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Donnellan EP, Kehoe C, Moran A, Ni Chollatain M, Hynes Y, Hennessy M, Reade E, Allen NM. The 2017 and 2022 ILAE epilepsy classification systems identify needs and opportunities in care: A paediatric hospital-based study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 157:109804. [PMID: 38861909 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is a paucity of studies reporting the epilepsy spectrum using the 2017 and 2022 ILAE classification systems in everyday clinical practice. To identify gaps and opportunities in care we evaluated a hospital-based cohort applying these epilepsy classification systems, including aetiology and co-morbidity, and the utility of molecular genetic diagnosis to identify available precision therapies. METHODS Cross sectional retrospective study of all children with epilepsy (≤16 years) attending University Hospital Galway (2017-2022). Data collection and analysis of each case was standardised to ensure a systematic approach and application of the recent ILAE categorisation and terminology (2017 and 2022). Ethics approval was obtained. RESULTS Among 356 children, epilepsy was classified as focal (46.1 %), generalised (38.8 %), combined (6.2 %), and unknown (9 %). Epilepsy syndrome was determined in 145/356 (40.7 %), comprising 24 different syndromes, most commonly SeLECTS (9 %), CAE (7 %), JAE (6.2 %) and IESS (5.9 %). New aetiology-specific syndromes were identified (e.g. CDKL5-DEE). Molecular diagnosis was confirmed in 19.9 % (n = 71) which encompassed monogenic (13.8 %) and chromosomopathy/CNV (6.2 %). There was an additional 35.7 % (n = 127) of patients who had a presumed genetic aetiology of epilepsy. Remaining aetiology included structural (18.8 %, n = 67), infectious (2 %, n = 7), metabolic (1.7 %, n = 6) and unknown (30.3 %, n = 108). Encephalopathy categorisation was determined in 182 patients (DE in 38.8 %; DEE in a further 11.8 %) associated with a range of co-morbidities categorised as global delay (29.2 %, n = 104), severe neurological impairment (16.3 %, n = 58), and ASD (14.6 %, n = 52). Molecular-based "precision therapy" was deemed available in 21/356 (5.9 %) patients, with "molecular precision" approach utilised in 13/356 (3.7 %), and some benefit noted in 6/356 (1.7 %) of overall cohort or 6/71 (8.5 %) of the molecular cohort. CONCLUSION Applying the latest ILAE epilepsy classification systems allow comparison across settings and identifies a major neuro-developmental co-morbidity rate and a large genetic aetiology. We identified very few meaningful molecular-based disease modifying "precision therapies". There is a monumental gap between aetiological identification, and impact of meaningful therapies, thus the new 2017/2022 classification clearly identifies the major challenges in the provision of routine epilepsy care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caroline Kehoe
- Department of Paediatrics, Galway University Hospital, Ireland
| | - Ailbhe Moran
- Department of Paediatrics, Galway University Hospital, Ireland
| | | | - Yvonne Hynes
- Department of Paediatrics, Galway University Hospital, Ireland
| | | | - Elaine Reade
- Department of Paediatrics, Galway University Hospital, Ireland
| | - Nicholas M Allen
- Department of Paediatrics, Galway University Hospital, Ireland; Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Ireland
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Fava A, Lisi SV, Mauro L, Morace R, Ciavarro M, Gorgoglione N, Petrella G, Quarato PP, Di Gennaro G, di Russo P, Esposito V. The anterior sylvian point as a reliable landmark for the anterior temporal lobectomy in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy: technical note, case series, and cadaveric dissection. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1352321. [PMID: 39015783 PMCID: PMC11250084 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1352321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) is one of the most prevalent forms of focal epilepsy in surgical series, particularly among adults. Over the decades, different surgical strategies have been developed to address drug-resistant epilepsy while safeguarding neurological and cognitive functions. Among these strategies, anterior temporal lobectomy (ATL), involving the removal of the temporal pole and mesial temporal structures, has emerged as a widely employed technique. Numerous modifications have been proposed to mitigate the risks associated with aphasia, cognitive issues, and visual field defects. Methods Our approach is elucidated through intraoperative and cadaveric dissections, complemented by neuroradiological and cadaveric measurements of key anatomical landmarks. A retrospective analysis of patients with drug-resistant MTLE who were treated using our ATL technique at IRCCS Neuromed (Pozzilli) is presented. Results A total of 385 patients were treated with our ATL subpial technique anatomically focused on the anterior Sylvian point (ASyP). The mean FU was 9.9 ± 5.4 years (range 1-24). In total, 84%of patients were free of seizures during the last follow-up, with no permanent neurological deficits. Transient defects were as follows: aphasia in 3% of patients, visual field defects in 2% of patients, hemiparesis in 2% of patients, and cognitive/memory impairments in 0.8% of patients. In cadaveric dissections, the ASyP was found at a mean distance from the temporal pole of 3.4 ± 0.2 cm (range 3-3.8) at the right side and 3.5 ± 0.2 cm (3.2-3.9) at the left side. In neuroimaging, the ASyP resulted anterior to the temporal horn tip in all cases at a mean distance of 3.2 ± 0.3 mm (range 2.7-3.6) at the right side and 3.5 ± 0.4 mm (range 2.8-3.8) at the left side. Discussion To the best of our knowledge, this study first introduces the ASyP as a reliable and reproducible cortical landmark to perform the ATL to overcome the patients' variabilities, the risk of Meyer's loop injury, and the bias of intraoperative measurements. Our findings demonstrate that ASyP can be a safe cortical landmark that is useful in MTLE surgery because it is constantly present and is anterior to risky temporal regions such as temporal horn and language networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Fava
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy “G. Cantore”, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Mauro
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy “G. Cantore”, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | | | | | - Nicola Gorgoglione
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy “G. Cantore”, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Paolo di Russo
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy “G. Cantore”, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Esposito
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy “G. Cantore”, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
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Deng DZ, Husari KS. Approach to Patients with Seizures and Epilepsy: A Guide for Primary Care Physicians. Prim Care 2024; 51:211-232. [PMID: 38692771 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2024.02.008] [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: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Seizures and epilepsy are common neurologic conditions that are frequently encountered in the outpatient primary care setting. An accurate diagnosis relies on a thorough clinical history and evaluation. Understanding seizure semiology and classification is crucial in conducting the initial assessment. Knowledge of common seizure triggers and provoking factors can further guide diagnostic testing and initial management. The pharmacodynamic characteristics and side effect profiles of anti-seizure medications are important considerations when deciding treatment and counseling patients, particularly those with comorbidities and in special populations such as patient of childbearing potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Z Deng
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Johns Hopkins University, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Meyer 2-147, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Khalil S Husari
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Johns Hopkins University, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Meyer 2-147, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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Zhang MW, Liang XY, Wang J, Gao LD, Liao HJ, He YH, Yi YH, He N, Liao WP. Epilepsy-associated genes: an update. Seizure 2024; 116:4-13. [PMID: 37777370 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide an updated list of epilepsy-associated genes based on clinical-genetic evidence. METHODS Epilepsy-associated genes were systematically searched and cross-checked from the OMIM, HGMD, and PubMed databases up to July 2023. To facilitate the reference for the epilepsy-associated genes that are potentially common in clinical practice, the epilepsy-associated genes were ranked by the mutation number in the HGMD database and by case number in the China Epilepsy Gene 1.0 project, which targeted common epilepsy. RESULTS Based on the OMIM database, 1506 genes were identified to be associated with epilepsy and were classified into three categories according to their potential association with epilepsy or other abnormal phenotypes, including 168 epilepsy genes that were associated with epilepsies as pure or core symptoms, 364 genes that were associated with neurodevelopmental disorders as the main symptom and epilepsy, and 974 epilepsy-related genes that were associated with gross physical/systemic abnormalities accompanied by epilepsy/seizures. Among the epilepsy genes, 115 genes (68.5%) were associated with epileptic encephalopathy. After cross-checking with the HGMD and PubMed databases, an additional 1440 genes were listed as potential epilepsy-associated genes, of which 278 genes have been repeatedly identified variants in patients with epilepsy. The top 100 frequently reported/identified epilepsy-associated genes from the HGMD database and the China Epilepsy Gene 1.0 project were listed, among which 40 genes were identical in both sources. SIGNIFICANCE Recognition of epilepsy-associated genes will facilitate genetic screening strategies and be helpful for precise molecular diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Wen Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Liang
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Liang-Di Gao
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Han-Jun Liao
- University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Yun-Hua He
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Yong-Hong Yi
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Na He
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
| | - Wei-Ping Liao
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China.
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Liao WP. Epilepsy-associated genes: discovery, clinical significance, and underlying principles of genetic medicine. Seizure 2024; 116:1-3. [PMID: 38245481 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Ping Liao
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, Guangdong, China.
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Toplu A, Mutlu N, Erdeve ET, Sariyildiz Ö, Çelik M, Öz-Arslan D, Akman Ö, Molnár Z, Çarçak N, Onat F. Involvement of orexin type-2 receptors in genetic absence epilepsy rats. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1282494. [PMID: 38107640 PMCID: PMC10721972 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1282494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Orexin is a neuropeptide neurotransmitter that regulates the sleep/wake cycle produced by the lateral hypothalamus neurons. Recent studies have shown the involvement of orexin system in epilepsy. Limited data is available about the possible role of orexins in the pathophysiology of absence seizures. This study aims to understand the role of orexinergic signaling through the orexin-type 2 receptor (OX2R) in the pathophysiology of absence epilepsy. The pharmacological effect of a selective OX2R agonist, YNT-185 on spike-and-wave-discharges (SWDs) and the OX2R receptor protein levels in the cortex and thalamus in adult GAERS were investigated. Methods The effect of intracerebroventricular (ICV) (100, 300, and 600 nmol/10 μL), intrathalamic (30 and 40 nmol/500 nL), and intracortical (40 nmol/500 nL) microinjections of YNT-185 on the duration and number of spontaneous SWDs were evaluated in adult GAERS. The percentage of slow-wave sleep (SWS) and spectral characteristics of background EEG were analyzed after the ICV application of 600 nmol YNT-185. The level of OX2R expression in the somatosensory cortex and projecting thalamic nuclei of adult GAERS were examined by Western blot and compared with the non-epileptic Wistar rats. Results We showed that ICV administration of YNT-185 suppressed the cumulative duration of SWDs in GAERS compared to the saline-administered control group (p < 0.05). However, intrathalamic and intracortical microinjections of YNT-185 did not show a significant effect on SWDs. ICV microinjections of YNT-185 affect sleep states by increasing the percentage of SWS and showed a significant treatment effect on the 1-4 Hz delta frequency band power during the 1-2 h post-injection period where YNT-185 significantly decreased the SWDs. OXR2 protein levels were significantly reduced in the cortex and thalamus of GAERS when compared to Wistar rats. Conclusion This study investigated the efficacy of YNT-185 for the first time on absence epilepsy in GAERS and revealed a suppressive effect of OX2R agonist on SWDs as evidenced by the significantly reduced expression of OX2R in the cortex and thalamus. YNT-185 effect on SWDs could be attributed to its regulation of wake/sleep states. The results constitute a step toward understanding the effectiveness of orexin neuropeptides on absence seizures in GAERS and might be targeted by therapeutic intervention for absence epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Toplu
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Institute, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Nursima Mutlu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, Institute of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Elif Tuğçe Erdeve
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Sciences Institute, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Özge Sariyildiz
- Department of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Institute, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Musa Çelik
- Department of Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Devrim Öz-Arslan
- Department of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Institute, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Biophysics, Health Sciences Institute, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Biophysics, School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Özlem Akman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Demiroglu Bilim University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Zoltan Molnár
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nihan Çarçak
- Department of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Institute, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Filiz Onat
- Department of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Institute, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Lian X, Liu Z, Wu T, Lou J, Chen Y, Liu S, Jin L, Li S, Lian Y, Jiang Y, Ren Z. Oral microbiome alterations in epilepsy and after seizure control. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1277022. [PMID: 38107849 PMCID: PMC10721976 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1277022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The existing diagnostic methods of epilepsy such as history collection and electroencephalogram have great limitations in practice, so more reliable and less difficult diagnostic methods are needed. Methods By characterizing oral microbiota in patients diagnosed with epilepsy (EPs) and patients whose seizures were under control (EPRs), we sought to discover biomarkers for different disease states. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed on 480 tongue swabs [157 EPs, 22 EPRs, and 301 healthy controls (HCs)]. Results Compared with normal individuals, patients with epilepsy exhibit increased alpha diversity in their oral microbiota, and the oral microbial communities of the two groups demonstrate significant beta diversity differences. EPs exhibit a significant increase in the abundance of 26 genera, including Streptococcus, Granulicatella, and Kluyvera, while the abundance of 14 genera, including Peptostreptococcus, Neisseria, and Schaalia, is significantly reduced. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of oral microbial markers in the training cohort and validation cohort was 98.85% and 97.23%, respectively. Importantly, the AUC of the biomarker set achieved 92.44% of additional independent validation sets. In addition, EPRs also have their own unique oral community. Conclusion This study describes the characterization of the oral microbiome in EP and EPR and demonstrates the potential of the specific microbiome as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Lian
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- The Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tianwen Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Lou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shanshuo Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Limin Jin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yajun Lian
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhigang Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Konomatsu K, Kakisaka Y, Ishida M, Soga T, Ukishiro K, Osawa SI, Jin K, Aoki M, Nakasato N. Referral odyssey plot to visualize causes of surgical delay in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 147:109434. [PMID: 37716330 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
The "odyssey plot" was used to visualize referral delays in epilepsy surgery. Participants were 36 patients (19 males; 13-67 years, median 27 years) with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) who underwent resection surgery. The "referral odyssey plot" included five clinical episodes: seizure onset (T1), first visits to a non-epileptologist (T2) and to an epileptologist (T3), first admission to our epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) (T4), and resection surgery (T5). For each patient, we identified the first seizure type: the physician who first diagnosed focal aware seizure (FAS), focal impaired awareness seizure (FIAS), focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizure (FBTCS), and radiologically suspected HS. Within the overall delay (T1-T5, median 18 years; interquartile range [IQR] 14), non-epileptologist's delay (T2-T3, 11.5 years; IQR 12.25) was far (p < 0.0001) longer than patient's (T1-T2, 0 year; IQR 2.25), epileptologist's (T3-T4, 1 year; IQR 4), or after-EMU delay (T4-T5, 1 year; IQR 1). FAS onset cases had significantly longer T1-T2 (N = 5, median 7 years; IQR 6) than FIAS (N = 22, 0 year; IQR 1, p < 0.005) or FBTCS onset cases (N = 9, 0 year; IQR 0, p < 0.001). FAS was correctly diagnosed first by non-epileptologists in 17.9%, by out-patient epileptologists in 35.7%, and at the EMU in 46.4%. FIAS was correctly diagnosed first by non-epileptologists in 94.4% and by out-patient epileptologists in 5.6%. Non-epileptologists diagnosed FBTCS in all cases. HS was diagnosed by non-epileptologists in 13.9%, by out-patient epileptologists in 47.2%, and at the EMU in 38.9%. Early referral to epileptologists is most critical for early surgery. Early utilization of the EMU is highly recommended because FAS is often overlooked by outpatient epileptologists. The odyssey plot will be useful to improve the healthcare system for other types of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutoshi Konomatsu
- Departments of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; Departments of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Yosuke Kakisaka
- Departments of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan.
| | - Makoto Ishida
- Departments of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Temma Soga
- Departments of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; Departments of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kazushi Ukishiro
- Departments of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichiro Osawa
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Kazutaka Jin
- Departments of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Masashi Aoki
- Departments of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Nobukazu Nakasato
- Departments of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
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Bayanova M, Bolatov AK, Bazenova A, Nazarova L, Nauryzbayeva A, Tanko NM, Rakhimova S, Satvaldina N, Samakyzy D, Kozhamkulov U, Kairov U, Akilzhanova A, Sarbassov D. Whole-Genome Sequencing Among Kazakhstani Children with Early-Onset Epilepsy Revealed New Gene Variants and Phenotypic Variability. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:4324-4335. [PMID: 37095367 PMCID: PMC10293429 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03346-3] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
In Kazakhstan, there is insufficient data on genetic epilepsy, which has its own clinical and management implications. Thus, this study aimed to use whole genome sequencing to identify and evaluate genetic variants and genetic structure of early onset epilepsy in the Kazakhstani pediatric population. In this study, for the first time in Kazakhstan, whole genome sequencing was carried out among epilepsy diagnosed children. The study involved 20 pediatric patients with early onset epilepsy and no established cause of the disease during the July-December, 2021. The average age at enrolment was 34.5 months, with a mean age at seizure onset of 6 months. Six patients (30%) were male, and 7 were familial cases. We identified pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in 14 (70%) cases, among them, 6 novel disease gene variants (KCNQ2, CASK, WWOX, MT-CO3, GRIN2D, and SLC12A5). Other genes associated with the disease were SCN1A (x2), SLC2A1, ARX, CACNA1B, PCDH19, KCNT1, and CHRNA2. Identification of the genetic causes in 70% of cases confirms the general structure of the etiology of early onset epilepsy and the necessity of using NGS in diagnostics. Moreover, the study describes new genotype-phenotypic correlations in genetic epilepsy. Despite certain limitations of the study, it can be concluded that the genetic etiology of pediatric epilepsy in Kazakhstan is very broad and requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirgul Bayanova
- University Medical Center CF, Kerey-Zhanibek Handar St. 5/1, Z05P3Y4, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Aidos K. Bolatov
- University Medical Center CF, Kerey-Zhanibek Handar St. 5/1, Z05P3Y4, Astana, Kazakhstan
- Astana Medical University, Beybitshilik St. 49A, Z10K9D9, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Assiya Bazenova
- University Medical Center CF, Kerey-Zhanibek Handar St. 5/1, Z05P3Y4, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Lyazzat Nazarova
- University Medical Center CF, Kerey-Zhanibek Handar St. 5/1, Z05P3Y4, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Alissa Nauryzbayeva
- University Medical Center CF, Kerey-Zhanibek Handar St. 5/1, Z05P3Y4, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Naanlep Matthew Tanko
- University Medical Center CF, Kerey-Zhanibek Handar St. 5/1, Z05P3Y4, Astana, Kazakhstan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Saule Rakhimova
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Nazerke Satvaldina
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Diana Samakyzy
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Ulan Kozhamkulov
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Ulykbek Kairov
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Ainur Akilzhanova
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Dos Sarbassov
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
- School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay batyr Ave 53, Astana, Kazakhstan 010000
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10
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Perampanel Monotherapy for Focal and Generalized Epilepsy in Clinical Practice. Acta Neurol Scand 2023. [DOI: 10.1155/2023/2852853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Objectives. To investigate the effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of perampanel (PER) when used as monotherapy to treat focal or generalized epilepsy in everyday clinical practice, using data from the PERMIT study. Methods. PERMIT was a pooled analysis of 44 real-world studies from 17 countries, in which people with focal and generalized epilepsy were treated with PER. This post hoc analysis included people with epilepsy (PWE) from PERMIT who were treated with PER monotherapy at baseline. Retention and effectiveness were assessed after 3, 6, and 12 months. Effectiveness assessments included ≥50% responder rate and seizure freedom rate (no seizures since at least the prior visit). Safety and tolerability were assessed by evaluating adverse events (AEs) and discontinuation due to AEs. Results. Overall, 268 PWE were treated with PER monotherapy at baseline. Retention was assessed for 168 PWE, effectiveness for 183 PWE, and safety and tolerability for 197 PWE. Retention rates were 91.1%, 87.3%, and 73.3% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. At 12 months, responder rates were 84.2% overall, 82.9% in PWE with only focal-onset seizures at baseline, and 88.0% in those with only generalized-onset seizures at baseline; corresponding freedom rates were 62.9%, 57.7%, and 80.0%, respectively. AEs were reported for 45.2% of PWE. The most frequently reported AEs (≥5% of PWE) were dizziness/vertigo (16.8%), irritability (11.2%), somnolence (9.1%), and depression (6.6%). Over 12 months, 13.7% discontinued due to AEs. Conclusions. PER was effective when used as monotherapy in clinical practice, particularly in those with generalized-onset seizures, and was generally well tolerated.
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11
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Neligan A, Adan G, Nevitt SJ, Pullen A, Sander JW, Bonnett L, Marson AG. Prognosis of adults and children following a first unprovoked seizure. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 1:CD013847. [PMID: 36688481 PMCID: PMC9869434 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013847.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is clinically defined as two or more unprovoked epileptic seizures more than 24 hours apart. Given that, a diagnosis of epilepsy can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality, it is imperative that clinicians (and people with seizures and their relatives) have access to accurate and reliable prognostic estimates, to guide clinical practice on the risks of developing further unprovoked seizures (and by definition, a diagnosis of epilepsy) following single unprovoked epileptic seizure. OBJECTIVES 1. To provide an accurate estimate of the proportion of individuals going on to have further unprovoked seizures at subsequent time points following a single unprovoked epileptic seizure (or cluster of epileptic seizures within a 24-hour period, or a first episode of status epilepticus), of any seizure type (overall prognosis). 2. To evaluate the mortality rate following a first unprovoked epileptic seizure. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases on 19 September 2019 and again on 30 March 2021, with no language restrictions. The Cochrane Register of Studies (CRS Web), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to March 29, 2021), SCOPUS (1823 onwards), ClinicalTrials.gov, the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP). CRS Web includes randomized or quasi-randomized, controlled trials from PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and the Specialized Registers of Cochrane Review Groups including Epilepsy. In MEDLINE (Ovid) the coverage end date always lags a few days behind the search date. SELECTION CRITERIA We included studies, both retrospective and prospective, of all age groups (except those in the neonatal period (< 1 month of age)), of people with a single unprovoked seizure, followed up for a minimum of six months, with no upper limit of follow-up, with the study end point being seizure recurrence, death, or loss to follow-up. To be included, studies must have included at least 30 participants. We excluded studies that involved people with seizures that occur as a result of an acute precipitant or provoking factor, or in close temporal proximity to an acute neurological insult, since these are not considered epileptic in aetiology (acute symptomatic seizures). We also excluded people with situational seizures, such as febrile convulsions. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors conducted the initial screening of titles and abstracts identified through the electronic searches, and removed non-relevant articles. We obtained the full-text articles of all remaining potentially relevant studies, or those whose relevance could not be determined from the abstract alone and two authors independently assessed for eligibility. All disagreements were resolved through discussion with no need to defer to a third review author. We extracted data from included studies using a data extraction form based on the checklist for critical appraisal and data extraction for systematicreviews of prediction modelling studies (CHARMS). Two review authors then appraised the included studies, using a standardised approach based on the quality in prognostic studies (QUIPS) tool, which was adapted for overall prognosis (seizure recurrence). We conducted a meta-analysis using Review Manager 2014, with a random-effects generic inverse variance meta-analysis model, which accounted for any between-study heterogeneity in the prognostic effect. We then summarised the meta-analysis by the pooled estimate (the average prognostic factor effect), its 95% confidence interval (CI), the estimates of I² and Tau² (heterogeneity), and a 95% prediction interval for the prognostic effect in a single population at three various time points, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months. Subgroup analysis was performed according to the ages of the cohorts included; studies involving all ages, studies that recruited adult only and those that were purely paediatric. MAIN RESULTS Fifty-eight studies (involving 54 cohorts), with a total of 12,160 participants (median 147, range 31 to 1443), met the inclusion criteria for the review. Of the 58 studies, 26 studies were paediatric studies, 16 were adult and the remaining 16 studies were a combination of paediatric and adult populations. Most included studies had a cohort study design with two case-control studies and one nested case-control study. Thirty-two studies (29 cohorts) reported a prospective longitudinal design whilst 15 studies had a retrospective design whilst the remaining studies were randomised controlled trials. Nine of the studies included presented mortality data following a first unprovoked seizure. For a mortality study to be included, a proportional mortality ratio (PMR) or a standardised mortality ratio (SMR) had to be given at a specific time point following a first unprovoked seizure. To be included in the meta-analysis a study had to present clear seizure recurrence data at 6 months, 12 months or 24 months. Forty-six studies were included in the meta-analysis, of which 23 were paediatric, 13 were adult, and 10 were a combination of paediatric and adult populations. A meta-analysis was performed at three time points; six months, one year and two years for all ages combined, paediatric and adult studies, respectively. We found an estimated overall seizure recurrence of all included studies at six months of 27% (95% CI 24% to 31%), 36% (95% CI 33% to 40%) at one year and 43% (95% CI 37% to 44%) at two years, with slightly lower estimates for adult subgroup analysis and slightly higher estimates for paediatric subgroup analysis. It was not possible to provide a summary estimate of the risk of seizure recurrence beyond these time points as most of the included studies were of short follow-up and too few studies presented recurrence rates at a single time point beyond two years. The evidence presented was found to be of moderate certainty. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Despite the limitations of the data (moderate-certainty of evidence), mainly relating to clinical and methodological heterogeneity we have provided summary estimates for the likely risk of seizure recurrence at six months, one year and two years for both children and adults. This provides information that is likely to be useful for the clinician counselling patients (or their parents) on the probable risk of further seizures in the short-term whilst acknowledging the paucity of long-term recurrence data, particularly beyond 10 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan Neligan
- Homerton University Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Guleed Adan
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah J Nevitt
- Department of Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Josemir W Sander
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Laura Bonnett
- Department of Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
- Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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School performance and psychiatric comorbidity in childhood absence epilepsy: A Danish cohort study. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2023; 42:75-81. [PMID: 36584475 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to determine school performance and psychiatric comorbidity in children with childhood absence epilepsy (CAE). We reviewed the medical records in children with ICD-10 codes for idiopathic generalized epilepsy before 18 years of age, and pediatric neurologists confirmed the International League Against Epilepsy criteria for CAE were met. Control groups were the general pediatric population or children with non-neurological chronic disease. Outcomes were from nationwide and population-based registers on school performance and psychiatric comorbidity. We compared the mean grade point average using linear regression and estimated hazard ratios (HR) using Cox regression for the other outcomes. Analyses were adjusted for the child's sex, and year of birth, and parental highest education, receipt of cash benefits or early disability pension. We included 114 children with CAE with a median age at onset of 5.9 years (interquartile range = 4.5-7.3 years). Compared with both population controls and non-neurological chronically ill children, children with CAE had increased hazard of special needs education (HR = 2.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.8-4.1, p < 0.0001), lower grade point average at 9th grade by 1.7 grade points (95% CI = -2.5 to -1.0, p < 0.001), increased ADHD medicine use (HR = 4.4, 95% CI = 2.7-7.2, p < 0.001), increased sleep medicine use (HR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.7-4.3, p < 0.001), and increased psychiatry visits (HR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.1-4.0, p = 0.03). In conclusion, children with CAE have increased psychiatric comorbidity and a considerable proportion of these children receive special needs education in primary/secondary school, albeit insufficient to normalize their considerably lower grade point average in the 9th grade.
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13
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On epilepsy perception: Unravelling gaps and issues. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 137:108952. [PMID: 36306590 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases, but it can sometimes be under-reported or have a time delay in diagnosis. This data is not surprising if we consider that a person often seeks medical attention only after presenting a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Epilepsy diagnostic delay is caused by several factors: under-reporting by patients, under-diagnosed epileptic manifestations by inexperienced clinicians, and lack of time in the emergency setting. The consequences of this delay are increased accidents, a high rate of premature mortality, and economic expanses for the healthcare system. Moreover, people with epilepsy have a higher probability of comorbidities than the general population, such as mood disorders or cognitive problems. Along with recurrent seizures, these comorbid diseases promote isolation and stigmatization of people with epilepsy, who suffer from discrimination at school, in the workplace, and even in social relationships. Public awareness of epilepsy and its comorbidities is necessary to prevent diagnostic delays and overcome social and professional iniquities for people with epilepsy.
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14
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Li Z, Huang J, Wei W, Jiang S, Liu H, Luo H, Ruan J. EEG Oscillatory Networks in Peri-Ictal Period of Absence Epilepsy. Front Neurol 2022; 13:825225. [PMID: 35547382 PMCID: PMC9081722 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.825225] [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: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the dynamical brain network changes before and after an absence seizure episode in absence epilepsy (AE). Methods 21 AE patients with a current high frequency of seizures and 21 sex- and age-matched health control (HC) who reported no history of neurological or psychiatric disorders and visited the hospital for routine physical examinations were included. Each included subject underwent a 2-h and 19-channel video EEG examination. For AE patients, five epochs of 10-s EEG data in inter-ictal, pre-ictal, and post-ictal states were collected. For the HC group, five 10-s resting-state EEG epochs were extracted. Functional independent components analysis (ICA) was carried out using the LORETA KEY tool. Results Compared with the resting-state EEG data of the HC group, the EEG data from AE patients during inter-ictal periods showed decreased alpha oscillations in regions involving the superior frontal gyrus (SFG) (BA11). From inter-ictal to pre-ictal, SFG (BA10) showed maximum decreased delta oscillations. Additionally, from pre-ictal to post-ictal, superior temporal gyrus (STG) (BA 22) presented maximum increased neural activity in the alpha band. Moreover, compared with inter-ictal EEG, post-ictal EEG showed significantly decreased theta activity in SFG (BA8). Conclusion The changes in SFG alpha oscillations are the key brain network differences between inter-ictal EEG of AE patients and resting-state EEG of HCs. The brain networks of EEG oscillatory during peri-ictal episodes are mainly involving SFG and STG. Our study suggests that altered EEG brain networks dynamics exist between inter-ictal EEG of AE patients and resting-state EEG of HCs and between pre- and post-ictal EEG in AE patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiye Li
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, Luzhou, China
| | - Jialing Huang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, Luzhou, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, Luzhou, China
| | - Sili Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, Luzhou, China
| | - Hua Luo
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, Luzhou, China
| | - Jianghai Ruan
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, Luzhou, China
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15
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Yang M, Tan KM, Carney P, Kwan P, O'Brien TJ, Berkovic SF, Perucca P, McIntosh AM. Diagnostic delay in focal epilepsy: association with brain pathology and age. Seizure 2022; 96:121-127. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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16
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Denton A, Thorpe L, Carter A, Angarita-Fonseca A, Waterhouse K, Hernandez Ronquillo L. Definitions and Risk Factors for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy in an Adult Cohort. Front Neurol 2021; 12:777888. [PMID: 34966348 PMCID: PMC8710721 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.777888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Less than one-third of people with epilepsy will develop drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Establishing the prognosis of each unique epilepsy case is an important part of evaluation and treatment.Most studies on DRE prognosis have been based on a pooled, heterogeneous group, including children, adults, and older adults, in the absence of clear recognition and control of important confounders, such as age group. Furthermore, previous studies were done before the 2010 definition of DRE by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), so data based on the current definitions have not been entirely elucidated. This study aimed to explore the difference between 3 definitions of DRE and clinical predictors of DRE in adults and older adults. Methods: Patients with a new diagnosis of epilepsy ascertained at a Single Seizure Clinic (SSC) in Saskatchewan, Canada were included if they had at least 1 year of follow-up. The first study outcome was the diagnosis of DRE epilepsy at follow-up using the 2010 ILAE definition. This was compared with 2 alternative definitions of DRE by Kwan and Brodie and Camfield and Camfield. Finally, risk factors were analyzed using the ILAE definition. Results: In total, 95 patients with a new diagnosis of epilepsy and a median follow-up of 24 months were included. The median age of patients at the diagnosis of epilepsy was 33 years, and 51% were men. In the cohort, 32% of patients were diagnosed with DRE by the Kwan and Brodie definition, 10% by Camfield and Camfield definition, and 15% by the ILAE definition by the end of follow-up. The only statistically significant risk factor for DRE development was the failure to respond to the first anti-seizure medication (ASM). Conclusion: There were important differences in the percentage of patients diagnosed with DRE when using 3 concurrent definitions. However, the use of the ILAE definition appeared to be the most consistent through an extended follow-up. Finally, failure to respond to the first ASM was the sole significant risk factor for DRE in the cohort after considering the age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Denton
- College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Lilian Thorpe
- Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Alexandra Carter
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Saskatchewan Epilepsy Program, Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Adriana Angarita-Fonseca
- Universite du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue, Rouyn Noranda, QC, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier del l'Universite de Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Karen Waterhouse
- Saskatchewan Epilepsy Program, Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Lizbeth Hernandez Ronquillo
- Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Saskatchewan Epilepsy Program, Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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17
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Abdennadher M, Saxena A, Pavlova MK. Evaluation and Management of First-Time Seizure in Adults. Semin Neurol 2021; 41:477-482. [PMID: 34619775 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1735143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
First seizures are often perceived as devastating events by patients and their families due to the fear of having a life-long disease. One in 10 people experiences one or more seizures during their lifetime, while 1 in 26 people develops epilepsy. Acute symptomatic seizures are often related to a provoking factor or an acute brain insult and typically do not recur. Careful history and clinical examination should guide clinicians' management plans. Electroencephalography and brain imaging, preferably with epilepsy-specific magnetic resonance imaging, may help characterize both etiology and risk of seizure recurrence. Antiepileptic drugs should be initiated in patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy. In patients without an epilepsy diagnosis, the decision to prescribe drugs depends on individual risk factors for seizure recurrence and possible complications from seizures, which should be discussed with the patient. Counseling about driving and lifestyle modifications should be provided early, often at the first seizure encounter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Abdennadher
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Aneeta Saxena
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Milena K Pavlova
- Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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18
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Beghi E. Does diagnostic delay impact on the outcome of epilepsy? Epilepsia Open 2021. [PMCID: PMC8408596 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Beghi
- Department of Neuroscience Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS Milan Italy
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19
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Sub-genic intolerance, ClinVar, and the epilepsies: A whole-exome sequencing study of 29,165 individuals. Am J Hum Genet 2021; 108:965-982. [PMID: 33932343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Both mild and severe epilepsies are influenced by variants in the same genes, yet an explanation for the resulting phenotypic variation is unknown. As part of the ongoing Epi25 Collaboration, we performed a whole-exome sequencing analysis of 13,487 epilepsy-affected individuals and 15,678 control individuals. While prior Epi25 studies focused on gene-based collapsing analyses, we asked how the pattern of variation within genes differs by epilepsy type. Specifically, we compared the genetic architectures of severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) and two generally less severe epilepsies, genetic generalized epilepsy and non-acquired focal epilepsy (NAFE). Our gene-based rare variant collapsing analysis used geographic ancestry-based clustering that included broader ancestries than previously possible and revealed novel associations. Using the missense intolerance ratio (MTR), we found that variants in DEE-affected individuals are in significantly more intolerant genic sub-regions than those in NAFE-affected individuals. Only previously reported pathogenic variants absent in available genomic datasets showed a significant burden in epilepsy-affected individuals compared with control individuals, and the ultra-rare pathogenic variants associated with DEE were located in more intolerant genic sub-regions than variants associated with non-DEE epilepsies. MTR filtering improved the yield of ultra-rare pathogenic variants in affected individuals compared with control individuals. Finally, analysis of variants in genes without a disease association revealed a significant burden of loss-of-function variants in the genes most intolerant to such variation, indicating additional epilepsy-risk genes yet to be discovered. Taken together, our study suggests that genic and sub-genic intolerance are critical characteristics for interpreting the effects of variation in genes that influence epilepsy.
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Alessi N, Perucca P, McIntosh AM. Missed, mistaken, stalled: Identifying components of delay to diagnosis in epilepsy. Epilepsia 2021; 62:1494-1504. [PMID: 34013535 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A substantial proportion of individuals with newly diagnosed epilepsy report prior seizures, suggesting a missed opportunity for early epilepsy care and management. Consideration of the causes and outcomes of diagnostic delay is needed to address this issue. We aimed to review the literature pertaining to delay to diagnosis of epilepsy, describing the components, characteristics, and risk factors for delay. We undertook a systematic search of the literature for full-length original research papers with a focus on diagnostic delay or seizures before diagnosis, published 1998-2020. Findings were collated, and a narrative review was undertaken. Seventeen papers met the inclusion criteria. Studies utilized two measures of diagnostic delay: seizures before diagnosis and/or a study-defined time between first seizure and presentation/diagnosis. The proportion of patients with diagnostic delay ranged from 16% to 77%; 75% of studies reported 38% or more to be affected. Delays of 1 year or more were reported in 13%-16% of patients. Seizures prior to diagnosis were predominantly nonconvulsive, and usually more than one seizure was reported. Prior seizures were often missed or mistaken for symptoms of other conditions. Key delays in the progression to specialist review and diagnosis were (1) "decision delay" (the patient's decision to seek/not seek medical review), (2) "referral delay" (delay by primary care/emergency physician referring to specialist), and (3) "attendance delay" (delay in attending specialist review). There were few data available relevant to risk factors and virtually none relevant to outcomes of diagnostic delay. This review found that diagnostic delay consists of several components, and progression to diagnosis can stall at several points. There is limited information relating to most aspects of delay apart from prevalence and seizure types. Risk factors and outcomes may differ according to delay characteristics and for each of the key delays, and recommendations for future research include examining each before consideration of interventions is made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Alessi
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), Epilepsy Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Piero Perucca
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), Epilepsy Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anne M McIntosh
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), Epilepsy Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Melbourne Brain Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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21
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Dey S, Banerjee Dixit A, Tripathi M, Doddamani RS, Sharma MC, Lalwani S, Chandra PS, Banerjee J. Altered hippocampal kynurenine pathway metabolism contributes to hyperexcitability in human mesial temporal lobe epilepsy-hippocampal sclerosis. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:3959-3976. [PMID: 33990935 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Glutamate receptor-mediated enhanced excitatory neurotransmission is typically associated with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE-HS). Kynurenic acid and quinolinic acid are two important tryptophan-kynurenine pathway metabolites that modulate glutamate receptor activity. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that alteration in metabolism of tryptophan-kynurenine pathway metabolites in the hippocampus of patients with MTLE-HS contributes to abnormal glutamatergic transmission. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Levels of tryptophan-kynurenine pathway metabolites were determined using HPLC and LC-MS/MS in hippocampal samples from patients with MTLE-HS, compared with autopsy and non-seizure control samples. mRNA and protein expressions of tryptophan-kynurenine pathway enzymes were determined by qPCR and Western blot. Spontaneous glutamatergic activities were recorded from pyramidal neurons in the presence of kynurenine and kynurenic acid, using whole-cell patch clamp. KEY RESULTS Levels of kynurenic acid were reduced and quinolinic acid levels were raised in hippocampal samples from MTLE-HS patients, whereas kynurenine levels remained unaltered, compared with levels in non-seizure controls. Spontaneous glutamatergic activity in MTLE-HS hippocampal samples was higher than that in non-seizure controls. Treatment with kynurenine inhibited glutamatergic activity in non-seizure control samples but not in MTLE-HS samples. However, exogenously applied kynurenic acid inhibited glutamatergic activity in both non-seizure control and MTLE-HS hippocampal samples. Also, levels of kynurenine aminotransferase II and its cofactor pyridoxal phosphate were reduced in MTLE-HS samples. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings indicate that altered metabolism of tryptophan-kynurenine pathway metabolites in hippocampus could contribute to hyperglutamatergic tone in patients with MTLE-HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumil Dey
- Department of Neurosurgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Aparna Banerjee Dixit
- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Manjari Tripathi
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Mehar Chand Sharma
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjeev Lalwani
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Jyotirmoy Banerjee
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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22
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Sonoda Y, Sanefuji M, Ichimiya Y, Torio M, Watanabe E, Sakata A, Ishizaki Y, Sakai Y, Ohga S. Age-related morphological differences in the spike-and-wave complexes of absence epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2021; 174:106647. [PMID: 33915304 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2021.106647] [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: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Absence epilepsy shows age-related clinical features, as is observed in childhood and juvenile absence epilepsy. Electroencephalogram (EEG) is characterized by bursts of 3 Hz spike-and-wave complex (SWC). We noticed a morphological variation of the slow-wave component of SWCs between patients. This study investigated whether the waveform of SWC might be associated with the child's age of this epilepsy. METHODS Digitally-recorded EEGs under medication-free conditions were collected from 25 children who received the diagnosis of childhood or juvenile absence epilepsy. The morphology of slow wave in SWC in the frontal midline region was quantitatively compared between younger and older children using a cluster-based permutation test. RESULTS At <7 years of age (2.9-6.5 years of age, n = 6), the electrical potential of the descending slope in the slow wave was positively correlated with age whereas this correlation was not observed in patients of ≥7 years of age (7.1-12.9 years, n = 19). A cluster-based permutation test confirmed the results-among the entire slow wave period (0-285 msec), the period of the descending slope (195-260 msec) showed significantly lower potential in patients of <7 years of age in comparison to patients of ≥7 years of age (sum of t-values: 46.57, p-value: 0.011). CONCLUSIONS The current study demonstrated an age-dependent morphological difference in the slow-wave components of SWCs in EEGs of patients with pediatric absence epilepsy. This finding may provide a clue to understanding the age-related clinical manifestations of this epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Sonoda
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Research Center for Environment and Developmental Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masafumi Sanefuji
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Research Center for Environment and Developmental Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
| | - Yuko Ichimiya
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Michiko Torio
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Eriko Watanabe
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Ayumi Sakata
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Yoshito Ishizaki
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Fukuoka Higashi Medical Center, 1-1-1 Chidori, Koga, Fukuoka, 811-3195, Japan
| | - Yasunari Sakai
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Shouichi Ohga
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
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23
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Haddad N, Melikyan G, Alarcon G, Shaheen Y, Siddiqi M, Ali E, Mesraoua B, AlHail H, Al-Abdulghani A, Alrabi A, Syamala A, Kazi F, Mahfoud Z. 24-Hour video EEG in the evaluation of the first unprovoked seizure. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2021; 6:123-128. [PMID: 33997530 PMCID: PMC8089767 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In the evaluation of a first seizure, the capture of epileptiform discharges is increased with 24-hour EEG recordings. This likely stems from a combination of increased sampling and robust sleep recording. Subtle seizures were also recorded by prolonging the EEG in a minority of first seizure presentations.
Objective To assess the gain in detection of epileptiform abnormalities in 24-hour EEG recordings following the first seizure. Methods We identified patients who underwent 24-hour video EEG (VEEG) with “first seizure” as an indication. We noted the presence or absence of epileptiform discharges (EDs) in the VEEG study and the latency for the appearance of such discharges. We compared the rate of EDs during the initial 60 min with those occurring only later during the recording. Results Data from 25 patients, aged 15 to 59, were included. Of the 11 patients with EDs, eight (73%) appeared only after 60 min of recording. This equates to a 32% absolute increase in the detection of EDs across all patients. The latency to first EDs varied from one to 1080 min with a median of 170 min. In four cases, actual subtle seizures were recorded. Conclusion This study suggests an increase in the detection of EDs with the 24-hour studies compared to the traditional shorter recordings, in the context of a first seizure. Significance A standard EEG can be performed close to the seizure, followed by a longer up to 24-hour recording if the initial shorter study is unrevealing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naim Haddad
- Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, PO Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Gayane Melikyan
- Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, PO Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Gonzalo Alarcon
- Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, PO Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yanal Shaheen
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, PO Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Elfateh Ali
- Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Boulenouar Mesraoua
- Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, PO Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hassan AlHail
- Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, PO Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | - Farhana Kazi
- Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ziyad Mahfoud
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, PO Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
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24
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McIntosh AM, Tan KM, Hakami TM, Newton MR, Carney PW, Yang M, Saya S, Marco DJT, Perucca P, Kwan P, O’Brien TJ, Berkovic SF. Newly diagnosed seizures assessed at two established first seizure clinics: Clinic characteristics, investigations, and findings over 11 years. Epilepsia Open 2021; 6:171-180. [PMID: 33681660 PMCID: PMC7918310 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective 'First seizure' clinics (FSCs) aim to achieve early expert assessment for individuals with possible new-onset epilepsy. These clinics also have substantial potential for research into epilepsy evolution, outcomes, and costs. However, a paucity of FSCs details has implications for interpretation and utilization of this research. Methods We reviewed investigation findings over 11 years (2000-2010) from two established independent FSCs at Austin Health (AH) and Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH), Australia. These adult clinics are in major public hospitals and operate with similar levels of expertise. Organizational differences include screening and dedicated administration at AH. Included were N = 1555 patients diagnosed with new-onset unprovoked seizures/epilepsy (AH n = 901, RMH n = 654). Protocol-driven interviews and investigations had been recorded prospectively and were extracted from medical records for study. Results Median patient age was 37 (IQR 26-52, range 18-94) years (AH 34 vs RMH 42 years; P < .001). Eighty-six percent of patients attended FSC within three weeks postindex seizure (median AH 12 vs RMH 25 days; P < .01). By their first appointment, 42% had experienced ≥2 seizures. An EEG was obtained within three weeks postindex seizure in 73% of patients, demonstrating epileptiform discharges in 25% (AH 33% vs RMH 15%). Seventy-six percent of patients had an MRI within 6 weeks. Of those with imaging (n = 1500), 19% had potentially epileptogenic abnormalities (RMH 28% vs AH 12%; P < .01). At both sites, changes due to previous stroke/hemorrhage were the commonest lesions, followed by traumatic brain injury. ≥WHO level 1 brain tumors diagnosed at presentation comprised a very small proportion (<1%) at each clinic. At both sites, epilepsy type could be determined in 60% of patients; RMH had more focal and AH more generalized epilepsy diagnoses. Significance Differences between the clinics' administrative and screening practices may contribute to differences in investigation findings. Insight into these differences will facilitate interpretation and utilization, and planning of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. McIntosh
- The Melbourne Brain CentreThe Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- The Department of NeurologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- Epilepsy Research CentreDepartment of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeuroscienceCentral Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - K. Meng Tan
- The Melbourne Brain CentreThe Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- The Department of NeurologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- Gold Coast University Medical CentreSouthportAustralia
| | - Tahir M. Hakami
- The Melbourne Brain CentreThe Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- The Faculty of MedicineUniversity of JazanJazanSaudi Arabia
| | - Mark R. Newton
- Epilepsy Research CentreDepartment of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAustin HealthHeidelbergAustralia
| | - Patrick W. Carney
- Department of NeurologyAustin HealthHeidelbergAustralia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental HealthParkvilleAustralia
- Department of MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Eastern HealthBox HillAustralia
| | - Mengjiazhi Yang
- The Melbourne Brain CentreThe Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- The Department of NeurologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sibel Saya
- Epilepsy Research CentreDepartment of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Centre for Cancer ResearchThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Department of General PracticeThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - David J. T. Marco
- Epilepsy Research CentreDepartment of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Centre for Palliative CareSt Vincent’s HospitalMelbourneAustralia
| | - Piero Perucca
- The Melbourne Brain CentreThe Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- The Department of NeurologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeuroscienceCentral Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneAustralia
| | - Patrick Kwan
- The Melbourne Brain CentreThe Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- The Department of NeurologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeuroscienceCentral Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Department of MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneAustralia
| | - Terence J. O’Brien
- The Melbourne Brain CentreThe Department of MedicineThe University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- The Department of NeurologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeuroscienceCentral Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneAustralia
| | - Samuel F. Berkovic
- Epilepsy Research CentreDepartment of Medicine (Austin Health)University of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAustin HealthHeidelbergAustralia
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25
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Wang S, Boston R, Lawn N, Seneviratne U. Temporal patterns in the first unprovoked seizure. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 115:107625. [PMID: 33421854 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cyclic phenomena in epilepsy are well recognized. We investigated a multicenter cohort of unprovoked first seizure presentations to determine whether seizures have a preponderance to occur in: a particular time of the day, a particular day of the week, a particular month of the year, day time versus night time, and wakefulness versus sleep. METHODS We retrospectively studied adults who presented with a first-ever unprovoked seizure to the First Seizure Clinic at two tertiary centers in Australia. Seizure onset time was obtained from the emergency department and ambulance documentations. Electro-clinical and neuroimaging findings were reviewed. We used histograms and Poisson regression modeling to determine whether seizures have a preponderance to occur at a particular time and calculated incidence rate ratios (IRR). We performed further analysis on patients with "first seizure epilepsy" and "first seizure not epilepsy" based on the ILAE criteria for a diagnosis of epilepsy after a single unprovoked seizure, as well as comparing patients that could be categorized as having a generalized-onset seizure versus those with focal-onset seizures. RESULTS We analyzed 1724 patients (38% females; age range 14-97 yr, median 39 yr), of whom 18% had epileptiform abnormalities on EEG and potentially epileptogenic lesions were detected on neuroimaging in 28%. Whole cohort analysis shows the incidence rate ratios (IRR) of seizures varied significantly across the 24-hour clock-time of the day (p < 0.001), peaking at hour 12 (IRR 3.18). The first unprovoked seizure was significantly less likely to be reported during the night (IRR 0.61, p < 0.001) and during sleep (IRR 0.29, p < 0.001). Both the "first seizure epilepsy" and "first seizure not epilepsy" subgroups' analysis demonstrated similar patterns. An infraradian pattern was also noted with seizures most likely to occur in May (IRR 1.29, p = 0.02). Both "first seizure epilepsy - generalized" and "first seizure epilepsy - focal" groups had a preponderance for seizures to occur during the day versus night and wakefulness as opposed to sleep, but the association was more robust for generalized seizures. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that temporal patterns are seen in patients with first-ever unprovoked seizures, including those that meet contemporary criteria for epilepsy. These results raise the possibility that first unprovoked seizures have intrinsic rhythmicity similar to epileptic seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu Wang
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Ray Boston
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Nicholas Lawn
- Western Australia Adult Epilepsy Service, Perth, Australia.
| | - Udaya Seneviratne
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Neuroscience, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
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Mc Manus E, Gilbertson L, Timmings P, Lynch C, Asztely F. Long-term outcome of 200 patients referred to a first seizure clinic. Acta Neurol Scand 2021; 143:140-145. [PMID: 32885416 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine what proportion of our First Seizure referrals reflected true unprovoked first seizures or epilepsy, and to assess the long-term diagnostic accuracy of our First Seizure Clinic (FSC) by quantifying the risk of subsequent seizures in our FSC cohort. METHODS We prospectively collected data of 200 adult patients referred to the FSC between May 2014 and December 2015. We reviewed clinical notes, electroencephalography (EEG) data and performed telephone follow-up at 28-month post-diagnosis. RESULTS Of the 200 patients referred to the FSC, 181 attended. At the initial assessment, 39 of these patients were diagnosed with epilepsy, with most of these patients (59%) found to have a history of previous seizures. Fifty patients were diagnosed with a first seizure, of which 28% were labelled as provoked seizures. Sixty nine of the patients received another diagnosis and 23 were labelled as indeterminable. At 28 months follow-up, 11 (22%) of patients who received a diagnosis of first seizure subsequently received a diagnosis of epilepsy. In the remaining groups, only 5 (5%) patients were diagnosed with epilepsy (of these three were in the indeterminable group). CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that 50% of the patients referred to a FSC had not experienced a seizure but were given an alternative diagnosis. Secondly, our study indicates that the risk of seizure recurrence following a first seizure is quite low (22%). This is because a substantial proportion of the patients were diagnosed with epilepsy already at the first assessment. The high proportion of patients being diagnosed with epilepsy was mainly due to a history of previous seizures. Thirdly, patients who were given an alternative diagnosis at the first assessment had a low probability (5%) for seizure recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Mc Manus
- Department of Neurology Waikato Hospital Hamilton New Zealand
| | | | - Paul Timmings
- Department of Neurology Waikato Hospital Hamilton New Zealand
| | | | - Fredrik Asztely
- Department of Neurology Waikato Hospital Hamilton New Zealand
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology University of Gothenburg Gothenburg Sweden
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27
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Christian CA, Reddy DS, Maguire J, Forcelli PA. Sex Differences in the Epilepsies and Associated Comorbidities: Implications for Use and Development of Pharmacotherapies. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 72:767-800. [PMID: 32817274 DOI: 10.1124/pr.119.017392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The epilepsies are common neurologic disorders characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures. Boys, girls, men, and women of all ages are affected by epilepsy and, in many cases, by associated comorbidities as well. The primary courses of treatment are pharmacological, dietary, and/or surgical, depending on several factors, including the areas of the brain affected and the severity of the epilepsy. There is a growing appreciation that sex differences in underlying brain function and in the neurobiology of epilepsy are important factors that should be accounted for in the design and development of new therapies. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on sex differences in epilepsy and associated comorbidities, with emphasis on those aspects most informative for the development of new pharmacotherapies. Particular focus is placed on sex differences in the prevalence and presentation of various focal and generalized epilepsies; psychiatric, cognitive, and physiologic comorbidities; catamenial epilepsy in women; sex differences in brain development; the neural actions of sex and stress hormones and their metabolites; and cellular mechanisms, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling and neuronal-glial interactions. Further attention placed on potential sex differences in epilepsies, comorbidities, and drug effects will enhance therapeutic options and efficacy for all patients with epilepsy. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that often presents together with various comorbidities. The features of epilepsy and seizure activity as well as comorbid afflictions can vary between men and women. In this review, we discuss sex differences in types of epilepsies, associated comorbidities, pathophysiological mechanisms, and antiepileptic drug efficacy in both clinical patient populations and preclinical animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Christian
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
| | - Doodipala Samba Reddy
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
| | - Jamie Maguire
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
| | - Patrick A Forcelli
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
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28
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Blank LJ, Acton EK, Thibault D, Willis AW. Neurodegenerative disease is associated with increased incidence of epilepsy: a population based study of older adults. Age Ageing 2021; 50:205-212. [PMID: 33030514 PMCID: PMC7946790 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afaa194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the incidence of epilepsy among Medicare beneficiaries with a new diagnosis of Alzheimer dementia (AD) or Parkinson disease (PD). METHODS Retrospective cohort study of Medicare beneficiaries with an incident diagnosis of AD or PD in the year 2009. The 5-year incidence of epilepsy was examined by sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities and neurodegenerative disease status. Cox regression models examined the association of neurodegenerative disease with incident epilepsy, adjusting for demographic characteristics and medical comorbidities. RESULTS We identified 178,593 individuals with incident AD and 104,157 individuals with incident PD among 34,054,293 Medicare beneficiaries with complete data in 2009. Epilepsy was diagnosed in 4.45% (7,956) of AD patients and 4.81% (5,010) of PD patients between 2009 and 2014, approximately twice as frequently as in the control sample. Minority race/ethnicity was associated with increased risk of incident epilepsy. Among individuals with AD and PD, stroke was associated with increased epilepsy risk. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) was associated with increased epilepsy risk for individuals with PD. Depression was also associated with incident epilepsy (AD adjusted hazard ratio (AHR): 1.23 (1.17-1.29), PD AHR: 1.45 (1.37-1.54)). In PD only, a history of hip fracture (AHR, 1.35 (1.17-1.57)) and diabetes (AHR, 1.11 (1.05-1.18) were also associated with increased risk of epilepsy. CONCLUSION Incident epilepsy is more frequently diagnosed among neurodegenerative disease patients, particularly when preceded by a diagnosis of depression, TBI or stroke. Further studies into the differences in epilepsy risk between these two populations may help elucidate different mechanisms of epileptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah J Blank
- Department of Neurology, Division of Health Outcomes and Knowledge Translational Research, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily K Acton
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology Translational Center of Excellence for Neuroepidemiology and Neurological Outcomes Research, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dylan Thibault
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology Translational Center of Excellence for Neuroepidemiology and Neurological Outcomes Research, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Allison W Willis
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neurology Translational Center of Excellence for Neuroepidemiology and Neurological Outcomes Research, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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29
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Blank LJ, Acton EK, Willis AW. Predictors of Mortality in Older Adults With Epilepsy: Implications for Learning Health Systems. Neurology 2021; 96:e93-e101. [PMID: 33087496 PMCID: PMC7884975 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000011079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the incidence of epilepsy and subsequent 5-year mortality among older adults, as well as characteristics associated with mortality. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of Medicare beneficiaries age 65 or above with at least 2 years enrollment before January 2009. Incident epilepsy cases were identified in 2009 using ICD-9-CM code-based algorithms; death was assessed through 2014. Cox regression models examined the association between 5-year mortality and incident epilepsy, and whether mortality differed by sociodemographic characteristics or comorbid disorders. RESULTS Among the 99,990 of 33,615,037 beneficiaries who developed epilepsy, most were White (79.7%), female (57.3%), urban (80.5%), and without Medicaid (71.3%). The 5-year mortality rate for incident epilepsy was 62.8% (62,838 deaths). In multivariable models, lower mortality was associated with female sex (adjusted hazards ratio [AHR] 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84-0.87), Asian race (AHR 0.82, 95% CI 0.76-0.88), and Hispanic ethnicity (AHR 0.81, 95% CI 0.76-0.84). Hazard of death increased with comorbid disease burden (per 1-point increase: AHR 1.27, 95% CI 1.26-1.27) and Medicaid coinsurance (AHR 1.17, 95% CI 1.14-1.19). Incident epilepsy was particularly associated with higher mortality when diagnosed after another neurologic condition: Parkinson disease (AHR 1.29, 95% CI 1.21-1.38), multiple sclerosis (AHR 2.13, 95% CI 1.79-2.59), dementia (AHR 1.33, 95% CI 1.31-1.36), traumatic brain injury (AHR 1.55, 95% CI 1.45-1.66), and stroke/TIA (AHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.18-1.21). CONCLUSIONS Newly diagnosed epilepsy is associated with high 5-year mortality among Medicare beneficiaries. Future studies that parse the interplay of effects from underlying disease, race, sex, and poverty on mortality will be critical in the design of learning health care systems to reduce premature deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah J Blank
- From the Department of Neurology, Division of Health Outcomes and Knowledge Translational Research (L.J.B.), and Department of Population Health Science and Policy (L.J.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (E.K.A., A.W.W.), Department of Neurology Translational Center of Excellence for Neuroepidemiology and Neurological Outcomes Research (E.K.A., A.W.W.), Department of Neurology (A.W.W.), Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (A.W.W.), and Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics (A.W.W.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia.
| | - Emily K Acton
- From the Department of Neurology, Division of Health Outcomes and Knowledge Translational Research (L.J.B.), and Department of Population Health Science and Policy (L.J.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (E.K.A., A.W.W.), Department of Neurology Translational Center of Excellence for Neuroepidemiology and Neurological Outcomes Research (E.K.A., A.W.W.), Department of Neurology (A.W.W.), Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (A.W.W.), and Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics (A.W.W.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
| | - Allison W Willis
- From the Department of Neurology, Division of Health Outcomes and Knowledge Translational Research (L.J.B.), and Department of Population Health Science and Policy (L.J.B.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (E.K.A., A.W.W.), Department of Neurology Translational Center of Excellence for Neuroepidemiology and Neurological Outcomes Research (E.K.A., A.W.W.), Department of Neurology (A.W.W.), Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (A.W.W.), and Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics (A.W.W.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
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Parviainen L, Kälviäinen R, Jutila L. Impact of diagnostic delay on seizure outcome in newly diagnosed focal epilepsy. Epilepsia Open 2020; 5:605-610. [PMID: 33336131 PMCID: PMC7733655 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the current study, we aimed to assess the diagnostic delay and the impact of diagnostic delay on seizure outcome in a cohort of newly diagnosed patients with focal epilepsy. METHODS The study material was compiled from eight clinical antiseizure medication monotherapy trials conducted at Kuopio Epilepsy Center during 1995-2016. We analyzed the time from first seizure to diagnosis, the number of seizures before diagnosis, and the response to treatment at five years. RESULTS Of the 176 patients (age range 15-75 years) in the cohort, 135 (77%) had had more than two seizures before treatment. The majority of these (79 patients, 45%) had had three to ten seizures. Median number of all seizures before diagnosis was 5 (range 2-2000). Focal aware seizures and focal impaired awareness seizures were more frequent than focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures; median number 45 (range 2-2000), 11 (range 2-220), and 3 (range 2-30), respectively (P < .001). Median delay was 12 months (range 0-362). Diagnostic delay alone did not correlate with the treatment response at five years. However, an increasing number of seizures before diagnosis indicated a worse seizure outcome (P < .001). SIGNIFICANCE This study shows that patients with focal epilepsy experience significant delays in diagnosis even in developed countries, especially with seizure types other than tonic-clonic seizures. In these cases, a long delay in diagnosis alone might not affect the long-term outcome. However, when accompanied with recurrent seizures misinterpreted by the patient or healthcare providers, the effect of such delay on prognosis can be considerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Parviainen
- Epilepsy Center, Neuro CenterKuopio University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCAREKuopioFinland
| | - Reetta Kälviäinen
- Epilepsy Center, Neuro CenterKuopio University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCAREKuopioFinland
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Leena Jutila
- Epilepsy Center, Neuro CenterKuopio University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCAREKuopioFinland
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Sun Y, Li Y, Shi Q, Wu C, Sun J, Chen Q, Hu Z, Xiang J, Wang X. Changes of Ictal-Onset Epileptic Network Synchronicity in Childhood Absence Epilepsy: A Magnetoencephalography Study. Front Neurol 2020; 11:583267. [PMID: 33304308 PMCID: PMC7693636 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.583267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To further understand the mechanisms underlying epileptic network and the characteristics of individual specific network, we conducted a study on brain network by magnetoencephalography (MEG) focusing on patients with childhood absence epilepsy (CAE). Methods: The network connectivity of 22 patients was investigated with MEG at the source level. Network connectivity of spikes and slow waves was computed with accumulated source imaging (ASI) and correlation analysis. Time-frequency analysis was used to characterize the network changes during the ictal-onset period of each patient and the potential factors. Results: We found that spectral power increased at around 1 s and distributed at 2-4 Hz in all patients. Ictal spikes simultaneously showed elevation of network connectivity, predominantly excitatory connections, when generalized firing activity spread to the overall brain. High-frequency oscillations (HFOs) were prone to detect overexcited neuronal firing in certain focal areas. Conclusions: Personal network changes during ictal onset had unique features in the time range and parallel seizure rhythm uniformly in every patient. There was an important time point for generalized discharges of the epileptic network. Ictal spiking activity played an important role in the epileptic network synchronicity of childhood absence epilepsy. Frequency oscillations provided references for locating abnormal changes in neuromagnetic signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulei Sun
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yihan Li
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Shi
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Caiyun Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jintao Sun
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiqi Chen
- MEG Center, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zheng Hu
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing Children's Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Xiang
- Division of Neurology, MEG Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Xiaoshan Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Sharma S, Anand A, Garg D, Batra S, Mukherjee SB, Patra B, Aneja S. Use of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) 1989, 2010, and 2017 Classification of Epilepsy in children in a low-resource setting: A hospital-based cross-sectional study. Epilepsia Open 2020; 5:397-405. [PMID: 32913948 PMCID: PMC7469804 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This cross-sectional study was designed to test the applicability of the 1989, 2010, and 2017 International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification of epilepsy in children from a resource-limited setting in India. METHODS Classification of seizure types and syndromes was done through parental interviews and review of medical records in children with epilepsy aged one month to 18 years. Available investigations including EEG, MRI, and metabolic/genetic tests were used in classifying patients as per the 1989, 2010, and 2017 ILAE (level II-epilepsy type) classification. We compared the proportion of children remaining unclassified by each scheme. RESULTS Seven hundred and twenty-six children (436 males, mean age 6.4 ± 4.6 years) were enrolled. Using the 1989 ILAE classification, we were able to classify 95.7%, and 82.6% children by the 2010 scheme. The 2017 ILAE classification could classify all 726 children at level I (seizure type), 664 (91.0%) children at level II (epilepsy type), and an electroclinical syndrome could be identified in 409 (56.1%) of the children. An etiology could be identified in 75%, perinatal brain injury being the most frequent. West syndrome was the most common electroclinical syndrome, identified in 22.7% patients. The 1989 ILAE classification system was superior to the 2010 system (P = .01) in epilepsy classification. There was no difference between the 1989 and 2017 schemes (P = .31) or the 2010 and 2017 schemes (P = .10). SIGNIFICANCE The 2017 ILAE classification, being multidimensional, allowed classification of children who could not undergo extensive evaluation due to economic constraints and also provided room for overlapping etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvasini Sharma
- Department of PediatricsLady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children’s HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | - Aakanksha Anand
- Department of PediatricsLady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children’s HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | - Divyani Garg
- Department of NeurologyLady Hardinge Medical College and associated Smt. Sucheta Kriplani HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | - Sakshi Batra
- Department of PediatricsLady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children’s HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | - Sharmila B. Mukherjee
- Department of PediatricsLady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children’s HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | - Bijoy Patra
- Department of PediatricsLady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children’s HospitalNew DelhiIndia
| | - Satinder Aneja
- Department of PediatricsLady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children’s HospitalNew DelhiIndia
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Buckley CT, Waters OR, DeMaagd G. Cenobamate: A New Adjunctive Agent for Drug-Resistant Focal Onset Epilepsy. Ann Pharmacother 2020; 55:318-329. [PMID: 32623899 DOI: 10.1177/1060028020941113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of oral cenobamate in the treatment of uncontrolled focal epilepsy. DATA SOURCES The PubMed database and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched using the following terms: cenobamate, Xcopri, and YKP3089. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION Articles published in English between January 2000 and April 2020 related to pharmacology, safety, and clinical trials were assessed. DATA SYNTHESIS In a phase 2 trial, cenobamate reduced the median percentage change in seizure frequency from baseline by 56% compared with 22% for placebo (P < 0.0001). In another phase 2 trial of multiple cenobamate doses, cenobamate reduced seizure frequency by 36% (P = 0.0071) in the 100-mg group and 55% (P < 0.0001) in both the 200- and 400-mg groups, compared to 24% with placebo. Adverse effects of cenobamate appear to be similar to those of other antiseizure medications and primarily affect the neurological system. RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE In patients taking antiseizure medications who continue to have focal seizures, cenobamate has efficacy at multiple doses and is generally well tolerated. Cenobamate may be distinguished from other antiseizure medications by high rates of seizure freedom not seen in previous placebo-controlled trials, which has the potential to significantly improve quality of life. However, despite this efficacy, Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms may remain a significant concern with cenobamate. CONCLUSION As seen in clinical trials, cenobamate as an adjunctive, once-daily treatment represents an efficacious and generally well-tolerated therapy for patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy.
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Fujiwara H, Tenney J, Kadis DS, Altaye M, Spencer C, Vannest J. Cortical and subcortical volume differences between Benign Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes and Childhood Absence Epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2020; 166:106407. [PMID: 32634725 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Benign Childhood Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes (BECTS) and Childhood Absence Epilepsy (CAE) are the most common childhood epilepsy syndromes and they share a similar age-dependence. However, the two syndromes clearly differ in seizures and EEG patterns. The aim of this study is to investigate whether children of the same age with BECTS, CAE and typically-developing children have significant differences in grey matter volume that may underlie the different profiles of these syndromes. METHODS Twenty one patients with newly-diagnosed BECTS and 18 newly diagnosed and drug naïve CAE were included and compared to 31 typically-developing children. Voxel-based morphometry was utilized to investigate grey matter volume differences among BECTS, CAE, and controls. We also examined the effect of age on grey matter volume in all three groups. In addition to the whole brain analysis, we chose regions of interest analysis based on previous literature suggesting the involvement of these regions in BECTS or CAE. The group differences of grey matter volume was tested with 2-sample t-test for between two groups' comparisons and ANOVA for three group comparisons. RESULTS In the whole brain group comparisons, the grey matter volume in CAE was significantly decreased in the areas of right inferior frontal and anterior temporal compared to BECTS and controls (F2,67 = 27.53, p < 0.001). In the control group, grey matter volume in bifrontal lobes showed a negative correlation with age (r=-0.54, p < 0.05), whereas no correlation was found in either CAE or BECTS. With ROI analyses, the grey matter volume of posterior thalami was increased in CAE compared to other 2 groups (p < 0.05). SIGNIFICANCE This study shows that there are grey matter volume differences between CAE and BECTS. Our findings of grey matter volume differences may suggest that there may be localized, specific differences in brain structure between these two types of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisako Fujiwara
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; Pediatric Neuroimaging Research Consortium, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| | - Jeffrey Tenney
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; Pediatric Neuroimaging Research Consortium, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| | - Darren S Kadis
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; Pediatric Neuroimaging Research Consortium, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| | - Mekibib Altaye
- Pediatric Neuroimaging Research Consortium, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
| | - Caroline Spencer
- University of Cincinnati, Communications Sciences and Disorders Program of the College of Allied Health Service, 3225 Eden Avenue P.O. Box 670379, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
| | - Jennifer Vannest
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; Pediatric Neuroimaging Research Consortium, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave. Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
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Sharma S, Chen Z, Rychkova M, Dunne J, Lee J, Kalilani L, Lawn N, Kwan P. Treatment initiation decisions in newly diagnosed epilepsy–A longitudinal cohort study. Epilepsia 2020; 61:445-454. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.16439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Sharma
- Department of Neurosciences Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Zhibin Chen
- Department of Neurosciences Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine Royal Melbourne Hospital The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Maria Rychkova
- Department of Medicine Royal Melbourne Hospital The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - John Dunne
- School of Medicine Royal Perth Hospital Unit University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
- WA Adult Epilepsy Service Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Judy Lee
- WA Adult Epilepsy Service Perth Western Australia Australia
| | | | - Nicholas Lawn
- WA Adult Epilepsy Service Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Patrick Kwan
- Department of Neurosciences Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine Royal Melbourne Hospital The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
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Ogaki A, Ikegaya Y, Koyama R. Vascular Abnormalities and the Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in the Epileptic Brain. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:20. [PMID: 32116699 PMCID: PMC7010950 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder generally defined to be caused by excessive neuronal activity. Thus, excessive neuronal activity is the main target of the currently used antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). However, as many as 30% of epileptic patients show drug resistance to currently available AEDs, which suggests that epilepsy should be attributed not only to neuronal cells but also to other brain cells, such as glial cells and vascular cells. Astrocytes, pericytes, and endothelial cells in particular comprise the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which tightly regulates the exchange of substances between the brain parenchyma and the circulating blood. It has been proposed that BBB dysfunction, especially barrier leakage, exacerbates epileptic progression, and conversely, that epileptic seizures induce barrier leakage. Furthermore, several studies have shown that BBB dysfunction is one of the main causes of drug resistance in epilepsy. To better understand the mechanisms that link BBB dysfunction and intractable epilepsy to gain insights for the future development of treatments, we review and discuss the relationships between epilepsy and brain vascular abnormalities, mainly by focusing on vascular malformation, BBB dysfunction, and excessive angiogenesis. Because these abnormalities have been reported to be caused by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the ischemic brain, we discuss the possible role of VEGF in vascular abnormalities in the epileptic brain, in which the upregulation of VEGF levels has been reported. Both glial cells and endothelial cells express VEGF receptors (VEGFRs); thus, these cells are likely affected by increases in VEGF during seizures, which in turn could cause vascular abnormalities. In this review, we review the possible role of VEGF in epilepsy and discuss the mechanisms that link vascular abnormalities and intractable epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Ogaki
- Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Ikegaya
- Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan.,Center for Information and Neural Networks, National Institute of Information and Communications and Technology, Suita City, Japan
| | - Ryuta Koyama
- Laboratory of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan
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Spike-and-Wave Discharges Are Not Pathological Sleep Spindles, Network-Level Aspects of Age-Dependent Absence Seizure Development in Rats. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0253-19.2019. [PMID: 31862790 PMCID: PMC6944477 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0253-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) of absence epilepsy are considered as pathologic alterations of sleep spindles; however, their network-level relationship has never been convincingly revealed. In order to observe the development and generalization of the thalamocortical SWDs and the concomitant alterations of sleep related oscillations, we performed local field potential (LFP) and single unit recordings in rats for three months during their maturation. We found that while SWDs and spindles look similar in young, they become different with maturation and shift to appear in different brain states. Thus, despite being generated by the same network, they are likely two distinct manifestations of the thalamocortical activity. We show that while spindles are already mainly global oscillations, SWDs appear mainly only focally in young. They become capable to generalize later with maturation, when the out-of-focus brain regions develop a decreased inhibitory/excitatory balance. These results suggest that a hyperexcitable focus is not sufficient alone to drive generalized absence seizures. Importantly, we also found the gradual age dependent disappearance of sleep spindles coinciding with the simultaneous gradual emergence of spike and waves, which both could be reversed by the proper dosing of ethosuximide (ETX). Based on these observations we conclude that the absence seizure development might be a multi-step process, which might involve the functional impairment of cortical interneurons and network-level changes that negatively affect sleep quality.
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Maschio M, Aguglia U, Avanzini G, Banfi P, Buttinelli C, Capovilla G, Casazza MML, Colicchio G, Coppola A, Costa C, Dainese F, Daniele O, De Simone R, Eoli M, Gasparini S, Giallonardo AT, La Neve A, Maialetti A, Mecarelli O, Melis M, Michelucci R, Paladin F, Pauletto G, Piccioli M, Quadri S, Ranzato F, Rossi R, Salmaggi A, Terenzi R, Tisei P, Villani F, Vitali P, Vivalda LC, Zaccara G, Zarabla A, Beghi E. Management of epilepsy in brain tumors. Neurol Sci 2019; 40:2217-2234. [PMID: 31392641 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-019-04025-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy in brain tumors (BTE) may require medical attention for a variety of unique concerns: epileptic seizures, possible serious adverse effects of antineoplastic and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), physical disability, and/or neurocognitive disturbances correlated to tumor site. Guidelines for the management of tumor-related epilepsies are lacking. Treatment is not standardized, and overall management might differ according to different specialists. The aim of this document was to provide directives on the procedures to be adopted for a correct diagnostic-therapeutic path of the patient with BTE, evaluating indications, risks, and benefits. A board comprising neurologists, epileptologists, neurophysiologists, neuroradiologists, neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, neuropsychologists, and patients' representatives was formed. The board converted diagnostic and therapeutic problems into seventeen questions. A literature search was performed in September-October 2017, and a total of 7827 unique records were retrieved, of which 148 constituted the core literature. There is no evidence that histological type or localization of the brain tumor affects the response to an AED. The board recommended to avoid enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs because of their interference with antitumoral drugs and consider as first-choice newer generation drugs (among them, levetiracetam, lamotrigine, and topiramate). Valproic acid should also be considered. Both short-term and long-term prophylaxes are not recommended in primary and metastatic brain tumors. Management of seizures in patients with BTE should be multidisciplinary. The panel evidenced conflicting or lacking data regarding the role of EEG, the choice of therapeutic strategy, and timing to withdraw AEDs and recommended high-quality long-term studies to standardize BTE care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Maschio
- Center for Brain Tumor-Related Epilepsy, UOSD Neuro-Oncology, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Umberto Aguglia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuliano Avanzini
- Department of Neurophysiology and Experimental Epileptology, Carlo Besta Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Banfi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Emergency, Medicine Epilepsy Center, Circolo Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Carla Buttinelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Capovilla
- Department of Mental Health, Epilepsy Center, C. Poma Hospital, Mantua, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Colicchio
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Coppola
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Epilepsy Centre, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Cinzia Costa
- Neurological Clinic, Department of Medicine, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Filippo Dainese
- Epilepsy Centre, UOC Neurology, SS. Giovanni e Paolo Hospital, Venice, Italy
| | - Ornella Daniele
- Epilepsy Center-U.O.C. Neurology, Policlinico Paolo Giaccone, Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience Department (BioNeC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Roberto De Simone
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, Epilepsy and Sleep Disorders Center, St. Eugenio Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Marica Eoli
- Molecular Neuro-Oncology Unit, IRCCS-Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Gasparini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Angela La Neve
- Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, Centre for Epilepsy, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Maialetti
- Center for Brain Tumor-Related Epilepsy, UOSD Neuro-Oncology, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Oriano Mecarelli
- Neurology Unit, Human Neurosciences Department, Sapienza University, Umberto 1 Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Melis
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Institute of Neurology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Michelucci
- Unit of Neurology, Bellaria Hospital, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Paladin
- Epilepsy Center, UOC Neurology, Ospedale Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Venice, Italy
| | - Giada Pauletto
- Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria della Misericordia University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Marta Piccioli
- UOC Neurology, PO San Filippo Neri, ASL Roma 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Quadri
- USC Neurology, Epilepsy Center, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Federica Ranzato
- Epilepsy Centre, Neuroscience Department, S. Bortolo Hospital, Vicenza, Italy
| | - Rosario Rossi
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, San Francesco Hospital, 08100, Nuoro, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Terenzi
- Epilepsy Consultation Room, Neurology Unit, S. Pietro Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Tisei
- Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Neurology-University "La Sapienza", S. Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavio Villani
- Clinical Epileptology and Experimental Neurophysiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vitali
- Neuroradiology and Brain MRI 3T Mondino Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano Zaccara
- Regional Health Agency of Tuscany, Via P Dazzi 1, 50141, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessia Zarabla
- Center for Brain Tumor-Related Epilepsy, UOSD Neuro-Oncology, I.R.C.C.S. Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Ettore Beghi
- Department of Neurosciences, IRCCS Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
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Feng YCA, Howrigan DP, Abbott LE, Tashman K, Cerrato F, Singh T, Heyne H, Byrnes A, Churchhouse C, Watts N, Solomonson M, Lal D, Heinzen EL, Dhindsa RS, Stanley KE, Cavalleri GL, Hakonarson H, Helbig I, Krause R, May P, Weckhuysen S, Petrovski S, Kamalakaran S, Sisodiya SM, Cossette P, Cotsapas C, De Jonghe P, Dixon-Salazar T, Guerrini R, Kwan P, Marson AG, Stewart R, Depondt C, Dlugos DJ, Scheffer IE, Striano P, Freyer C, McKenna K, Regan BM, Bellows ST, Leu C, Bennett CA, Johns EM, Macdonald A, Shilling H, Burgess R, Weckhuysen D, Bahlo M, O’Brien TJ, Todaro M, Stamberger H, Andrade DM, Sadoway TR, Mo K, Krestel H, Gallati S, Papacostas SS, Kousiappa I, Tanteles GA, Štěrbová K, Vlčková M, Sedláčková L, Laššuthová P, Klein KM, Rosenow F, Reif PS, Knake S, Kunz WS, Zsurka G, Elger CE, Bauer J, Rademacher M, Pendziwiat M, Muhle H, Rademacher A, van Baalen A, von Spiczak S, Stephani U, Afawi Z, Korczyn AD, Kanaan M, Canavati C, Kurlemann G, Müller-Schlüter K, Kluger G, Häusler M, Blatt I, Lemke JR, Krey I, Weber YG, Wolking S, Becker F, Hengsbach C, Rau S, Maisch AF, Steinhoff BJ, Schulze-Bonhage A, Schubert-Bast S, Schreiber H, Borggräfe I, Schankin CJ, Mayer T, Korinthenberg R, Brockmann K, Kurlemann G, Dennig D, Madeleyn R, Kälviäinen R, Auvinen P, Saarela A, Linnankivi T, Lehesjoki AE, Rees MI, Chung SK, Pickrell WO, Powell R, Schneider N, Balestrini S, Zagaglia S, Braatz V, Johnson MR, Auce P, Sills GJ, Baum LW, Sham PC, Cherny SS, Lui CH, Barišić N, Delanty N, Doherty CP, Shukralla A, McCormack M, El-Naggar H, Canafoglia L, Franceschetti S, Castellotti B, Granata T, Zara F, Iacomino M, Madia F, Vari MS, Mancardi MM, Salpietro V, Bisulli F, Tinuper P, Licchetta L, Pippucci T, Stipa C, Minardi R, Gambardella A, Labate A, Annesi G, Manna L, Gagliardi M, Parrini E, Mei D, Vetro A, Bianchini C, Montomoli M, Doccini V, Marini C, Suzuki T, Inoue Y, Yamakawa K, Tumiene B, Sadleir LG, King C, Mountier E, Caglayan SH, Arslan M, Yapıcı Z, Yis U, Topaloglu P, Kara B, Turkdogan D, Gundogdu-Eken A, Bebek N, Uğur-İşeri S, Baykan B, Salman B, Haryanyan G, Yücesan E, Kesim Y, Özkara Ç, Poduri A, Shiedley BR, Shain C, Buono RJ, Ferraro TN, Sperling MR, Lo W, Privitera M, French JA, Schachter S, Kuzniecky RI, Devinsky O, Hegde M, Khankhanian P, Helbig KL, Ellis CA, Spalletta G, Piras F, Piras F, Gili T, Ciullo V, Reif A, McQuillin A, Bass N, McIntosh A, Blackwood D, Johnstone M, Palotie A, Pato MT, Pato CN, Bromet EJ, Carvalho CB, Achtyes ED, Azevedo MH, Kotov R, Lehrer DS, Malaspina D, Marder SR, Medeiros H, Morley CP, Perkins DO, Sobell JL, Buckley PF, Macciardi F, Rapaport MH, Knowles JA, Fanous AH, McCarroll SA, Gupta N, Gabriel SB, Daly MJ, Lander ES, Lowenstein DH, Goldstein DB, Lerche H, Berkovic SF, Neale BM. Ultra-Rare Genetic Variation in the Epilepsies: A Whole-Exome Sequencing Study of 17,606 Individuals. Am J Hum Genet 2019; 105:267-282. [PMID: 31327507 PMCID: PMC6698801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2019.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sequencing-based studies have identified novel risk genes associated with severe epilepsies and revealed an excess of rare deleterious variation in less-severe forms of epilepsy. To identify the shared and distinct ultra-rare genetic risk factors for different types of epilepsies, we performed a whole-exome sequencing (WES) analysis of 9,170 epilepsy-affected individuals and 8,436 controls of European ancestry. We focused on three phenotypic groups: severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs), genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE), and non-acquired focal epilepsy (NAFE). We observed that compared to controls, individuals with any type of epilepsy carried an excess of ultra-rare, deleterious variants in constrained genes and in genes previously associated with epilepsy; we saw the strongest enrichment in individuals with DEEs and the least strong in individuals with NAFE. Moreover, we found that inhibitory GABAA receptor genes were enriched for missense variants across all three classes of epilepsy, whereas no enrichment was seen in excitatory receptor genes. The larger gene groups for the GABAergic pathway or cation channels also showed a significant mutational burden in DEEs and GGE. Although no single gene surpassed exome-wide significance among individuals with GGE or NAFE, highly constrained genes and genes encoding ion channels were among the lead associations; such genes included CACNA1G, EEF1A2, and GABRG2 for GGE and LGI1, TRIM3, and GABRG2 for NAFE. Our study, the largest epilepsy WES study to date, confirms a convergence in the genetics of severe and less-severe epilepsies associated with ultra-rare coding variation, and it highlights a ubiquitous role for GABAergic inhibition in epilepsy etiology.
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Lee EJ, Kalia SK, Hong SH. A Primer on Magnetic Resonance-Guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy for Medically Refractory Epilepsy. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2019; 62:353-360. [PMID: 31085962 PMCID: PMC6514321 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2019.0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy surgery that eliminates the epileptogenic focus or disconnects the epileptic network has the potential to significantly improve seizure control in patients with medically intractable epilepsy. Magnetic resonance-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) has been an established option for epilepsy surgery since the US Food and Drug Administration cleared the use of MRgLITT in neurosurgery in 2007. MRgLITT is an ablative stereotactic procedure utilizing heat that is converted from laser energy, and the temperature of the tissue is monitored in real-time by MR thermography. Real-time quantitative thermal monitoring enables titration of laser energy for cellular injury, and it also estimates the extent of tissue damage. MRgLITT is applicable for lesion ablation in cases that the epileptogenic foci are localized and/or deep-seated such as in the mesial temporal lobe epilepsy and hypothalamic hamartoma. Seizure-free outcomes after MRgLITT are comparable to those of open surgery in well-selected patients such as those with mesial temporal sclerosis. Particularly in patients with hypothalamic hamartoma. In addition, MRgLITT can also be applied to ablate multiple discrete lesions of focal cortical dysplasia and tuberous sclerosis complex without the need for multiple craniotomies, as well as disconnection surgery such as corpus callosotomy. Careful planning of the target, the optimal trajectory of the laser probe, and the appropriate parameters for energy delivery are paramount to improve the seizure outcome and to reduce the complication caused by the thermal damage to the surrounding critical structures.
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Dahl‐Hansen E, Koht J, Syvertsen M. Epilepsy at different ages-Etiologies in a Norwegian population. Epilepsia Open 2019; 4:176-181. [PMID: 30868128 PMCID: PMC6398108 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The causes of epilepsy are age related, but confirmative data from population-based studies are scarce. Our aim was to describe the typical causes of epilepsy in the different age groups of a defined population. The study was cross-sectional, based on a review of all medical files containing a diagnostic code for epilepsy at Drammen Hospital from 1999-2013. Drammen Hospital serves the population of Buskerud County, with 272 228 residents (as of January 1, 2014), including 1771 people with active epilepsy. This group of persons with active epilepsy was divided into different age groups with the causes of epilepsy mapped in each group. The proportion with unknown etiology ranged from 27% (age 5-9) to 41% (age 10-19). Structural-metabolic epilepsy and perinatal insults were the leading causes of epilepsy in the age group 5-9 (46%), whereas disturbances of brain development dominated in the youngest (23% in patients ≤4 years old). In the group comprising persons with epilepsy ≥60 years old, stroke was the most common cause of epilepsy (44%). Despite recent advances in research and technology, a large number of patients in all age groups (including the youngest) still have an unknown cause of epilepsy. We conclude that an effort must be made to improve the diagnostics for and understanding of the causes of epilepsy across all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline Dahl‐Hansen
- Department of NeurologyDrammen HospitalVestre Viken Hospital TrustDrammenNorway
| | - Jeanette Koht
- Department of NeurologyDrammen HospitalVestre Viken Hospital TrustDrammenNorway
- Institute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of OsloOsloNorway
| | - Marte Syvertsen
- Department of NeurologyDrammen HospitalVestre Viken Hospital TrustDrammenNorway
- Institute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of OsloOsloNorway
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Sartori S, Nosadini M, Tessarin G, Boniver C, Frigo AC, Toldo I, Bressan S, Da Dalt L. First-ever convulsive seizures in children presenting to the emergency department: risk factors for seizure recurrence and diagnosis of epilepsy. Dev Med Child Neurol 2019; 61:82-90. [PMID: 30191957 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM Aetiologies of first-ever convulsive seizures may be diverse, not all leading to recurrence or epilepsy diagnosis. We aimed to describe the epidemiology of first-ever convulsive seizures in children, investigating risk factors for recurrence and epilepsy diagnosis. METHOD This was a retrospective study of children presenting with a first-ever convulsive seizure to a tertiary-care paediatric emergency department (PED) in Italy, in a 12-month period (2011-2012). RESULTS One hundred and eight children (57 males, 51 females) presented to the PED for a first-ever convulsive seizure; 90.7% were 6 months to 6 years old (median age 1y 10mo, mean 2y 7mo, range 0mo-14y 4mo). Seizure duration was less than 5 minutes in 76.8%. Seizures were 'unprovoked' in 19.4% and 'provoked' in 80.6%. At 4-year follow-up, 37.9% of patients experienced recurrence and 13.6% received a diagnosis of epilepsy. Factors significantly associated with recurrence were the 'unprovoked' nature of the first seizure, multiple seizures in the first 24 hours, positive family history of febrile seizures or epilepsy, and pre-existing neurological conditions/problems. Factors significantly associated with a diagnosis of epilepsy were the 'unprovoked' nature of the first seizure, age older than 6 years, pre-existing neurological conditions/problems, and focal onset of first seizure. INTERPRETATION Children presenting to the PED with first-ever convulsive seizures represent a heterogeneous group. The identification of prognostic factors for recurrence and epilepsy diagnosis may help provide tailored counselling and follow-up. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Seizures were 'unprovoked' in 19.4% and 'provoked' in 80.6% of children presenting to the emergency department. At 4-year follow-up, 37.9% relapsed, and 13.6% received a diagnosis of epilepsy. 'Unprovoked' first seizure, family history of febrile seizures, and pre-existing neurological conditions were associated with recurrence. 'Unprovoked' first seizure, age younger than 6 years, and pre-existing neurological conditions were associated with epilepsy diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Sartori
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Margherita Nosadini
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giulio Tessarin
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Clementina Boniver
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Anna Chiara Frigo
- Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Irene Toldo
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Silvia Bressan
- Emergency Department, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Liviana Da Dalt
- Emergency Department, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Syvertsen M, Selmer K, Enger U, Nakken KO, Pal DK, Smith A, Koht J. Psychosocial complications in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 90:122-128. [PMID: 30530133 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) constitutes about 10% of all epilepsies. Because of executive dysfunction, people with JME may be prone to impulsivity and risk-taking behavior. Our aim was to investigate whether psychosocial issues associated with impulsivity are more prominent in people with JME than in those with other types of genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE). Patients with GGE were recruited retrospectively through the Drammen Hospital records in Buskerud County, Norway, 1999-2013. They were invited to a semi-structured interview, either at the hospital or at home. Ninety-two patients with JME and 45 with other types of GGE were interviewed. Variables were evaluated in terms of their association with JME versus other GGE diagnosis using a logistic regression model. Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy was associated with use of illicit recreational drugs and police charges, although with borderline significance (odds ratio [OR] 3.4, p = 0.087 and OR 4.2, p = 0.095); JME was also associated with being examined for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in females (OR 15.5, p = 0.015), a biological parent with challenges like addiction or violent behavior (OR 3.5, p = 0.032), and use of levetiracetam (OR 5.1, p = 0.014). After controlling for group differences, we found psychosocial complications to be associated with JME, potentially influencing the lives of the individuals and their families to a greater extent than the seizures per se. Thus, JME should be considered a disorder of the brain in a broader sense than a condition with seizures only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marte Syvertsen
- Department of Neurology, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Kaja Selmer
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; National Center for Epilepsy, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ulla Enger
- Department of Neurology, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Karl O Nakken
- National Center for Epilepsy, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Deb K Pal
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Smith
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jeanette Koht
- Department of Neurology, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Li M, Yue W. VRK2, a Candidate Gene for Psychiatric and Neurological Disorders. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2018; 4:119-133. [PMID: 30643786 PMCID: PMC6323383 DOI: 10.1159/000493941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent large-scale genetic approaches, such as genome-wide association studies, have identified multiple genetic variations that contribute to the risk of mental illnesses, among which single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within or near the vaccinia related kinase 2 (VRK2) gene have gained consistent support for their correlations with multiple psychiatric and neurological disorders including schizophrenia (SCZ), major depressive disorder (MDD), and genetic generalized epilepsy. For instance, the genetic variant rs1518395 in VRK2 showed genome-wide significant associations with SCZ (35,476 cases and 46,839 controls, p = 3.43 × 10-8) and MDD (130,620 cases and 347,620 controls, p = 4.32 × 10-12) in European populations. This SNP was also genome-wide significantly associated with SCZ in Han Chinese population (12,083 cases and 24,097 controls, p = 3.78 × 10-13), and all associations were in the same direction of allelic effects. These studies highlight the potential roles of VRK2 in the central nervous system, and this gene therefore might be a good candidate to investigate the shared genetic and molecular basis between SCZ and MDD, as it is one of the few genes known to show genome-wide significant associations with both illnesses. Furthermore, the VRK2 gene was found to be involved in multiple other congenital deficits related to the malfunction of neurodevelopment, adding further support for the involvement of this gene in the pathogenesis of these neurological and psychiatric illnesses. While the precise function of VRK2 in these conditions remains unclear, preliminary evidence suggests that it may affect neuronal proliferation and migration via interacting with multiple essential signaling pathways involving other susceptibility genes/proteins for psychiatric disorders. Here, we have reviewed the recent progress of genetic and molecular studies of VRK2, with an emphasis on its role in psychiatric illnesses and neurological functions. We believe that attention to this important gene is necessary, and further investigations of VRK2 may provide hints into the underlying mechanisms of SCZ and MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Weihua Yue
- Peking University Sixth Hospital/Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health (Peking University) and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
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Santos VR, Kobayashi I, Hammack R, Danko G, Forcelli PA. Impact of strain, sex, and estrous cycle on gamma butyrolactone-evoked absence seizures in rats. Epilepsy Res 2018; 147:62-70. [PMID: 30261353 PMCID: PMC6226012 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) is the most common pediatric epilepsy syndrome and is characterized by typical absence seizures (AS). AS are non-convulsive epileptic seizures characterized by a sudden loss of awareness and bilaterally generalized synchronous 2.5-4 Hz spike and slow-wave discharges (SWD). Gamma butyrolactone (GBL) is an acute pharmacological model of AS and induces bilaterally synchronous SWDs and behavioral arrest. Despite the long use of this model, little is known about its strain and sex-dependent features. We compared the dose-response profile of GBL-evoked SWDs in three rat strains (Long Evans, Sprague-Dawley, and Wistar), and examined the modulatory effects of estrous cycle on SWDs in female Wistar rats. We evaluated the number of seizures, the cumulative time seizing, and the average seizure duration as a function of dose, strain, and sex/estrous phase. Long Evans rats displayed the greatest sensitivity to GBL, followed by Wistar rats, and then by Sprague-Dawley rats. GBL-evoked SWDs were modulated by estrous cycle in female rats, with the lowest sensitivity to GBL occurring during metestrus. Wistar rats showed the greatest variability as a function of dose, and the least variability within dose; these features make this strain desirable for interventional studies. Moreover, our finding that the SWD response to GBL differs as a function of estrous cycle underscores the importance of cycle monitoring in studies examining female animals using this model. Together, these strain and sex-dependent findings provide guidance for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor R Santos
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Ihori Kobayashi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Howard University College of Medicine, United States
| | - Robert Hammack
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Gregory Danko
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Patrick A Forcelli
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University School of Medicine, United States; Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University School of Medicine, United States.
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Ictal Source Locations and Cortico-Thalamic Connectivity in Childhood Absence Epilepsy: Associations with Treatment Response. Brain Topogr 2018; 32:178-191. [PMID: 30291582 DOI: 10.1007/s10548-018-0680-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Childhood absence epilepsy (CAE), the most common pediatric epilepsy syndrome, is usually treated with valproic acid (VPA) and lamotrigine (LTG) in China. This study aimed to investigate the ictal source locations and functional connectivity (FC) networks between the cortices and thalamus that are related to treatment response. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) data from 25 patients with CAE were recorded at 300 Hz and analyzed in 1-30 Hz frequency bands. Neuromagnetic sources were volumetrically scanned with accumulated source imaging. The FC networks between the cortices and thalamus were evaluated at the source level through a connectivity analysis. Treatment outcome was assessed after 36-66 months following MEG recording. The children with CAE were divided into LTG responder, LTG non-responder, VPA responder and VPA non-responder groups. The ictal source locations and cortico-thalamic FC networks were compared to the treatment response. The ictal source locations in the post-dorsal medial frontal cortex (post-DMFC, including the medial primary motor cortex and the supplementary sensorimotor area) were observed in all LTG non-responders but in all LTG responders. At 1-7 Hz, patients with fronto-thalamo-parietal/occipital (F-T-P/O) networks were older than those with fronto-thalamic (F-T) networks or other cortico-thalamic networks (p = 0.000). The duration of seizures in patients with F-T-P/O networks at 1-7 Hz was longer than that in patients with F-T networks or other cortico-thalamic networks (p = 0.001). The ictal post-DMFC source localizations suggest that children with CAE might experience initial LTG monotherapy failure. Moreover, the cortico-thalamo-cortical network is associated with age. Finally, the cortico-thalamo-cortical network consists of anterior and posterior cortices and might contribute to the maintenance of discharges.
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Strzelczyk A, Kay L, Bauer S, Immisch I, Klein KM, Knake S, Kowski A, Kunz R, Kurlemann G, Langenbruch L, Möddel G, Müller-Schlüter K, Reif PS, Schubert-Bast S, Steinhoff BJ, Steinig I, Willems LM, von Podewils F, Rosenow F. Use of brivaracetam in genetic generalized epilepsies and for acute, intravenous treatment of absence status epilepticus. Epilepsia 2018; 59:1549-1556. [PMID: 29943451 DOI: 10.1111/epi.14476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate effectiveness, retention, and tolerability of brivaracetam (BRV) in genetic generalized epilepsies (GGE) in clinical practice. METHODS A multicenter, retrospective cohort study recruiting all patients that started BRV in 2016 and 2017. RESULTS A total of 61 patients (mean age = 29.8, range = 9-90 years, 41 female [67%]) were treated with BRV. They were difficult to control, with 2.4 failed antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in the past, taking 1.9 AEDs on average at baseline. The length of exposure to BRV ranged from 7 days to 24 months, with a mean retention time of 7.9 months, resulting in a total exposure time to BRV of 483 months. The retention rate was 82% at 3 months and 69% at 6 months. Efficacy at 3 months was 36% (50% responder rate), with 25% seizure-free for 3 months. Patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy showed a responder rate of 60%, with 40% being free of any seizures. Long-term 50% responder rate was present in 17 patients (28%; 11 seizure-free [18%]) for >6 months and in 14 patients (23%; 10 seizure-free [16%]) for >12 months. Treatment-emergent adverse events were observed in 26% of the patients, with the most common being somnolence, ataxia, and psychobehavioral adverse events. Use of intravenous BRV with bolus injection of 200-300 mg in two females with absence status epilepticus was well tolerated, but did not result in cessation of status epilepticus. SIGNIFICANCE Use of BRV in GGE is well tolerated, and 50% responder rates are similar to those observed in the regulatory trials for focal epilepsies. An immediate switch from levetiracetam (LEV) to BRV at a ratio of 15:1 is feasible. The occurrence of psychobehavioral adverse events seems less prominent than under LEV, and a switch to BRV can be considered in patients with LEV-induced adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lara Kay
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ilka Immisch
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Karl Martin Klein
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Susanne Knake
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Kowski
- Department of Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rhina Kunz
- Epilepsy Center Greifswald and Department of Neurology, Ernst Moritz Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Gerhard Kurlemann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Westfälische Wilhelms University, Münster, Germany
| | - Lisa Langenbruch
- Epilepsy Center Münster-Osnabrück, Department of Neurology, Westfälische Wilhelms University, Münster, Germany
| | - Gabriel Möddel
- Epilepsy Center Münster-Osnabrück, Department of Neurology, Westfälische Wilhelms University, Münster, Germany
| | - Karen Müller-Schlüter
- Epilepsy Center for Children, University Hospital Neuruppin, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Philipp S Reif
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | | | - Isabel Steinig
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Laurent M Willems
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felix von Podewils
- Epilepsy Center Greifswald and Department of Neurology, Ernst Moritz Arndt University, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
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48
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Grabowski DC, Fishman J, Wild I, Lavin B. Changing the neurology policy landscape in the United States: Misconceptions and facts about epilepsy. Health Policy 2018; 122:797-802. [PMID: 29908672 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy has a relatively high prevalence, and diagnosis and treatment are often challenging. Seizure freedom without significant side effects is the ultimate goal for both physicians and patients, but not always achievable. In those cases, the treatment goals of patients and providers may differ. In the United States, many clinicians continue to prescribe older AEDs, even though newer AEDs have a more desirable safety and tolerability profile, fewer drug-drug interactions, and are associated with lower epilepsy-related hospital visits. Newer AEDs are more commonly prescribed by neurologists and epilepsy center physicians, highlighting the importance of access to specialty care. We report that antiepileptic drugs are not the dominant cost driver for patients with epilepsy and costs are considerably higher in patients with uncontrolled epilepsy. Poor drug adherence is considered a main cause of unsuccessful epilepsy treatment and is associated with increases in inpatient and emergency department admissions and related costs. Interventions and educational programs are needed to address the reasons for nonadherence. Coverage policies placing a higher cost burden on patients with epilepsy lead to lower treatment adherence, which can result in higher future health care spending. Epilepsy is lagging behind other neurological conditions in terms of funding and treatment innovation. Increased investment in epilepsy research may be particularly beneficial given current funding levels and the high prevalence of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Grabowski
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, 180 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115-5899, USA.
| | - Jesse Fishman
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Drive SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
| | - Imane Wild
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Drive SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
| | - Bruce Lavin
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Drive SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
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49
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Abstract
Epilepsy affects all age groups and is one of the most common and most disabling neurological disorders. The accurate diagnosis of seizures is essential as some patients will be misdiagnosed with epilepsy, whereas others will receive an incorrect diagnosis. Indeed, errors in diagnosis are common, and many patients fail to receive the correct treatment, which often has severe consequences. Although many patients have seizure control using a single medication, others require multiple medications, resective surgery, neuromodulation devices or dietary therapies. In addition, one-third of patients will continue to have uncontrolled seizures. Epilepsy can substantially impair quality of life owing to seizures, comorbid mood and psychiatric disorders, cognitive deficits and adverse effects of medications. In addition, seizures can be fatal owing to direct effects on autonomic and arousal functions or owing to indirect effects such as drowning and other accidents. Deciphering the pathophysiology of epilepsy has advanced the understanding of the cellular and molecular events initiated by pathogenetic insults that transform normal circuits into epileptic circuits (epileptogenesis) and the mechanisms that generate seizures (ictogenesis). The discovery of >500 genes associated with epilepsy has led to new animal models, more precise diagnoses and, in some cases, targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orrin Devinsky
- Departments of Neurology, Neuroscience, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Annamaria Vezzani
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS 'Mario Negri' Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy
| | - Terence J O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Departments of Neurology and Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nathalie Jette
- Department of Neurology and Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, and Department of Neurology, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marco de Curtis
- Epilepsy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Piero Perucca
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Departments of Neurology and Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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50
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Dunn P, Albury CL, Maksemous N, Benton MC, Sutherland HG, Smith RA, Haupt LM, Griffiths LR. Next Generation Sequencing Methods for Diagnosis of Epilepsy Syndromes. Front Genet 2018; 9:20. [PMID: 29467791 PMCID: PMC5808353 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by an increased predisposition for seizures. Although this definition suggests that it is a single disorder, epilepsy encompasses a group of disorders with diverse aetiologies and outcomes. A genetic basis for epilepsy syndromes has been postulated for several decades, with several mutations in specific genes identified that have increased our understanding of the genetic influence on epilepsies. With 70-80% of epilepsy cases identified to have a genetic cause, there are now hundreds of genes identified to be associated with epilepsy syndromes which can be analyzed using next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques such as targeted gene panels, whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS). For effective use of these methodologies, diagnostic laboratories and clinicians require information on the relevant workflows including analysis and sequencing depth to understand the specific clinical application and diagnostic capabilities of these gene sequencing techniques. As epilepsy is a complex disorder, the differences associated with each technique influence the ability to form a diagnosis along with an accurate detection of the genetic etiology of the disorder. In addition, for diagnostic testing, an important parameter is the cost-effectiveness and the specific diagnostic outcome of each technique. Here, we review these commonly used NGS techniques to determine their suitability for application to epilepsy genetic diagnostic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Dunn
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Cassie L Albury
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Neven Maksemous
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Miles C Benton
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Heidi G Sutherland
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Robert A Smith
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Larisa M Haupt
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lyn R Griffiths
- Genomics Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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