survey of outpatients and inpatients with epilepsy (<18 years) registered in epilepsy clinics in eight hospitals in six cities of Shandong Province. RESULTS A total of 224 children with epilepsy were included in the study. Fifty of them experienced general adverse events after vaccination. The most common local adverse events were pain or tenderness at the injection site. The most common systemic adverse effects were muscle soreness and headache. No severe adverse events were reported. There were no significant differences in the number of antiseizure medications (P = 0.459), gender (P = 0.336), etiology (P = 0.449), age (P = 0.499), duration of disease (P = 0.546), or seizure type (P = 0.475) between the patients with and without general adverse events. We found that the risk of seizure after vaccination was decreased in children who were seizure free for more than six months before vaccination. There was no significant difference in the number of seizures during the first month before vaccination, the first month after the first dose, and the first month after the second dose (P = 0.091). CONCLUSION The benefits of vaccination against COVID-19 outweighed the risks of seizures/relapses and severe adverse events after vaccination for children with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiqin Fang
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Tao Han
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Shishen Lv
- Department of Pediatrics, Tengzhou Central People's Hospital, Tengzhou, China
| | - Chunxiang Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Aihua Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Zhaolun Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Tengzhou Central People's Hospital, Tengzhou, China
| | - Wenke Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Tengzhou Central People's Hospital, Tengzhou, China
| | - Wenxiu Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Wenying Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Yuxing Gao
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Zaifen Gao
- Department of Pediatrics, Qilu Children's Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Qilu Children's Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qiubo Li
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical, Jining, China
| | - Suli Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Weifang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Baomin Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xinjie Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xuewu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China; Institute of Epilepsy, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
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Kalvesmaki AF, Gonzales E, George RT, Nguyen H, Pugh MJ. Post-9/11 veterans perceptions of the pandemic: Areas of greatest impact on health and well-being. PEC INNOVATION 2022; 1:100096. [PMID: 36348640 PMCID: PMC9635259 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2022.100096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Objective Assess potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on a subset of Post-9/11 U.S. Veterans included in a study of post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE). Methods Two measures were added to a structured health interview for Veterans during temporary pandemic research shutdown: a validated health questionnaire [1] previously completed by survey, and a semi-structured instrument developed to assess whether pandemic conditions affected responses to the health questionnaire and identify unique impacts. Interviews were conducted between August 2020 – February 2021. Scaled items were calculated and t-tests used to compare results. Open-ended items were coded using thematic analyses. Results Veterans identified eight major areas of impact with negative and positive impacts: mental health, family, social, work/employment, access to resources, physical health, finances, and education. Innovation The temporary shut-down of a large health study for Post-9/11 Veterans provided an opportunity to devise an instrument to assess COVID-19's impact on health and well-being. The instrument was accepted as of the first Veteran instrument in a pandemic SDOH research repository [2], and is being used in other studies. Conclusion This study highlights the need to assess and understand interrelated relationships of factors impacting health and well-being, especially as COVID-19 moves from pandemic to endemic with reverberating effects across multiple social determinants of health (SDOH).
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Long-term analysis of the effects of COVID-19 in people with epilepsy: Results from a multicenter on-line survey across the pandemic waves. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 135:108900. [PMID: 36115083 PMCID: PMC9404228 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The worldwide pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus posed many challenges to the scientific and medical communities, including the protection and management of fragile populations. People with epilepsy (PWE) are a heterogenous group of subjects, with different treatment regimens and severity of symptoms. During the National lockdown, in Italy many patients with chronic conditions lost their regular follow-up program. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on their health status, from the start of the pandemic (March 2020) to July 2021 and one year later. METHODS We proposed an online questionnaire to subjects followed up at different epilepsy centers located in Milano, Monza & Lodi, three of Lombardy, Northern Italy, the most affected areas by the pandemic. Survey evaluated age, sex, characteristics of patients, type of epilepsy and therapies, COVID-19 diagnosis, vaccines, sleep quality, and anxiety status. RESULTS Among 178 analyzed surveys, 37 individuals reported symptoms of COVID-19 in closed contacts, including 9 with molecular diagnosis and 16 PWE performing the nasopharyngeal swab with 3 positive cases. One year later, 35 individuals reported at least one symptom overlapping with those typical of COVID-19, 8 received COVID-19 diagnosis, among which 6 were positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. According to the sleep quality scale assessment, most PWE (52.3%) had poor sleep quality. Assessing anxiety status, 32 (38.1%) had a pathological score. CONCLUSION In this multicenter study, we observed that PWE do not appear to be at a higher risk of severe COVID-19. It will be fundamental monitoring this group to assess possible differences in long-COVID-19 and/or neuro-COVID-19 prevalence. On the other hand, our survey confirmed the impact of the pandemic on anxiety and quality of sleep in PWE. Thus, it is important to promptly recognize and treat psychological distress in PWE, because it could be a risk factor in seizure aggravation and quality-of-life deterioration. Telemedicine appears to be a useful tool to support patients with chronic diseases, such as epilepsy.
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Körbel K, Rosenow F, Maltseva M, Müller H, Schulz J, Tsalouchidou PE, Langenbruch L, Kovac S, Menzler K, Hamacher M, von Podewils F, Willems LM, Mann C, Strzelczyk A. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on physical and mental health status and care of adults with epilepsy in Germany. Neurol Res Pract 2022; 4:44. [PMID: 36131301 PMCID: PMC9492304 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-022-00209-5] [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: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To mitigate the potential consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on public life, the German Federal Government and Ministry of Health enacted a strict lockdown protocol on March 16, 2020. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical and mental health status and the supply of medical care and medications for people with epilepsy (PWE) in Germany. Methods The Epi2020 study was a large, multicenter study focused on different healthcare aspects of adults with epilepsy. In addition to clinical and demographic characteristics, patients were asked to answer a questionnaire on the impact of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic between March and May 2020. Furthermore, the population-based number of epilepsy-related admissions in Hessen was evaluated for the January-June periods of 2017–2020 to detect pandemic-related changes. Results During the first wave of the pandemic, 41.6% of PWE reported a negative impact on their mental health, while only a minority reported worsening of their seizure situation. Mental and physical health were significantly more negatively affected in women than men with epilepsy and in PWE without regular employment. Moreover, difficulties in ensuring the supply of sanitary products (25.8%) and antiseizure medications (ASMs; 19.9%) affected PWE during the first lockdown; no significant difference regarding these impacts between men and women or between people with and without employment was observed. The number of epilepsy-related admissions decreased significantly during the first wave. Conclusions This analysis provides an overview of the general and medical care of epilepsy patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. PWE in our cohort frequently reported psychosocial distress during the first wave of the pandemic, with significant adverse effects on mental and physical health. Women and people without permanent jobs especially reported distress due to the pandemic. The COVID‐19 pandemic has added to the mental health burden and barriers to accessing medication and medical services, as self-reported by patients and verified in population-based data on hospital admissions. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), DRKS00022024. Registered October 2, 2020, http://www.drks.de/DRKS00022024
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Muccioli L, Zenesini C, Taruffi L, Licchetta L, Mostacci B, Di Vito L, Pasini E, Volpi L, Riguzzi P, Ferri L, Baccari F, Nonino F, Michelucci R, Tinuper P, Vignatelli L, Bisulli F. Risk of hospitalization and death for COVID-19 in persons with epilepsy over a 20-month period: the EpiLink Bologna cohort, Italy. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2279-2289. [PMID: 35778963 PMCID: PMC9349826 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective Data on COVID‐19 outcomes in persons with epilepsy (PWE) are scarce and inconclusive. We aimed to study the risk of hospitalization and death for COVID‐19 in a large cohort of PWE from March 1, 2020 to October 31, 2021. Methods The historical cohort design (EpiLink Bologna) compared adult PWE grouped into people with focal epilepsy (PFE), idiopathic generalized epilepsy (PIGE), and developmental and/or epileptic encephalopathy (PDEE), and a population cohort matched (ratio 1:10) for age, sex, residence, and comorbidity (assessed with the multisource comorbidity score), living in the local health trust of Bologna (approximately 800 000 residents). Clinical data were linked to health administrative data. Results In both cohorts (EpiLink: n = 1575 subjects, 1128 PFE, 267 PIGE, 148 PDEE, 32 other; controls: n = 15 326 subjects), 52% were females, and the mean age was 50 years (SD = 18). Hospital admissions for COVID‐19 in the whole period were 49 (3.1%) in PWE and 225 (1.5%) in controls. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) in PWE was 1.9 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–2.7). The subgroups at higher risk were PFE (aHR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.3–2.8) and PDEE (aHR = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.7–8.7), whereas PIGE had a risk comparable to the controls (aHR = 1.1, 95% CI = .3–3.5). Stratified analyses of the two main epidemic waves (March–May 2020, October 2020–May 2021) disclosed a higher risk of COVID‐19‐related hospitalization during the first epidemic wave (March–May 2020; aHR = 3.8, 95% CI = 2.2–6.7). Polytherapy with antiseizure medications contributed to a higher risk of hospital admission. Thirty‐day risk of death after hospitalization was 14% in both PWE and controls. Significance During the first 20 months since the outbreak of COVID‐19 in Bologna, PWE had a doubled risk of COVID‐19 hospital admission compared to a matched control population. Conversely, epilepsy did not represent a risk factor for COVID‐19‐related death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Muccioli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Corrado Zenesini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lisa Taruffi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Licchetta
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Mostacci
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lidia Di Vito
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Pasini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lilia Volpi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrizia Riguzzi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ferri
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Flavia Baccari
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Nonino
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Tinuper
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Vignatelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Bisulli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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The disease course of multiple sclerosis before and during COVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective five-year study. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 65:103985. [PMID: 35759904 PMCID: PMC9212895 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Introduction COVID-19 pandemic is thought to influence the natural history of immune disorders, yet the knowledge on its effect on multiple sclerosis (MS) is unknown and not fully understood for which we conducted this retrospective study. Methods and materials We included all patients with MS seen in King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between January 2017 and October 20201. We determined clinical and radiological evidence of disease activities in all patients by the end of the study period, and we compared the disease patterns before and during the pandemic. We also identified patients with COVID-19 since March 2020, who had at least 3 months of follow-up following the infection. Results We studied 301 patients; 216 (72%) were women, the mean age was 38 years (range; 16, 73 years), the mean disease duration was 10 years (range; 1, 36 years), and the median EDSS score was 0.5 (range; 0, 8). RRMS accounted for most of the cases (270 patients). MS disease activities were 25% less prevalent during the pandemic compared to the preceding 3 years (26 vs. 51%, respectively, p < 0.01). Bivariate analysis showed significant higher disease activities in patients younger than 35 years (73 vs 27%), on DMT (68 vs 32%), and complaint to therapy (69 vs 31%). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the likelihood of MS disease activities were 3 times more during the pre-pandemic era (adjusted OR = 3.1, p value < 0.05, 95% CI; 1.4, 7.1). Thirty patients (10%) were infected with COVID-19. All patients reported mild symptoms, and none required hospitalization. COVID-19 was prevalent among younger patients with RRMS, with low EDSS scores, irrespective of DMTs they received. COVID-19 infection was not associated with clinical relapses or MRI changes. Disease activities were dependent on DMT use and not COVID-19 status. Multivariate analyses also confirmed no effect of COVID-19 on disease activities (p = 0.3 and 0.4, for clinical and MRI changes, respectively). Conclusions MS disease activities did not increase during the pandemic, yet the apparent decrease in the disease activities is probably due to under reporting and not a real decrease in disease activities because of the pandemic. The COVID-19 infection in our MS patients showed a benign disease course, yet standard precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission should be applied accordingly.
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Fine AL, Wong-Kisiel LC, Nickels KC, Wirrell EC. Masking for School-Age Children With Epilepsy: We Do Have Consensus! J Child Neurol 2022; 37:127-132. [PMID: 34986033 DOI: 10.1177/08830738211063684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study was designed to assess current recommendations from child neurologists and epileptologists on masking for school-age children with epilepsy. METHODS A 7-item survey was created and sent out to members of the Child Neurology Society and Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium in August of 2021 to assess current practice and provider recommendations on masking. RESULTS One hundred four individuals participated with representation from all regions of the United States. Masking was recommended by 95.1%, with 63.4% (n = 66) noting exception of those with severe intellectual disability, autism, and behavioral problems. Of those who write exemption letters, 54% write these <5% of the time. Only 3% reported potential adverse events associated with masking. CONCLUSION Nearly all respondents recommended masking for school-age children with epilepsy. Potential risks of masking and adverse events were low. Improved guidance on masking is needed to ensure academic success of our patients with epilepsy.
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COVID-19 prevalence and mortality in people with epilepsy: A nation-wide multicenter study. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 125:108379. [PMID: 34731719 PMCID: PMC9759834 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess the prevalence, severity, and mortality of COVID-19 in people with epilepsy (PWE) and evaluate seizure control in PWE during and after COVID-19. METHODS Retrospective, observational, multicenter study conducted in 14 hospitals. Medical records of randomly selected PWE followed at neurology outpatient clinics were reviewed. Proportion of PWE with a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 during 2020 was calculated. Risk factors associated with COVID-19 and its morbimortality were evaluated. RESULTS 2751 PWE were included, mean age 48.8 years (18-99), 72.4% had focal epilepsy, and 35% were drug-refractory. COVID-19 prevalence in PWE was 5.53%, while in the Spanish population was 4.26%. Proportion of admissions to hospital, ICU, and deaths in PWE were 17.1%, 2%, and 4.61% of COVID-19 cases, while in Spanish population were 10.81%, 0.95%, and 2.57%, respectively. A severe form of COVID-19 occurred in 11.8%; dyslipidemia, institutionalization at long-term care facilities, intellectual disability, and older age were associated risk factors. Older age, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiac disease, and institutionalization were associated with mortality from COVID-19. Seizure control was stable in 90.1% of PWE during acute COVID-19, while 8.6% reported an increase in seizure frequency. During post-COVID-19 follow-up, 4.6% reported seizure control worsening. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 was moderately prevalent in PWE. One out of 5 patients required medical attention and 4.6% died due to COVID-19. Older age, dyslipidemia, institutionalization, and intellectual disability were significant risk factors associated with severe COVID-19. Seizure control remained stable during COVID-19 and throughout long-term follow-up in most PWE who contracted the infection.
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Antiepileptic drugs. REACTIONS WEEKLY 2021. [PMCID: PMC8256970 DOI: 10.1007/s40278-021-98167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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