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Abildgaard Hansen O, Clemensen J, Beier CP, Barasinski Pedersen J, Smith AC, Kaas Larsen M. Living with epilepsy in adolescence and young adulthood transitioning from pediatric to adult hospital services: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 158:109955. [PMID: 39059136 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transition is characterized by developing greater self-identity and growing independence, but adolescents dealing with chronic illnesses encounter health-related and situational changes during transition. Despite the many suggestions made in recent years, the shift from pediatric to adult care continues to pose difficulties for adolescents and young adults with epilepsy (AWE). The holistic perspective of AWE's experiences and needs during transition is not as well understood. AIM To synthesize the qualitative evidence related to AWE's experiences and needs transitioning from pediatric to adult hospital care. METHODS This systematic review adhered to the rigorous Joanna Briggs methodology for qualitative evidence synthesis. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, PsycINFO, and ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global, from their inception to April 2024. The findings were critically appraised and aggregated using meta-synthesis. RESULTS The search yielded a total of 3,985 studies, and twenty-one were included in the review. Two of the included studies were undertaken in a program where a transition clinic was established. The meta-synthesis reveals that the transition experience of AWE is more than a change from one clinic to another and is interwoven into a pattern of developmental, health-illness, situational, and organizational transition issues. Five synthesized findings were developed: 1) Feeling different from others and striving to address the impact of epilepsy in everyday life; 2) the transition from pediatric to adult care - a problematic intersection point; 3) the family's role - support or parental overprotectiveness 4) seeking knowledge and being familiar with epilepsy supported by healthcare professionals and technologies, and 5) development of independence and responsibility through involvement and support from healthcare professionals and parents. CONCLUSION During the transition from pediatric to adult hospital care, AWEs encounter a loss of familiarity, increased responsibility, and feelings of not belonging. Therefore, it is essential to create an environment where they can thrive beyond the limitations of their illness. Understanding, acceptance, and inclusivity should characterize this environment to support AWEs in facilitating the development of responsibility, independence, and confidence as they navigate transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Abildgaard Hansen
- Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4 5000, Odense, Denmark; Open Patient Data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital/Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløws Vej 9a 5000, Odense, Denmark; Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Kløvervænget 8C, Entrance 101 5000, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Jane Clemensen
- Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Kløvervænget 8C, Entrance 101 5000, Odense, Denmark; Hans Christian Andersen Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Odense University Hospital, Kløvervænget 23C 5000, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Christoph P Beier
- Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4 5000, Odense, Denmark; Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Kløvervænget 8C, Entrance 101 5000, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Jan Barasinski Pedersen
- Middelfart Municipality, Social and Health Administration, Nytorv 9 5500, Middelfart, Denmark.
| | - Anthony C Smith
- Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Kløvervænget 8C, Entrance 101 5000, Odense, Denmark; Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital, 199 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital Campus, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia.
| | - Malene Kaas Larsen
- Department of Surgery, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4 5000, Odense, Denmark; Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55 5230, Odense, Denmark.
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Tinelli M M, Roddy A, Knapp M, Arango C, Mendez MA, Cusack J, Murphy D, Canitano R, Oakley B, Quoidbach V. Economic Evaluation of anti-epileptic Medicines for Autistic Children with Epilepsy. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:2733-2741. [PMID: 37142904 PMCID: PMC11286621 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05941-8] [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] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
We examine the cost-effectiveness of treating epilepsy with anti-epileptic medicines in autistic children, looking at impacts on healthcare providers (in England, Ireland, Italy and Spain) and children's families (in Ireland). We find carbamazepine to be the most cost-effective drug to try first in children with newly diagnosed focal seizures. For England and Spain, oxcarbazepine is the most cost-effective treatment when taken as additional treatment for those children whose response to monotherapy is suboptimal. In Ireland and Italy, gabapentin is the most cost-effective option. Our additional scenario analysis presents the aggregate cost to families with autistic children who are being treated for epilepsy: this cost is considerably higher than healthcare provider expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Tinelli M
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK.
| | - Aine Roddy
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
- Atlantic Technological University, Sligo, Ireland
| | - Martin Knapp
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Celso Arango
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, CIBERSAM, IiSGM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Andreina Mendez
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Universidad Complutense, CIBERSAM, IiSGM, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Roberto Canitano
- azienda - Azienda ospedaliero-universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
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Lolk K, Werenberg Dreier J, Christensen J. Individual and neighborhood-level socioeconomic deprivation and risk of epilepsy after traumatic brain Injury: A register-based cohort study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 156:109807. [PMID: 38678986 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Lolk
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Denmark; Centre for Integrated Register-based Research, CIRRAU, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Julie Werenberg Dreier
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Denmark; Centre for Integrated Register-based Research, CIRRAU, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jakob Christensen
- National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
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Abildgaard Hansen O, Clemensen J, Beier CP, Pors Klinting G, Smith AC, Kaas Larsen M. Being an adolescent with epilepsy during the transition from pediatric to adult hospital care: A qualitative descriptive study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 155:109780. [PMID: 38640727 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transition from pediatric to adult care is challenging for adolescent patients despite numerous recommendations in recent decades. However, the perspective of the patients is sparsely investigated. AIM To explore the experiences and needs of adolescents with epilepsy (AWE) during the transition from pediatric to adult hospital care. METHODS We conducted 15 semi-structured interviews with AWEs aged 13-20 years and 10 h of field observations of consultations. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, anonymized, and entered into NVivo (version 12, QSR International) with the transcribed field notes. Data were analyzed using systematic text condensation. RESULTS Three themes were identified: (1) Navigating epilepsy in everyday life; (2) The difficult balance between concealment and openness about epilepsy; and (3) Being seen as an individual and not an illness. AWEs' needs in transition are closely associated with their experiences and perceptions of illness, treatment, consultations, and seizures. Notably, AWEs reveal a significant concern about being overlooked beyond their medical condition in appointments. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the vulnerability and challenges of AWEs transitioning to adult care. Overall, AWEs seek understanding, acceptance, and autonomy in managing their epilepsy and transitioning to adult care. Their experiences underscore the importance of holistic support and communication in healthcare settings. A concerted effort from healthcare professionals (HCP) is necessary to foster the recognition of AWEs as individuals with distinct personalities, needs, and capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Abildgaard Hansen
- Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Open Patient Data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital/Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark.
| | - Jane Clemensen
- Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Hans Christian Andersen Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Christoph P Beier
- Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | | | - Anthony C Smith
- Centre for Innovative Medical Technology, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Centre for Online Health, The University of Queensland, Australia; Centre for Health Services Research, The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Malene Kaas Larsen
- Department of Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Mazzone PP, Weir CJ, Stephen J, Bhattacharya S, Chin RFM. Socioeconomic status in adulthood of children with and without a history of seizures: A retrospective cohort study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 153:109705. [PMID: 38428172 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109705] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Compare adulthood socioeconomic status for children with and without a history of seizures. METHODS Retrospective cohort study using Aberdeen Children of the Nineteen Fifties (ACONF) data comprising children born 1950-1956 attending primary school 1962-1964, with follow-up data collected in 2001. Adulthood socioeconomic status was based on registrar general measure of occupational social class and categorised as high or low. We adjusted for potentially confounding variables including childhood socioeconomic status, behavioural issues (Rutter A/B scores), biological sex, school test scores, educational attainment, parental engagement with education, peer-status in school, and alcohol use in adulthood. A multivariate binary logistic regression was performed to estimate the adjusted association between children with a history of seizures of any type (for example febrile seizures, or provoked seizures of any other etiology or seizures in the context of epilepsy) or severity and adult socioeconomic status. Multiple imputation using the Monte-Carlo-Markov-Chain method accounted for missing data. RESULTS Pooled estimates (N = 2,208) comparing children with a history of seizures (n = 81) and children without a history of seizures (n = 2,127) found no differences between these cohorts in terms of adulthood socioeconomic status in both unadjusted (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.45 [95 % CI 0.71-2.96], p = 0.31) and adjusted (1.02 [0.46, 2.24], p = 0.96) analyses. Compared to males, females were at increased odds of having a lower socioeconomic status in adulthood (1.56 [1.13-2.17], p = 0.01).Compared to those with low educational attainment, those with moderate (0.32 [0.21, 0.48], p < 0.001) and high (0.12 [0.07, 0.20], p < 0.001) educational attainment were at reduced odds of having a lower socioeconomic status in adulthood. CONCLUSION Cognitive problems in childhood (using educational attainment and scores on primary school tests proxy markers for cognition) rather than a history of seizures per se, were associated with lower SES in a population of adults born 1950-56 in Aberdeen. This relationship may be different depending on the time in history and nation/region of study. Given the changes in health, education and social support in the management of children with seizures over time, it would be of interest to investigate outcomes in a contemporary cohort. Such studies should ideally have validated diagnoses of seizures, details on seizure characteristics such as seizure type and severity, and a large sample size using national data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo P Mazzone
- Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Child Life and Health, Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Christopher J Weir
- Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline Stephen
- Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sohinee Bhattacharya
- Formerly of Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, The Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Richard F M Chin
- Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Child Life and Health, Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Vonck K, Biraben A, Bosak M, Jennum PJ, Kimiskidis VK, Marusic P, Mitchell JW, Ferreira LN, Ondrušová M, Pana A, Persson U, von Oertzen TJ, Lattanzi S. Usage and impact of patient-reported outcomes in epilepsy. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e3342. [PMID: 37997564 PMCID: PMC10726862 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in clinical practice is gaining increasing attention. This study aimed to provide a critical assessment of the current state-of-the-art and beliefs about the use of PRO in the management of people with epilepsy across some European countries. METHODS Structured interviews were conducted with European experts to collect insights about (I) the personal experience with PRO; (II) the value and impact of PRO in the decision-making process at the national level; and (III) the interest for and use of PRO by national health authorities. RESULTS Nine neurologists (Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, France, Greece, Italy, Poland, and United Kingdom), three health economists (Portugal, Romania, and Sweden), and one epidemiologist (Slovakia) participated. They all stated that PRO are collected at their own countries in the context of clinical trials and/or specific projects. During everyday clinical practice, PRO are collected routinely/almost routinely in Austria and Sweden and only at the discretion of the treating physicians in Czechia, Denmark, France, Greece, and Portugal. There was complete consensus about the favorable impact that the PRO can have in terms of clinical outcomes, healthcare resources utilization, and general patient satisfaction. Only participants from Portugal and Sweden answered that the PRO are perceived as very important by the National Health Authorities of their respective countries. CONCLUSIONS Differences exist in attitudes and perspectives about PRO in epilepsy across Europe. An active plan is warranted to harmonize the measurement of PRO and ensure they can be relevant to people with epilepsy and health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristl Vonck
- Department of Neurology, 4BrainGhent University HospitalGentBelgium
| | - Arnaud Biraben
- Unité d’épileptologie, CHU Pontchaillou RennesRennesFrance
| | - Magdalena Bosak
- Department of NeurologyMedical CollegeJagiellonian UniversityKrakowPoland
| | - Poul Jørgen Jennum
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Danish Center for Sleep MedicineRigshospitaletDenmark
| | - Vasilios K Kimiskidis
- First Department of NeurologyAHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of ThessalonikiThessalonikiGreece
| | - Petr Marusic
- Department of NeurologySecond Faculty of Medicine and Motol University Hospital, Charles UniversityPragueCzech Republic
| | - James W. Mitchell
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative BiologyUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | - Lara N. Ferreira
- Universidade do Algarve—ESGHTFaroPortugal
- Centre for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB)CoimbraPortugal
- Research Centre for TourismSustainability and Well‐Being (CinTurs), Universidade do AlgarveFaroPortugal
| | - Martina Ondrušová
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Pharm‐In, Ltd.BratislavaSlovakia
- Faculty of Public HealthSlovak Medical UniversityBratislavaSlovakia
| | - Adrian Pana
- School of Public Health, Babes Bolyai University Cluj NapocaCenter for Health Outcomes & EvaluationCluj‐NapocaRomania
| | - Ulf Persson
- The Swedish Institute for Health EconomicsLundSweden
| | - Tim J. von Oertzen
- Center for Medicine of the Elderly, Kepler University HospitalJohannes Kepler UniversityLinzAustria
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Neurological Clinic, Department of Experimental and Clinical MedicineMarche Polytechnic UniversityAnconaItaly
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Alrashdi J, Albasher G, Alanazi MM, Al-Qahtani WS, Alanezi AA, Alasmari F. Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Extract on Neurobehavioral and Neurobiological Changes in Male Rats with Pentylenetetrazol-Induced Epilepsy. TOXICS 2023; 11:826. [PMID: 37888677 PMCID: PMC10610768 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11100826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (RO) extract on neurobehavioral and neurobiological changes in male rats with pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced epilepsy. Rats were assigned into five groups: (1) control rats, (2) RO-treated rats, (3) PTZ-treated rats, (4) PTZ + RO-treated rats, and (5) PTZ + valproic acid (VA)-treated rats. The PTZ-treated rats required a significantly longer time and distance to find the platform in the Morris water maze test than the control and RO-treated rats. Additionally, PTZ-treated rats showed a decrease in tendency to cross over the platform compared to PTZ group. PTZ + RO-treated rats showed decreased swimming time and distance to find the platform compared to PTZ group. PTZ + RO-treated rats showed a significant decrease in seizure score, a reduced number of myoclonic jerks, and an increased onset of the first myoclonic jerk compared to PTZ group. PTZ reduced the time required to enter the dark room in the passive avoidance learning test, which was reversed by RO treatment. Biochemical results revealed that PTZ-treated rats had higher levels of oxidative stress markers. RO significantly increased the antioxidant markers levels and maintained normal rat brain histology. This study revealed that RO can shield the brain and neural tissues from PTZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawaher Alrashdi
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gadah Albasher
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed M. Alanazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (F.A.)
| | - Wedad Saeed Al-Qahtani
- Department of Forensic Sciences, College of Criminal Justice, Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, Riyadh 11452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulkareem A. Alanezi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al Batin, Hafr Al Batin 31991, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fawaz Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (F.A.)
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Hoppe C, Beeres K, Witt J, Sassen R, Helmstaedter C. How are they doing as adults? Psychosocial and socioeconomic outcomes 11-30 years after pediatric epilepsy surgery. Epilepsia Open 2023; 8:797-810. [PMID: 37003960 PMCID: PMC10472367 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pediatric epilepsy surgery yields cure from epilepsy or complete seizure control with continued medication in many patients early in life. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term (>10 years) psychosocial and socioeconomic outcomes of pediatric epilepsy surgery and examine the role of comorbid disability, type of surgery, seizure freedom, and age at surgery. METHODS A novel ad hoc parent/patient questionnaire was used to assess educational and occupational attainment, marital/familial status, mobility, and other outcomes in patients who underwent unilobar or multilobar surgery for drug-refractory epilepsy during their childhood. The questionnaire also captured information on comorbid disability. RESULTS Of the 353 eligible patients, 203 could still be contacted and 101 of these (50%) returned appropriately filled-in questionnaires (follow-up intervals: 11-30 [mean: 19.6] years). The cure from epilepsy rate was 53%. Type of surgery was strongly confounded by comorbid disability. Patients with comorbid disabilities had significantly lower rates of regular school degrees, gainful employment, marriage, and driving license (N = 29; 12%, 4%, 0%, 3%) compared with non-disabled patients (N = 69; 89%, 80%, 43%, and 67%, respectively). Patients achieved lower school degrees than their siblings and parents. Non-disabled seizure-free patients had better employment and mobility outcomes compared with non-seizure-free patients. Age at surgery (<10 vs. ≥10 years of age) did not have any effect on any outcome in patients with preschool seizure onset. SIGNIFICANCE Pediatric epilepsy surgery can lead to permanent relief from epilepsy in many patients, but comorbid disability strongly impacts adult life achievement. In non-disabled patients, favorable outcomes in academic, occupational, marital, and mobility domains were achieved, approaching respective rates in the German population. Complete seizure freedom had additional positive effects on employment and mobility in this group. However, in case of chronic comorbid disability the overall life prospects may be limited despite favorable seizure outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Hoppe
- Department of EpileptologyUniversity Hospital BonnBonnGermany
| | | | | | - Robert Sassen
- Department of EpileptologyUniversity Hospital BonnBonnGermany
- Department of NeuropediatricsUniversity Hospital BonnBonnGermany
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Song T, Feng L, Xia Y, Pang M, Geng J, Zhang X, Wang Y. Safety and efficacy of brivaracetam in children epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1170780. [PMID: 37483441 PMCID: PMC10359931 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1170780] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases, affecting people of any age. Although the treatments of epilepsy are more and more diverse, the uncertainty regarding efficacy and adverse events still exists, especially in the control of childhood epilepsy. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta- analysis following the Cochrane Handbook and preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Four databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane library were searched. Studies reporting the use of brivaracetam monotherapy or adjuvant therapy in children (aged ≤18 years) were eligible for inclusion. Each stage of the review was conducted by two authors independently. Random-effects models were used to combine effect sizes for the estimation of efficacy and safety. Results A total of 1884 articles were retrieved, and finally 9 articles were included, enrolling 503 children with epilepsy. The retention rate of BRV treatment was 78% (95% CI: 0.64-0.91), the responder rate (reduction of seizure frequency ≥ 50%) was 35% (95% CI: 0.24-0.47), the freedom seizure rate (no seizure) was 18% (95% CI: 0.10-0.25), and the incidence rate of any treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAE) was 39% (95% CI: 0.09-0.68). The most common TEAE was somnolence, which had an incidence rate of 9% (95% CI: 0.07-0.12). And the incidence rate of mental or behavioral disorders was 12% (95% CI: 0.06-0.17). Conclusion Our systematic review and meta-analysis showed that BRV seemed to be safe and effective in the treatment of childhood epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Song
- Department of Neurology II, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Lingjun Feng
- Surgical Department, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yulei Xia
- Department of Neurology II, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Meng Pang
- Department of Neurology II, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jianhong Geng
- Department of Neurology II, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhang
- Department of Neurology II, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yanqiang Wang
- Department of Neurology II, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
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Kim HJ, Jang HN, Ahn HJ, Yum MS, Ko TS. Long-Term Pharmacological and Psychosocial Outcomes of Adolescent-Onset Epilepsy: A Single-Center Experience. ANNALS OF CHILD NEUROLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.26815/acn.2022.00451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Despite the high incidence of epilepsy during adolescence, little attention has been paid to the outcomes and prognosis of adolescent-onset epilepsy. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term pharmacological and psychosocial outcomes of adolescent-onset epilepsy.Methods: From 1993 to 2019, the electronic medical records of adolescent-onset epilepsy patients were retrieved from Asan Medical Center Children’s Hospital. Seizure outcomes were evaluated based on the seizure-free period at last contact. Possible predictors of remission, relapse, and intractability were investigated. Neuropsychiatric comorbidities, socioeconomic status, and transition outcomes were also assessed. Results: In total, 137 patients were enrolled in this study. The median age at diagnosis of epilepsy was 14 years and the mean duration of therapy was 13.0 years. During follow-up, 93 patients (67.9%) achieved terminal remission, of which 27 cases (19.7%) resolved. Relapse after withdrawal of medication occurred in 74 patients (54.0%), and the presence of electroencephalographic abnormalities (odds ratio [OR], 8.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.39 to 48.87; P=0.020), poor adherence (OR, 4.84; 95% CI, 2.13 to 11.02; P=0.000), and history of febrile seizures (OR, 4.10; 95% CI, 1.21 to 13.93; P=0.024) were risk factors for relapse. Neurodevelopmental and psychological comorbidities were documented in 17 (12.4%) and 12 (8.8%) patients, respectively. Thirty-six (26.3%) patients transferred to adult clinics, at a mean age of 21.9 years. Conclusion: This study showed overall favorable seizure outcomes with a high rate of remission, but with frequent relapse after withdrawal.
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Reyes A, Salinas L, Hermann BP, Baxendale S, Busch RM, Barr WB, McDonald CR. Establishing the cross-cultural applicability of a harmonized approach to cognitive diagnostics in epilepsy: Initial results of the International Classification of Cognitive Disorders in Epilepsy in a Spanish-speaking sample. Epilepsia 2023; 64:728-741. [PMID: 36625416 PMCID: PMC10394710 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to evaluate the cross-cultural application of the International Classification of Cognitive Disorders in Epilepsy (IC-CoDE) to a cohort of Spanish-speaking patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) living in the United States. METHODS Eighty-four Spanish-speaking patients with TLE completed neuropsychological measures of memory, language, executive function, visuospatial functioning, and attention/processing speed as part of the Neuropsychological Screening Battery for Hispanics. The contribution of demographic and clinical variables to cognitive performance was evaluated. A sensitivity analysis was conducted by examining the base rates of impairment across several impairment thresholds. The IC-CoDE taxonomy was then applied, and the base rate of cognitive phenotypes for each cutoff was calculated. The distribution of phenotypes was compared to the published IC-CoDE taxonomy data, which utilized a large, multicenter cohort of English-speaking patients with TLE. RESULTS Across the different impairment cutoffs, memory was the most impaired cognitive domain, with impairments in list learning ranging from 50% to 78%. Application of the IC-CoDE taxonomy utilizing a -1.5-SD cutoff revealed an intact cognitive profile in 47.6% of patients, single-domain impairment in 23.8% of patients, bidomain impairment in 14.3% of patients, and generalized impairment in 14.3% of the sample. This distribution was comparable to the phenotype distribution observed in the IC-CoDE validation sample. SIGNIFICANCE We demonstrate a similar pattern and distribution of cognitive phenotypes in a Spanish-speaking epilepsy cohort compared to an English-speaking sample. This suggests stability in the underlying phenotypes associated with TLE and applicability of the IC-CoDE for guiding cognitive diagnostics in epilepsy research that can be applied to culturally and linguistically diverse samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anny Reyes
- Center for Multimodal Imaging and Genetics, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lilian Salinas
- New York University Langone Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bruce P. Hermann
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health USA
| | - Sallie Baxendale
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology
| | - Robyn M. Busch
- Epilepsy Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Neurology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - William B. Barr
- New York University Langone Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York, NY, USA
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, NYU-Langone Medical Center and NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carrie R. McDonald
- Center for Multimodal Imaging and Genetics, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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Hoppe C, Beeres K, Witt JA, Sassen R, Helmstaedter C. Clinical adult outcome 11-30 years after pediatric epilepsy surgery: Complications and other surgical adverse events, seizure control, and cure of epilepsy. Epilepsia 2023; 64:335-347. [PMID: 36468792 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pediatric epilepsy surgery promises seizure freedom or even cure of epilepsy. We evaluated the long-term (≥10 years) adult clinical outcome including surgery-related adverse events and complications, which are generally underreported. METHODS A monocentric, single-arm, questionnaire study in now adult patients who underwent epilepsy surgery during childhood. A novel ad hoc parental/patient questionnaire, which addressed diverse outcome domains was applied. RESULTS From a total of 353 eligible patients, 203 could be contacted (3 patients died of causes unknown) and 101 (50%) returned appropriately filled-in surveys. No evidence for a survey-response bias was found. The rate of surgical complications according to the patient records was 9%. As regards the survey, half of the parents/patients reported surgical adverse events (expected and unexpected issues) and one-third reported permanent aversive sequels. Two-thirds of the patients were seizure-free during the last year before follow-up; 63% were Engel class 1A; favorable seizure outcomes (including auras only) were obtained in 73%; and 54% were seizure-free and off antiseizure medicine (ASM), that is, cured of epilepsy. In non-seizure-free patients, seizure relapse occurred at any time during the follow-up interval but 87% of those with a seizure-free first postoperative year were seizure-free at follow-up. One patient experienced a seizure relapse during the ASM withdrawal trial but became seizure-free again with ASMs. Eleven patients reported an increased number of ASMs as compared to the time before surgery. Earlier focal surgery did not affect the long-term clinical outcome. SIGNIFICANCE Pediatric epilepsy surgery was capable of curing epilepsy in about one-half of the children and to significantly control seizures in about three-fourths. Long-term success of focal surgery did not depend on age at surgery or duration of epilepsy. Surgical adverse events including complications may be underreported and must be assessed more thoroughly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Hoppe
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kassandra Beeres
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Robert Sassen
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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13
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Poole BJ, Lah S. Difficulties with mathematics experienced by adults with epilepsy in daily life: An online study. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 138:109000. [PMID: 36446269 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.109000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mathematics encompass a variety of skills, broadly grouped into basic numeracy to complex secondary mathematical skills. In children with epilepsy difficulties with mathematics are common and related to a multicomponent working memory capacity. Little is known about mathematical skills of adults with epilepsy in daily life. Hence, we aimed to compare basic and secondary mathematical skills of adults with epilepsy to controls, examine relations between mathematical skills and working memory, and explored relationships between mathematical skills and epilepsy variables (age of onset, seizure frequency, and anti-seizure medication). METHODS Eighty four people with epilepsy and 86 healthy controls completed questionnaires on their subjective experience of using mathematics and working memory skills in daily life: The Dyscalculia Checklist (DC) and Working Memory Questionnaire (WMQ; including attention, storage, and executive scales), respectively. Questionnaires also collected demographic and epilepsy variables. RESULTS Adults with epilepsy reported greater difficulties in basic and secondary mathematical skills on the DC compared with controls. Only one epilepsy variable, a younger age of epilepsy onset, related to higher DC scores (greater mathematical difficulties), but was not significantly related in regression analyses. Instead, the WMQ explained 33% of the variance on the DC; the poorer storage and attention (but not executive) on the WMQ were associated with the higher DC score, when demographic and epilepsy variables were accounted for. SIGNIFICANCE Adults with epilepsy reported significant difficulties with mathematics in daily life, which were not explained by epilepsy variables but by poor working memory. While our findings suggest that daily difficulties with mathematics may be comorbid with epilepsy rather than epilepsy related, it is important to be cognizant of mathematical difficulties experienced by patients with epilepsy as they have potential to impact understanding of numerical information provided in patient care, such as risks associated with different epilepsy treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda J Poole
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Suncica Lah
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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14
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Larsen MS, Agerskov H. The importance of an outdoor playground for children with epilepsy and their family during and after hospitalization: A qualitative study of parents' experiences. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 66:e16-e21. [PMID: 35811185 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2022.07.001] [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: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore parents' experiences of using an outdoor playground during hospitalization with their child with epilepsy. METHOD The study is based on a qualitative exploratory design. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with 10 parents with a child with epilepsy (6-11 years). A phenomenological- hermeneutic approach was taken, inspired by Ricoeur. Data analysis and interpretation have been conducted at three levels: naive reading, structural analysis, and critical interpretation and discussion. RESULTS During hospitalization the playground was the children's territory, where children felt safe, in control and normality. Parents experienced valuable time with their children through participation, and play facilitated communication and reduced pain and negative emotions. The playground improved parents and children's emotional well-being during hospitalization. Further, it supported coping with epilepsy, and contributed to gain successful experiences thus children developed self-esteem. CONCLUSION The study indicates that to the parents, an outdoor playground at the hospital environment is valuable for supporting children with epilepsy and their families to cope with hospitalization and everyday life, and it contributes to improve the family's physical, social and emotional well-being. The results emphasize that play at an outdoor playground could be integrated in the care and treatment during hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Schou Larsen
- Children's Department, The Danish Epilepsy Center Filadelfia, Dr. sellsvej 23, 4293 Dianalund, Denmark.
| | - Hanne Agerskov
- Department of Nephrology, Odense University Hospital, Department of Clinical Institute and Family Focused Health Care Research Centre, University of Southern Denmark, Kløvervænget 6, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
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15
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Stritzelberger J, Walther K, Olmes D, Gollwitzer S, Graf W, Welte TM, Lang JD, Reindl C, Schwab S, Kriwy P, Hamer HM. Antiseizure medication and perceived "fair" cost allocation: a factorial survey among neurologists, persons with epilepsy, their relatives and a control group. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2694-2702. [PMID: 35892320 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As resources are limited in modern healthcare systems, the decision on the allocation of expensive drugs can be supported by a public consent. This study examines how various factors influence subjectively perceived "fair" pricing of antiseizure medication (ASM) among four groups including physicians, persons with epilepsy (PWE), their relatives and a control group. METHODS We conducted a factorial survey. Vignettes featured a fictional PWE receiving a fictional ASM. The characteristics of the fictional PWE, ASM and epilepsy varied. Participants were asked to assess the subjectively appropriate annual cost of ASM treatment per year for each scenario. RESULTS 57 PWE (age 37.7 ± 12.3, 45.6 % females), 44 relatives (age 48.4 ± 15.7, 51.1 % females), 46 neurologists (age 37.1 ± 9.6, 65.2 % females) and 47 persons in the control group (age 31.2 ± 11.2, 68.1 % females) completed the questionnaire. The amount of money that respondents were willing to spend for ASM-treatment was higher than currently needed in Germany and increased with disease severity among all groups. All groups except for PWE accepted higher costs of a drug with better seizure control. Physicians and the control group, but not PWE and their relatives, tended to do so also for minor or no side effects. Physicians reduced the costs for unemployed patients and the control group spent less money for older patients. SIGNIFICANCE ASM effectiveness appears to justify higher costs. However, the control group attributed less money to older PWE and physicians allocated fewer drug costs to unemployed PWE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Stritzelberger
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Katrin Walther
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Olmes
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Gollwitzer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Graf
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Johannes D Lang
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Caroline Reindl
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefan Schwab
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Peter Kriwy
- Institute of Sociology, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Hajo M Hamer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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16
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de Lima Leite M, Toporcov TN, Pai JD, da Silva JC. Socio-demographic profiles and obstetrics outcomes of pregnant women with epilepsy in a vulnerability State, Brazil. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271328. [PMID: 35857720 PMCID: PMC9299315 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The socio-demographic profile of pregnant women in low- and middle- income countries is characterized by low educational attainment and unemployment, leading to social and economic morbidity. characterized by limited opportunities for education, employment, and marriage, which are strongly related to the stigmatization of the disease. The study of the socio- profile and obstetric outcomes of pregnant women with epilepsy in Alagoas, Brazil, may help understand this scenario and facilitate the development of public policy strategies to reduce local morbidity. OBJECTIVES We aimed to describe the sociodemographic profile of pregnant women with epilepsy and obstetric outcomes in Alagoas, Brazil. METHODS This cohort study was based on medical records of pregnant women with epilepsy in Brazilian high-risk maternity hospitals from 2008 to 2020. The following data were collected: age, race, education, marital status, occupation, number of pregnancies, delivery, and abortion. The inclusion criteria were pregnant women with and without epilepsy (control group) aged < 40 years. RESULTS The prevalence of PWWE was 0.49% (n = 224/44,917). Cesarean delivery was more frequent in PWWE than in pregnant women without epilepsy (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 22.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 14.35-33.73; p<0,01). Abortion was associated with PWWE (OR adjusted = 1.72; 95% CI = 1.13-2.61; p = 0.01). Pregnant women in the countryside were more likely to develop epilepsy than those born in the capital (OR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.12-2.14; p <0.01). CONCLUSION The PWWE socio-demographic profile of the Alagoas had a predominance of brown- colored skin, single status, homemakers, and illiteracy with a high proportion residing in the interior of the state. The obstetrics data show a higher incidence of cesarean deliveries and miscarriages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnúcia de Lima Leite
- Universidade Estadual de Ciências da Saúde Alagoas (UNCISAL), Maceió, AL, Brazil
- Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Janise Dal Pai
- Universidade Pontifícia Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Rio Grande do Sul, RS, Brazil
| | - José Claudio da Silva
- Universidade Estadual de Ciências da Saúde Alagoas (UNCISAL), Maceió, AL, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina do Centro Universitário (CESMAC), Maceió, AL, Brazil
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17
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Cross JH, Reilly C, Gutierrez Delicado E, Smith ML, Malmgren K. Epilepsy surgery for children and adolescents: evidence-based but underused. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2022; 6:484-494. [DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(22)00098-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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18
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Hastrup LH, Jennum P, Ibsen R, Kjellberg J, Simonsen E. Welfare consequences of early-onset Borderline Personality Disorder: a nationwide register-based case-control study. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 31:253-260. [PMID: 33231787 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-020-01683-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Information regarding welfare consequences of early onset of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is limited. This nationwide study aimed to estimate the educational and employment outcome and health care costs of patients with early-onset BPD compared with matched controls. All patients (< 19 years) with first diagnosis of BPD in the Danish Patient Register (NPR) during the period 1983-2015 were included. Health care costs and socioeconomic variables were extracted from national registers. A total of 171 patients was compared with 677 controls. At the age of 20 years, BPD patients had reached a statistically significantly lower educational level (including lower primary school grades) and employment status compared with the controls. When adjusting for the parents' educational level, BPD patients were nearly 22 times more likely to be unemployed (OR = 21.7, 95% CI 11.9, 39.6), and nearly 15 times more likely to be on disability pension (OR = 14.8, 95% CI 5.0, 43.9) than controls. Furthermore, the total health care costs were more than 8 times higher in the BPD group. Early onset of BPD was associated with lower educational and vocational outcome and increased health care costs as early as at the age of 20 years. Even after controlling for parents' lower socioeconomic status, the patients have poorer outcome than the control group. This underlines that initiatives to support patients in finishing school and secondary education is highly needed. Future prevention and early intervention programs should target patients with early-onset BPD and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Halling Hastrup
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Psychiatry Region Zealand, Faelledvej 6, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark.
| | - Poul Jennum
- Center for Sleep Medicine, Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Jakob Kjellberg
- VIVE The Danish Center for Social Science Research, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik Simonsen
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Psychiatry Region Zealand, Faelledvej 6, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Moos TAO, Rydahl-Hansen S. 'Everything is as before, but nothing is as it was'-A phenomenological-hermeneutic study of meaningfulness in adult patients with refractory epilepsy after interdisciplinary epilepsy rehabilitation. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 122:108168. [PMID: 34271324 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation aimed at adults with refractory epilepsy (RE) establishes scientific evidence of higher health-related QoL, including improved self-worth and increased self-awareness as outcomes. Yet, there is very little research-based knowledge of how life transforms itself after the rehabilitation program from patients' perspectives. AIM The aim of this study was to identify and describe how - from the patient perspectives - life transforms itself after rehabilitation among adults with RE, focusing on the meaningfulness of interdisciplinary rehabilitation. METHOD Nine patients, who all completed an Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Program in an Adult Epilepsy Clinic, were interviewed between six months and two years after rehabilitation. Nine interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed as described by the phenomenological method 'Reflective Lifeworld Research' (RLR). FINDINGS The essence of the phenomenon was revealed as life as a struggle for a dignified existence with RE as a navigating life companion. Through the clusters of meaning, four constituents emerged from the phenomenon: 1) to accept the limitations of body and mind; 2) to be on a journey toward your inner self; 3) to be quietly understood; 4) to fight for renewed hope and recognition during transition. CONCLUSION The patients consider it significant to know their own bodies with the constraints that this involves. This knowledge helps them make decisions that not only have a positive effect on their epilepsy, but also raise their self-esteem and give them renewed hope and courage to face life. However, the struggle for a dignified life is continuously hard, and it comes to a head in patients' transition from 'patient to citizen', where asymmetries arise. These asymmetries leave considerable marks on the patients' worlds and challenge their renewed hope for a dignified existence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Arnam Olsen Moos
- Department of Adult Epileptology and PNES, The Danish National Epilepsy Center, Filadelfia, Kolonivej 2 A, 1. Sal, 4293 Dianalund, Denmark.
| | - Susan Rydahl-Hansen
- Research Unit of Nursing and Healthcare, Institute of Public Health Health, Aarhus University, Department of Public Health - Department of Science in Nursing, Campus Emdrup, Tuborgvej 164, bygning B8, 1. sal, 2400 Copenhagen NV, Denmark.
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20
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Park KJ, Kim MJ, Yum MS, Ko TS, Kim HW. Clinical and neuropsychological characteristics of children with epilepsy and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Seizure 2021; 91:325-331. [PMID: 34274892 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the clinical and neuropsychological characteristics-cognition, behavior, parenting-related stress, and sleep-of children with epilepsy, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or both. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of 33 children with epilepsy and ADHD, 113 with epilepsy alone, and 294 with ADHD alone. The children were required to complete the Advanced Test of Attention (ATA), and their parents completed the ADHD Rating Scale (ARS), Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ), Disruptive Behavior Disorder (DBD) Scale (DBD), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and Parenting Stress Index-Short Form (PSI-SF). RESULTS Auditory Commission Errors made during the ATA were higher in children with epilepsy and ADHD than in those with epilepsy alone. On the SRS, all the subscales except Social Awareness were significantly higher in children with epilepsy and ADHD or ADHD alone than in those with epilepsy alone. The Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorder subscales on DBD, Attention Problems, and Aggressive Behaviors on CBCL were significantly higher in children with both epilepsy and ADHD than in those with epilepsy alone. The Parent-Child Dysfunctional Interaction subscales on the PSI-SF were significantly greater in children with both epilepsy and ADHD than in those with epilepsy alone. The subscales on the CSHQ did not significantly differ between children with both epilepsy and ADHD and those with epilepsy alone. CONCLUSIONS In children with epilepsy, comorbid ADHD was associated with negative effects on response inhibition, aggressive behavior, and parenting-related stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kee Jeong Park
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Jee Kim
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Sun Yum
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Sung Ko
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Won Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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21
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Gesche J, Antonson S, Dreier JW, Christensen J, Beier CP. Social outcome and psychiatric comorbidity of generalized epilepsies - A case-control study. Epilepsia 2021; 62:1158-1169. [PMID: 33734434 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate social outcome and psychiatric comorbidity of patients with idiopathic/genetic generalized epilepsies (IGEs) and its subtypes (epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone [EGTCS], juvenile absence epilepsy [JAE], and juvenile myoclonic epilepsy [JME]). METHODS A cohort of 402 adult patients with IGE from the Danish island Funen was matched with 4020 randomly selected geography-, age-, and sex-matched controls via the Danish Civil Registration System. Based on register data, we compared social status measured by cohabitant status, educational attainment, income, affiliation to labor market, and psychiatric comorbidity. RESULTS As compared to controls, patients with IGE had similar cohabitant status but fewer children (no children: 59.0% vs 50.9%), and lower educational level (primary school only: 46.0% vs 37.3%), employment rate (outside of workforce: 56.7% vs 46.5%), and income (low income: 32.6% vs 24.9%) (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). Having IGE was associated with higher a proportion of psychiatric comorbidity (IGE, 22.6%; controls, 13.0%) (P < 0.001). Seizure-free patients did not differ from controls; patients with persistent seizures had lower incomes and employment rates. In the IGE subgroup analyses, JME was associated with worse social status in all parameters studied (eg, 65.9% of JME patients were outside the workforce vs 44.5% of matched controls; P < 0.001), whereas no adverse social status was identified in patients with EGTCS and JAE. SIGNIFICANCE Patients with IGE in general and JME in particular have poorer social status and more psychiatric comorbidity than matched population controls without epilepsy. Poor seizure control was associated with social status and may contribute to negative socioeconomic consequences associated with IGE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Gesche
- Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sussie Antonson
- National Center for Register-Based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Center for Integrated Register-based Research, CIRRAU, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Julie Werenberg Dreier
- National Center for Register-Based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Center for Integrated Register-based Research, CIRRAU, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jakob Christensen
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christoph Patrick Beier
- Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,OPEN, Open Patient data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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22
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Jennum P, Debes NMM, Ibsen R, Kjellberg J. Long-term employment, education, and healthcare costs of childhood and adolescent onset of epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107256. [PMID: 32622728 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Childhood- and adolescent-onset epilepsy may have a significant impact on long-term educational and vocational status, which in turn has consequences for individuals' socioeconomic status. We estimated the factual long-term socioeconomic consequences and healthcare costs of individuals with diagnosed epilepsy. METHODS The prospective cohort study included Danish individuals with epilepsy onset before the age of 18 years, diagnosed between 2002 and 2016. Healthcare costs and socioeconomic data were obtained from nationwide administrative and health registers. The prediction was made with a general estimating equation (GEE). A total of 15,329 individuals were found with the diagnosis during this period and were followed until the age of 30 years. These were compared with 31,414 controls. We used 30 years as this represent an age where most has finalized their education, and as such represent the final educational level. Patients and their controls were subdivided into debut age groups of 0-5 and 6-18 years. Individuals were matched for age, gender, and residential location. RESULTS Compared with control groups, patients with epilepsy at the age of 30 years tended to have the following: 1) parents with lower educational attainment; 2) a significantly lower educational level when controlling for parental education attainment; 3) lower grade-point averages; 4) a lower probability of being in employment and lower income, even when transfer payments were considered; and 5) elevated healthcare costs, including those for psychiatric care. It was also noted that the long-term educational consequences for patients with epilepsy were associated with parental educational level. Differences were more pronounced for those with early (0-5 years) rather than later (6-18 years) onset epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Epilepsy is associated with severe long-term socioeconomic consequences: lower educational level, school grades, employment status, and earned income. The presence of epilepsy is associated with parental educational level. LIMITATIONS SIGNIFICANT OUTCOMES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poul Jennum
- Danish Center for Sleep Medicine, Department of Clinical +Neurophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Jakob Kjellberg
- VIVE - The Danish Center for Social Science Research, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Long-term seizure, comorbidity and socioeconomic outcomes of patients with convulsive epilepsy in rural West China. Epilepsy Res 2020; 168:106480. [PMID: 33120304 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the long-term outcomes of patients with convulsive epilepsy in rural West China and to explore potential related factors. METHODS Patients who were provided Phenobarbital as a treatment and followed-up monthly were enrolled from the Convulsive Epilepsy Control and Management Program in West China. Their clinical and demographic information were obtained from the program database and a questionnaire. Seizure outcomes, comorbidities, annual income, marital status, employment and quality of life (QOL) were evaluated as long-term outcomes. Logistic regression was used to analyze the related factors. RESULTS Of 473 eligible patients with a median follow-up time of nearly 7 years, 312 (66 %) had one-year terminal remission. A total of 320 (67.7 %) patients had a low annual income (<5000 Yuan), and 198 (41.9 %) patients reported a comorbidity. Among 460 patients of marriageable age, 137 (29.8 %) were unmarried. 60.4 % (333) patients reported improved QOL. Time of follow-up, seizure frequency during early treatment, compliance, annual cost for epilepsy treatment and annual income were related to the seizure outcome. Baseline seizure frequency was associated with comorbidities. Sex, annual cost for epilepsy treatment and seizure outcomes were associated with annual income. Age, sex and age at onset were correlated with current marital status. Compliance and taking traditional Chinese medicine were associated with QOL. CONCLUSION The prognosis of epilepsy goes beyond being seizure-free. Comorbidities, income and marriage outcomes in resource-poor areas are less promising. Systematic management considering prognosis-related factors for epilepsy by a collaboration of health providers and society is needed.
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Nishida T, Terada K, Ikeda H, Inoue Y. Seizures, accidental injuries at work, and reasons for resignation in people with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 111:107237. [PMID: 32575014 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Few studies have examined seizures, accidental injuries at work, and reasons for resignation in people with epilepsy (PWE). We performed a questionnaire survey of PWE to identify the risk of injury at work, its relationship to different seizure characteristics, and reasons for resignation. METHODS We distributed a questionnaire survey in the outpatient clinic of a single epilepsy center. Medical information was obtained retrospectively from medical records. RESULTS Of 200 patients who received the questionnaire, 172 responded. Two-fifths of PWE had experienced seizures at work, but the risk of accidental injuries due to epileptic seizures was only 0.01 person/year (1.0%) and 0.018 injuries/year, whereas the risk of accidental injuries not related to seizures was 0.039 person/year (3.9%) and 0.083 injuries/year. All accidental injuries due to seizures at work were caused by seizures characterized by a fall and inappropriate behavior with impaired awareness. Most accidental injuries due to seizures at work were caused by seizures that occurred at least once a year. The types of injuries reported were bruising, abrasion, laceration, fracture, burn, and submersion injuries. A quarter of PWE had left previous jobs because of epilepsy, of these, about four-fifths reported that seizures at the workplace had interfered with their own or others' tasks. SIGNIFICANCE The risk of seizure-related injury is not high compared to the risk of injury not related to seizures, and most injuries due to seizures are not severe. The features of seizures with a fall, impaired awareness, and inappropriate behavior, as well as seizure frequency, should be considered when evaluating the risks associated with seizures in the workplace. Most PWE who had left their previous job because of epilepsy had experienced seizures at the workplace interfering with their own or others' tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuji Nishida
- National Epilepsy Center, NHO, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, 886 Urushiyama, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka 420-8688, Japan.
| | - Kiyohito Terada
- National Epilepsy Center, NHO, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, 886 Urushiyama, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka 420-8688, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ikeda
- National Epilepsy Center, NHO, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, 886 Urushiyama, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka 420-8688, Japan
| | - Yushi Inoue
- National Epilepsy Center, NHO, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, 886 Urushiyama, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka 420-8688, Japan
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Chatterjee A, Nair R, Gandeti R, Puppala GK, Chandran V, Gorthi SP, Radhakrishnan K. Socioeconomic consequences of drug-resistant epilepsy in an adult cohort from southern India. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 110:107173. [PMID: 32619961 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to describe the socioeconomic consequences of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). METHODS This study comprised 132 (equal males and females) consecutive patients aged ≥18 years, who fulfilled the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) definition for DRE, prospectively seen in a tertiary care center in South India. We used a structured questionnaire to gather relevant information. RESULTS The mean age was 31 (range 18-70) years. Mean age of onset of epilepsy was 17 years and mean duration of epilepsy 14 years. The most common epilepsy type and etiology were focal epilepsy and gliotic lesions secondary to perinatal insults, respectively. The average out of the pocket expenditure on antiseizure drugs annually amounted to 19% of the gross national product (GNP)/capita, which was borne by family members in more than two-thirds of the subjects. Almost 60% reported epilepsy having affected their education, 40% their employment, and 90% their marital prospects. Female patients were less often employed outside their homes and had more marital problems compared with males. CONCLUSIONS In addition to high seizure burden, DRE adversely affects the pursuit of higher education, employment, and marriage. Besides the direct cost of epilepsy, these issues augment both the patient and the caregiver's liability. Socioeconomic consequences of DRE are widely prevalent in developing countries, and this study highlights the need to address them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparajita Chatterjee
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Radhika Nair
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Ranjith Gandeti
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Goutham Kumar Puppala
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Vijay Chandran
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Sankar Prasad Gorthi
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Kurupath Radhakrishnan
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
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Jennum P, Hastrup LH, Ibsen R, Kjellberg J, Simonsen E. Welfare consequences for people diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A matched nationwide study in Denmark. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 37:29-38. [PMID: 32682821 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2020.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
There is insufficient data regarding the excess direct and indirect costs associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Using the Danish National Patient Registry (2002-2016), we identified 83,613 people of any age with a diagnosis of ADHD or who were using central-acting medication against ADHD (primarily methylphenidate, with at least two prescriptions) and matched them to 334,446 control individuals. Additionally, 18,959 partners of patients aged ≥18 years with ADHD were identified, and compared with 74,032 control partners. Direct costs were based on data from the Danish Ministry of Health. Information about the use and costs of drugs were obtained from the Danish Medicines Agency. The frequencies of visits and hospitalizations, and costs of general practice were derived from data from the National Health Security. Indirect costs were obtained from Coherent Social Statistics. The average annual health care costs for people with ADHD and their partners were, respectively, €2636 and €477 higher than those of the matched controls. A greater percentage of people with ADHD and their partners compared with respective control subjects received social services (sick pay or disability pension). Those with ADHD had a lower income from employment than did controls for equivalent periods up to five years before the first diagnosis of ADHD. The additional direct and indirect annual costs (for those aged ≥18 years) including transfers of ADHD compared with controls were €23,072 for people with ADHD and €7,997 for their partners. ADHD has substantial socioeconomic consequences for individual patients, their partners and society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poul Jennum
- Danish Center for Sleep Medicine, Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, DK 2600 Glostrup, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Jakob Kjellberg
- VIVE - The Danish Center for Social Science Research, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Erik Simonsen
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Psychiatry, Region Zealand, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medical and health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Foit NA, Bernasconi A, Bernasconi N. Functional Networks in Epilepsy Presurgical Evaluation. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2020; 31:395-405. [PMID: 32475488 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2020.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Continuing advancements in neuroimaging methodology allow for increasingly detailed in vivo characterization of structural and functional brain networks, leading to the recognition of epilepsy as a disorder of large-scale networks. In surgical candidates, analysis of functional networks has proved invaluable for the identification of eloquent brain areas, such as hemispherical language dominance. More recently, connectome-based biomarkers have demonstrated potential to further inform clinical decision making in drug-refractory epilepsy. This article summarizes current evidence on epilepsy as a network disorder, emphasizing potential benefits of network analysis techniques for preoperative assessments and resection planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Alexander Foit
- Neuroimaging of Epilepsy Laboratory, McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, 3801 Rue Université, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Andrea Bernasconi
- Neuroimaging of Epilepsy Laboratory, McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, 3801 Rue Université, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Neda Bernasconi
- Neuroimaging of Epilepsy Laboratory, McConnell Brain Imaging Centre, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, 3801 Rue Université, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada.
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Lystad RP, Rapport F, Bleasel A, Herkes G, Nikpour A, Mitchell R. Hospital service utilization trajectories of individuals living with epilepsy in New South Wales, Australia, 2012-2016: A population-based study. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 105:106941. [PMID: 32062105 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.106941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine five-year trajectories of hospital service utilization among individuals living with epilepsy in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, and to identify factors predictive of trajectory group membership. METHODS This study used group-based trajectory modeling of hospital admissions over a five-year period for individuals living with epilepsy who had an epilepsy-related hospitalization during 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2012 in NSW, Australia (n = 5762). RESULTS The analysis revealed the following five distinct hospital service utilization trajectory groups: "one-off users" (Group 1; 22.9%), "low-chronic users" (Group 2; 47.1%), "moderate-declining users" (Group 3; 10.3%), "moderate-chronic users" (Group 4; 18.3%), and "high-chronic users" (Group 5; 1.5%). There were key features that defined trajectory group membership, in particular the relative proportions of group members with chronic health conditions, other comorbid conditions, refractory epilepsy, and status epilepticus. For instance, "high-chronic users" (Group 5) had higher proportions of individuals with chronic health conditions (34.8%) and refractory epilepsy (19.1%); "moderate-declining users" (Group 3) had higher proportions of individuals with chronic health conditions (35.1%) and status epilepticus (9.8%); and "low-chronic users" (Group 2) had the lowest proportion of individuals with chronic health conditions. CONCLUSION It is important to gain a better understanding of hospital service utilization among individuals living with epilepsy. This research has identified trajectory groups of hospital service utilization profiles of individuals living with epilepsy. Identification of predictors of trajectory group membership allows targeting of strategies to reduce hospital admissions, inform healthcare service delivery, and improve the health and wellbeing of individuals living with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reidar P Lystad
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Frances Rapport
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andrew Bleasel
- University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Geoffrey Herkes
- University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Armin Nikpour
- University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rebecca Mitchell
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Jennum P, Ibsen R, Kjellberg J. Long-term health and socioeconomic consequences of childhood and adolescent-onset of narcolepsy. Sleep Med 2020; 67:23-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2019.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Patel AD, Badalamenti V, Gasalla T, Elmoufti S, Elshoff JP. Safety and tolerability of adjunctive brivaracetam in children with focal seizures: Interim analysis of pooled data from two open-label trials. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2020; 25:68-76. [PMID: 31810577 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2019.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate long-term safety and tolerability of adjunctive brivaracetam (BRV) in children with epilepsy. METHODS This was an interim analysis (cut-off March 15, 2017) of pooled data from two open-label, single-arm, multicentre trials. N01263 (NCT00422422) was a 3-week trial of BRV 0.8-4 mg/kg/day in patients (1 month-<16 years) with epilepsy. Patients who completed this trial could continue into a long-term follow-up trial (N01266, NCT01364597) which also directly enrolled patients (4-<17 years) with focal seizures. After dose-escalation, patients received BRV 1-5 mg/kg/day (maximum 200 mg/day) during long-term evaluation. Data are reported for patients aged 4 to <16 years with focal seizures. RESULTS The safety set comprised 149 patients: 34 from the initial trial (26 entered long-term trial) and 115 directly enrolled into the long-term trial. At the cut-off, 90 patients were receiving BRV (total exposure: 299.4 patient-years). Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were reported by 140/149 (94.0%) patients, most commonly (≥20%) nasopharyngitis (24.8%), pharyngitis (22.1%), convulsion (21.5%), and pyrexia (20.1%). TEAEs considered drug-related by the investigator were reported by 56/149 (37.6%) patients, most commonly somnolence (6.0%). Two patients died; neither death was considered related to BRV. Mean changes from baseline in child behaviour rating scales were small; most patients remained in their baseline category. CONCLUSION In this pooled analysis of two open-label trials including long-term data, adjunctive BRV was generally well tolerated in children aged 4 to <16 years with focal seizures. These findings supported approval of BRV as a new therapy option for children aged ≥4 years with focal seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anup D Patel
- Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.
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Hussain SA, Ortendahl JD, Bentley TGK, Harmon AL, Gupta S, Begley CE, Khilfeh I, Knoth RL. The economic burden of caregiving in epilepsy: An estimate based on a survey of US caregivers. Epilepsia 2020; 61:319-329. [PMID: 31953846 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The burden of caregiving for persons with epilepsy (PWEs) has not been examined previously in the United States. We assessed the clinical impact and direct and indirect economic costs for caregivers of PWEs. METHODS An internet survey of 500 caregivers of PWEs was conducted from May to July 2015 using a combination of validated instruments and questions designed specifically for this survey. Caregivers were stratified by PWE age (adult/child) and disease severity (low: 0 vs high: 1 + seizures in the prior month). Annual self-reported direct and indirect costs were reported per caregiver and extrapolated to all US caregivers. The economic burden of caregiving for PWEs was defined as the difference between costs for caregivers and the general population. RESULTS Caregivers reported that PWEs averaged 11.4 seizures in the prior month. Eighty percent of respondents were female and the average age was 44.3. Since becoming a caregiver, many reported anxiety (52.8%), depression (41.0%), and insomnia (30.8%). Annual mean direct medical costs for caregivers of children with low vs high seizure frequency were $4344 and $10 162, respectively. Costs for caregivers of adult PWEs were $4936 and $8518. Mean indirect costs associated with caregiving for a child with low vs high seizure frequency were $20 529 and $40 137; those for caregivers of an adult were $13 981 and $28 410. The cost estimates are higher vs the general US population; annual per-person healthcare utilization costs were $2740 and productivity loss costs were $5015. When extrapolating to the US population of PWE caregivers, annual costs exceeded $62 billion vs $14 billion for the general population, resulting in a caregiver burden of nearly $48 billion. SIGNIFICANCE The clinical and economic burden of caregivers for PWE were substantial, and greatest for those caring for children with frequent seizures. The impact on caregivers should be considered when estimating the value of interventions that control epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun A Hussain
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital and David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jesse D Ortendahl
- Partnership for Health Analytic Research, LLC, Beverly Hills, California
| | - Tanya G K Bentley
- Partnership for Health Analytic Research, LLC, Beverly Hills, California
| | - Amanda L Harmon
- Partnership for Health Analytic Research, LLC, Beverly Hills, California
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Petersen M, Kristensen E, Giraldi L, Giraldi A. Sexual dysfunction and mental health in patients with multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. BMC Neurol 2020; 20:41. [PMID: 32005182 PMCID: PMC6995085 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-020-1625-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy and multiple sclerosis (MS) are two neurological diseases known to greatly influence a patient's life. The primary aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with epilepsy and MS and investigate whether there is an association between disease, sexual function, and physical and mental health. A secondary aim was to investigate whether there is a difference in sexual function between patients with MS and epilepsy. METHODS A total of 414 patients were included in this descriptive cross-sectional study. Three patient report questionnaires were used for measurements: the Changes in Sexual Function Questionnaire (CSFQ) cut-off score; the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) divided into the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS), and the Life Satisfaction-11 (LiSat-11). RESULTS Patients with MS constituted 62% (n = 258) of the participants and patients with epilepsy 38% (n = 156). The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 68% in women and 77% in men. No differences were found between patients with MS and epilepsy (p = 0.184), except for the CSFQ desire domain, as patients with epilepsy more often had a desire problem (p = 0.029). On the SF-36, patients with MS scored significantly worse on the PCS (p = 0.000). Patients with epilepsy scored significantly worse on the MCS (p = 0.002). No significant differences were found on the LiSat-11. Regression analysis with CSFQ as the dependent variable showed an association with the PCS in men and an association with both PCS and MCS in women. CONCLUSIONS In this study, the cohort of patients with MS and epilepsy had negatively affected sexual function. The only significant difference between patients with MS and epilepsy in sexual function measured by the CSFQ-14, was found in the frequency of desire, in which a larger number of patients with epilepsy reported sexual dysfunction. In the studied cohort, sexual function in women is associated with both physical and mental health, and in men with physical health. These results should be considered when caring for patients with epilepsy and MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian Petersen
- The Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark. .,Surgical Department, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark.
| | - Ellids Kristensen
- Sexological Clinic, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen & Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laura Giraldi
- Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen & Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Socioeconomic outcome and access to care in adults with epilepsy in Sweden: A nationwide cohort study. Seizure 2020; 74:71-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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Reinholdson J, Olsson I, Edelvik Tranberg A, Malmgren K. Long-term employment outcomes after epilepsy surgery in childhood. Neurology 2019; 94:e205-e216. [PMID: 31796526 PMCID: PMC6988983 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000008681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To analyze long-term employment outcomes in a population-based cohort of adults who underwent epilepsy surgery in childhood or adolescence and to compare the results to general population reference data. Methods Prospective data on epilepsy surgery procedures performed on patients <19 years of age between 1995 and 2012 were extracted from the Swedish National Epilepsy Surgery Register. Five-, 10-, 15- and 20-year follow-up data were analyzed. Patients aged ≥19 years at follow-up were eligible for inclusion. Educational attainment and employment status were analyzed in relation to seizure outcome. Education and employment outcomes of seizure-free patients with a preoperative IQ of ≥70 were compared to general population reference data. Results A total of 203 patients were included. The mean age at surgery was 13.6 years and 66% had IQ ≥70. Of these, a majority had attained at least high school education 5 years after surgery. Employment rates were 44%, 69%, 71%, and 77% at the 5-, 10-, 15-, and 20-year follow-ups, respectively. Seizure-free patients were significantly more likely to work full-time. Educational attainment and rates of full-time employment of seizure-free patients were similar to the general population. A majority of patients with IQ <70 had attended special education and were reliant on social benefits. Conclusion Long-term overall employment rates were higher compared to most previous studies on surgery in adults. Seizure-free patients with a preoperative IQ ≥70 showed rates of full-time employment similar to the general population. Further research is needed to determine whether this also applies for occupational complexity and wages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper Reinholdson
- From the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology (J.R., A.E.T., K.M.), and Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences (I.O.), Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Ingrid Olsson
- From the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology (J.R., A.E.T., K.M.), and Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences (I.O.), Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna Edelvik Tranberg
- From the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology (J.R., A.E.T., K.M.), and Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences (I.O.), Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kristina Malmgren
- From the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology (J.R., A.E.T., K.M.), and Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences (I.O.), Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Nyboe C, Fonager K, Larsen ML, Andreasen JJ, Lundbye-Christensen S, Hjortdal V. Effect of Atrial Septal Defect in Adults on Work Participation (from a Nation Wide Register-Based Follow-Up Study Regarding Work Participation and Use of Permanent Social Security Benefits). Am J Cardiol 2019; 124:1775-1779. [PMID: 31590912 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2019.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Low work participation is well known in patients with chronic disease but has not been described in patients with atrial septal defect (ASD). In this nation-wide cohort study, we report the first long-term follow-up of use of permanent social security benefits and work participation in adults with ASD. All Danes born before 1994 and diagnosed with ASD from 1959 to 2013 (n = 2,277) were identified from the Danish medical registries. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to compare the risk of receiving permanent social security benefits in the ASD patients compared with an age- and gender-matched general population cohort. Using the DREAM database, we calculated work participation score and proportion of patients working or not working at the age of 30 years. Median follow-up from ASD diagnosis was 23.4 years (range 0.2 to 59.3). ASD patients had a higher risk of receiving permanent social security benefits (hazard ratio 2.3 [95% confidence interval 2.1 to 2.6]) compared with the comparison cohort with 24% of the ASD patients receiving permanent social security benefits at the end of follow-up compared with 12% of the comparison cohort. At the age of 30 years, the proportion not working was 28% in the ASD cohort and 18% in the comparison cohort. In patients with ASD, 23% of those without a job had a psychiatric diagnosis. In conclusion, the risk of receiving permanent social security benefits was twice as high in patients with ASD and the work participation score was reduced compared with the background population.
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Magnusson C, Zelano J. High-resolution mapping of epilepsy prevalence, ambulance use, and socioeconomic deprivation in an urban area of Sweden. Epilepsia 2019; 60:2060-2067. [PMID: 31529472 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Geographic differences in epilepsy prevalence between areas of different socioeconomic standing have been demonstrated in the United Kingdom, but knowledge from other health care systems is scarce. Our objective was to compare epilepsy prevalence and emergency medical service (EMS) assignments for seizures in areas of different socioeconomic standings in the urban area of Gothenburg. METHODS Register-based study in Gothenburg (population 690 000), the second largest city in Sweden. Epilepsy cases were identified in the comprehensive national patient register in 2014-2015. EMS assignments were identified in the EMS dispatch system in 2013-2018. Socioeconomic variables were mean income and proportion of welfare recipients. RESULTS Significant correlations were seen between epilepsy prevalence and the proportion of welfare recipients (r = .49, P = .0014) and annual income per capita (r = -.42, P = .0071). There were 7907 assignments for seizures during the study years. GPS-based analysis showed that most assignments occurred in the city center. In addition, several high-density areas correlated with areas with a high proportion of inhabitants receiving welfare. Correlation analysis showed significant associations between the number of EMS assignments per capita and the proportion of welfare recipients (r = .31, P < .0001) and income (r = -.19, P < .0001). When comparing representative areas, a greater proportion of assignments was given the highest priority in high status areas compared to low status areas, both by the dispatch center and EMS clinicians on scene. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings that epilepsy prevalence and seizure frequency differ with socioeconomic status on a microgeographic level considerably strengthen the generalizability of previous observations across different health care systems. Differences in priority may reflect health utilization behavior or access to neurologic care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl Magnusson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institution of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Zelano
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Welfare consequences for people diagnosed with nonepileptic seizures: A matched nationwide study in Denmark. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 98:59-65. [PMID: 31299534 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the excess direct and indirect costs associated with nonepileptic seizures. METHODS From the Danish National Patient Registry (2011-2016), we identified 1057 people of any age with a diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNESs) and matched them with 2113 control individuals. Additionally, 239 partners of patients with PNES aged ≥18 years were identified and compared with 471 control partners. Direct costs included frequencies and costs of hospitalizations and outpatient use weighted by diagnosis-related group, and specific outpatient costs based on data from the Danish Ministry of Health. The use and costs of drugs were based on data from the Danish Medicines Agency. The frequencies of visits and hospitalizations and costs of general practice were derived from National Health Security data. Indirect costs included labor supply-based income data, and all social transfer payments were obtained from Coherent Social Statistics. RESULTS A higher percentage of people with PNES and their partners compared with respective control subjects received welfare benefits (sick pay, disability pension, home care). Those with PNES had a lower employment rate than did controls for equivalent periods up to three years before the diagnosis was made. The additional direct and indirect annual costs for those aged ≥18 years, including transfers to patients with PNES, compared with controls, were €33,697 for people with PNES and €15,121 for their partners. SIGNIFICANCE Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures have substantial socioeconomic consequences for individual patients, their partners, and society.
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Blomberg K, Brorson LO, Stenninger E, Eriksson M. Fifty-year follow-up of childhood epilepsy - Social, psychometric, and occupational outcome. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 96:224-228. [PMID: 31176891 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to explore and describe the experience of a childhood diagnosis of epilepsy and its consequences for the experiences of daily life over a span of 50 years. METHODS A descriptive mixed method design was chosen. Data were collected through a survey returned by 86 persons (59% response rate) who had received diagnoses of epilepsy as children. The survey contained questions about education, vocation, family status, and included the 14-item Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD). Additionally, interviews (n = 11) were conducted and analyzed by interpretative description. RESULTS Few persons reported that the childhood diagnosis of epilepsy had affected their choice of education, work, or leisure activities. However, 20% reported that the diagnosis had caused problems in school or at work and had restricted their activities of daily living. Sixty-six percent of the participants were married, and 68% had children; of those, 12 (20%) reported that one or more of the children had also had seizures. Almost all reported no anxiety (82%) and no depression (90%). The results of the interviews revealed a balancing act between 'Controlling and managing the situation' and 'Not being restricted by the condition'. SIGNIFICANCE This long-term follow-up over a 50-year life-span of persons who received childhood diagnoses of epilepsy suggests that the consequences for education, work, and leisure activities were few. Most of the participants had developed strategies to manage their situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Blomberg
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Lars-Olov Brorson
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Erik Stenninger
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Mats Eriksson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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Management of epilepsy in women. Lancet Neurol 2019; 18:481-491. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(18)30495-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Parfenova EV, Rider FK, Gersamia AG, Yakovlev AA, Guekht AB. [Epilepsy as a social problem]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2019; 118:77-85. [PMID: 30335077 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro201811809177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The article considers the problem of social restrictions caused by epilepsy. Information on historical aspects and discrimination of patients with epilepsy is presented. The authors consider factors influencing marital status of patients in different countries and present information on the differences in medical restrictions to driving in different countries and in the Russian Federation. Employment status of patients with epilepsy, restrictions related to objective reasons and attitudes of patients and others toward epilepsy are elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- E V Parfenova
- Solovyov Moscow Research and Practical Psychoneurological Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - F K Rider
- Solovyov Moscow Research and Practical Psychoneurological Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - A G Gersamia
- Solovyov Moscow Research and Practical Psychoneurological Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Yakovlev
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of RAS, Moscow, Russia
| | - A B Guekht
- Solovyov Moscow Research and Practical Psychoneurological Center, Moscow, Russia; Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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Puka K, Tavares TP, Speechley KN. Social outcomes for adults with a history of childhood-onset epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 92:297-305. [PMID: 30731296 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This review aimed to describe social outcomes in adulthood for people with a history of childhood-onset epilepsy and identify factors associated with these outcomes; focused on educational attainment, employment, income/financial status, independence/living arrangement, romantic relationships, parenthood, and friendships. METHODS A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO was conducted, as well as forward and backward citation tracking. A total of 45 articles met inclusion criteria. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted, and subgroup analyses evaluated outcomes for people with epilepsy (PWE) with good prognosis (e.g., normal intelligence, 'epilepsy-only') and poor prognosis (e.g., intellectual disability, Dravet syndrome), and those who underwent epilepsy surgery in childhood. RESULTS Among all PWE, 73% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 64-82%) completed secondary school education, 63% (95%CI: 56-70%) were employed; 74% (95%CI: 68-81%) did not receive governmental financial assistance; 32% (95%CI: 25-39%) were in romantic relationships; 34% (95%CI: 24-45%) lived independently; 21% (95%CI:12-33%) had children, and 79% (95%CI: 71-87%) had close friend(s). People with epilepsy often fared worse relative to healthy controls. Among PWE with a good prognosis, a comparable number of studies reported similar/better outcomes relative to controls as reported poorer outcomes. The most consistent predictor of poorer outcomes was the presence of cognitive problems; results of studies evaluating seizure control were equivocal. CONCLUSION People with epilepsy with a good prognosis may show similar social outcomes as controls, though robust conclusions are difficult to make given the extant literature. Seizure control does not guarantee better outcomes. There is a need for more studies evaluating prognostic factors and studies with control groups to facilitate appropriate comparisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klajdi Puka
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Tamara P Tavares
- Department of Neuroscience, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kathy N Speechley
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Roberts MH, Takeda MY, Kindilien S, Barqawi YK, Borrego ME. Assessment of components included in published societal perspective or QALY outcome economic analyses for antiepileptic drug treatment in chronic epilepsy. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2018; 18:487-503. [PMID: 29911955 PMCID: PMC6564682 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2018.1489243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antiepileptic drug (AED) treatments seek to control seizures with minimal or no adverse effects, effects which can substantially impact costs and outcomes for patients, caregivers, and third party payers. The First and Second Panel on Cost-Effectiveness in Health and Medicine recommend inclusion of a societal reference case, even in studies conducted from a healthcare sector perspective, for comparability of findings across studies. Cost and outcome evaluation components include direct medical, non-direct medical-related (e.g. patient-time and transportation costs for treatment) and non-healthcare sectors (e.g. lost productivity). AREAS COVERED Guided by Second Panel recommendations, this review developed an overall impact inventory and detailed adverse effect impact inventory to assess the scope and methods in published economic evaluations of AED treatments for adults with chronic epilepsy. Societal perspective evaluations or evaluations that utilized quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) as an outcome were reviewed. The majority of reviewed articles were healthcare sector perspective studies, methods for estimating QALYs varied widely, and a minority considered specific AED treatment adverse effects. EXPERT COMMENTARY Only considering a healthcare sector perspective fails to provide full information for patients on AED treatments. Using an impact inventory to guide study scope and design will facilitate full reporting of costs and benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa H Roberts
- a Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy , University of New Mexico , Albuquerque , USA
| | - Mikiko Y Takeda
- a Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy , University of New Mexico , Albuquerque , USA
| | - Shannon Kindilien
- a Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy , University of New Mexico , Albuquerque , USA
| | - Yazan K Barqawi
- a Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy , University of New Mexico , Albuquerque , USA
| | - Matthew E Borrego
- a Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy , University of New Mexico , Albuquerque , USA
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Elliott J, McCoy B, Clifford T, Wells GA, Coyle D. Economic Evaluation of Stiripentol for Dravet Syndrome: A Cost-Utility Analysis. PHARMACOECONOMICS 2018; 36:1253-1261. [PMID: 29761351 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-018-0669-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dravet syndrome is a catastrophic form of pediatric treatment-resistant epilepsy with few effective treatment options. Stiripentol is approved for use in Canada for treatment of Dravet syndrome, but the associated long-term costs and benefits have not been well-studied and its cost effectiveness is unclear. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost effectiveness of stiripentol as an adjunctive treatment to clobazam and valproate for treatment of Dravet syndrome from the perspective of the Canadian public healthcare payer. METHODS A cost-utility analysis was performed to estimate the costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) associated with adjunctive stiripentol treatment compared with clobazam and valproate alone in children with Dravet syndrome. Transition probabilities, drug efficacy, utility weights, and costs were obtained from a review of the literature. Probabilistic analyses were conducted using a Markov model with health states related to seizure frequency. A 10-year horizon was used. The incremental cost per QALY gained (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio [ICER]) for adjunctive use of stiripentol was calculated, and assumptions were explored in scenario analyses. All costs are expressed in 2017 Canadian dollars ($Can). RESULTS Compared with clobazam and valproate alone, the adjunctive use of stiripentol is associated with an ICER of $Can151,310. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of $Can50,000, the probability that stiripentol was the optimal treatment was 5.2%. The cost of stiripentol would need to be reduced by 61.4% for stiripentol to be cost effective. CONCLUSION From the perspective of the Canadian public healthcare payer, stiripentol is not cost effective at its current price at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $Can50,000. Funding stiripentol will be associated with important opportunity costs that bear consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Elliott
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Bláthnaid McCoy
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tammy Clifford
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- CADTH, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - George A Wells
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Cardiovascular Research Methods Centre, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Doug Coyle
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Long-term health and socioeconomic consequences of childhood and adolescent onset of meningococcal meningitis. Eur J Pediatr 2018; 177:1309-1315. [PMID: 29923041 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-018-3192-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
We estimated the long-term socioeconomic consequences and health care costs of Neisseria meningitidis meningitis (NM). The prospective cohort study included Danish individuals with onset of NM in childhood and adolescence, diagnosed between 1980 and 2009. Health care costs and socioeconomic data were obtained from nationwide administrative and health registers. Two thousand nine hundred two patients were compared with 11,610 controls matched for age, gender, and other sociodemographic characteristics. In the follow-up analysis at the age of 30 years, 1028 patients were compared with 4452 controls. We found that (1) NM caused increased mortality at disease onset, but after adequate treatment, the mortality rate was similar to that of the general population; (2) neurological and eye diseases were more frequently observed in patients; (3) patients had significantly lower grade-point averages; (4) patients had lower income even when transfer payments were taken into account; and (5) patients' initial health care costs were elevated.Conclusion: NM has significant influence on mortality, morbidity, education, and income. We suggest that the management of patients with previous meningococcal meningitis should focus on early educational and social interventions to improve social and health outcomes. What is known: • Meningococcal meningitis is a severe infectious disease affecting children and adolescents with high rates of mortality and complications. What is new: • Meningococcal meningitis causes increased mortality at disease onset, but after adequate treatment the mortality rate is similar to that of the general population. • Meningococcal meningitis in childhood and adolescence has a major long-term effect on morbidity, health care costs, education, employment, and income.
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Lekoubou A, Bishu KG, Ovbiagele B. The direct cost of epilepsy in children: Evidence from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, 2003-2014. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 83:103-107. [PMID: 29684821 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy is frequent in children and often requires complex healthcare interventions. There is a paucity of recent and detailed healthcare expenditures among children with epilepsy in the United States (US). METHODS Data on children (aged ≤17years) from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey-Household Component (MEPS-HC) from 2003 to 2014 were analyzed. Unadjusted overall and specific cost components were compared between children with epilepsy and those without epilepsy. We used a two-part model with gamma distribution and log link for the estimation of independent incremental cost incurred by epilepsy in children. Unadjusted and adjusted mean expenditures and aggregate burden of epilepsy were estimated. RESULTS Out of 54,393,387 (weighted) US children, 457,873 (0.84%) had epilepsy. Children with epilepsy had nearly six times higher healthcare expenditure than those without epilepsy ($2024 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1917-2130] vs. $12,577 [95% CI: 7922-17,231]). Unadjusted inpatient expenditure for epilepsy ($4418 [95% CI: 1550-7285) was ten times higher than that for children without epilepsy, representing more than one-third of unadjusted total direct cost. The adjusted difference in medical expenditure between children with and those without epilepsy was $8317 (95% CI: 3701-13,363). The annual unadjusted aggregate cost of epilepsy in children was approximately $5.8 billion. The annual adjusted difference in cost of epilepsy between children with and those without epilepsy was $3.8 billion. CONCLUSION Unadjusted and adjusted medical expenditure among children with epilepsy is high. The high expenditure is essentially driven not only by inpatient expenditure but also by home healthcare, outpatient, and medication healthcare expenditures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Lekoubou
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Kinfe G Bishu
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Section of Health Systems Research and Policy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Bruce Ovbiagele
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Lee JW. Real-Time Non-EEG Convulsive Seizure Detection Devices: They Work; Now What? Epilepsy Curr 2018; 18:164-166. [PMID: 29950939 PMCID: PMC6017692 DOI: 10.5698/1535-7597.18.3.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Adherence to antiepileptic drugs in adolescents with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 80:307-311. [PMID: 29429909 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aims of the current study were to identify patterns and predictors of adherence in adolescents with epilepsy over one year, as well as its impact on seizures and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). METHODS Forty-eight adolescents with epilepsy (Mage=14.8+1.5, 69% female, 73% White: NonHispanic) and their caregivers completed questionnaires assessing demographics, epilepsy knowledge, side effects, adherence barriers, family functioning, and HRQOL at quarterly clinic visits over one year. Adherence was monitored electronically via MEMS TrackCaps. Seizures were determined via chart review. RESULTS Baseline adherence was 86.05% and significantly decreased over 12months (b=-2.07, p<0.001). Higher adherence was predicted by higher socioeconomic status (SES) (b=0.04, p<0.05), more side effects (b=0.06, p<0.01), fewer caregiver-reported adherence barriers (b=0.18, p<0.05), and lower family conflict (b=-0.19, p<0.05). Change in adherence over 12months did not significantly predict HRQOL or seizures. CONCLUSIONS This is the first longitudinal study of objective adherence in adolescents with epilepsy. Given adolescence is a period of vulnerability during development, including declining adherence, caregivers are encouraged to continue collaborating with their adolescents around epilepsy management. Adherence barriers represent an ideal target for intervention and can be implemented in the clinic by frontline providers. Multidisciplinary care can address low SES (social work, financial advocates) and family conflict (psychologists, therapists) in patients with the ultimate goal of optimizing adherence and health outcomes.
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Espinosa-Jovel C, Toledano R, Aledo-Serrano Á, García-Morales I, Gil-Nagel A. Epidemiological profile of epilepsy in low income populations. Seizure 2018; 56:67-72. [PMID: 29453113 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a global disease with an unequal distribution. About 80% of the affected individuals reside in low and middle income countries. The incidence and prevalence of epilepsy in low income populations is higher than in the rest of the world, this is partly explained by some risk factors such as head trauma, perinatal injury and CNS infections, which are more common in poor regions, especially in rural areas. Epilepsy is considered a treatable condition with high rates of therapeutic response. About three fourths of patients achieve control of the disease with the use of antiepileptic drugs, however, despite this benign prognosis, over 75% of patients from low income populations do not receive treatment at all. The cultural beliefs, the inequity in the distribution of public health services, the inadequate supply of antiepileptic drugs, the low number of neurologists involved in the attention of epilepsy, and the social stigma, are the main reasons that increase the treatment gap and the burden of disease in low income populations with epilepsy. We conducted a narrative review regarding the epidemiology of epilepsy in low income populations by searching PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar and thoroughly examining relevant bibliographies. This review aims to summarize the main epidemiological aspects of epilepsy in LMIC, emphasizing on incidence, prevalence, socio-demographic profile, TG, social stigma and QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Espinosa-Jovel
- Hospital Occidente de Kennedy, Servicio de Neurología, Bogotá, Colombia; Hospital Ruber Internacional, Servicio de Neurología, Programa de Epilepsia, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rafael Toledano
- Hospital Ruber Internacional, Servicio de Neurología, Programa de Epilepsia, Madrid, Spain; Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Servicio de Neurología, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Aledo-Serrano
- Hospital Ruber Internacional, Servicio de Neurología, Programa de Epilepsia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene García-Morales
- Hospital Ruber Internacional, Servicio de Neurología, Programa de Epilepsia, Madrid, Spain; Hospital Universitario Clínico San Carlos, Servicio de Neurología, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Gil-Nagel
- Hospital Ruber Internacional, Servicio de Neurología, Programa de Epilepsia, Madrid, Spain
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Examining health service utilization, hospital treatment cost, and mortality of individuals with epilepsy and status epilepticus in New South Wales, Australia 2012-2016. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 79:9-16. [PMID: 29223007 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the health service utilization and hospital treatment cost of individuals with epilepsy by age group, mortality within 30days, and surgical outcomes for individuals with refractory epilepsy in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. A retrospective examination of linked hospitalization and mortality data for individuals hospitalized with a diagnosis of epilepsy during 2012-2016. Hospitalized incidence rates per 1000 population were calculated, and negative binomial regression was used to examine temporal trends. Mortality within 30days of hospitalization was identified, along with cause of death. There were 44,722 hospitalizations during the five-year period, with a hospitalization rate of 85.6 per 1000 population (95% confidence interval (CI): 84.7-86.4). Total hospital treatment costs were AUD$402.9 million. Children aged ≤17years accounted for 32.0% of hospitalizations. Just over half to two-thirds of hospitalizations for each age group were for a principal diagnosis of epilepsy, with 2976 hospitalizations of individuals for status epilepticus. The overall mean hospital length of stay (LOS) for epilepsy hospitalizations was 5.1days (standard deviation (SD)=9.0). Thirty-day mortality was highest for individuals aged ≥65years (6.7%), and epilepsy was identified as the underlying cause of death for 18.2% of deaths. This research has provided insight into the healthcare utilization profiles of individuals with epilepsy at different ages. Epilepsy hospitalizations constitute a substantial cost to the healthcare system, and better overall management of seizures and comorbid conditions is likely to lead to a reduction in the need for hospitalization.
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Mahendran M, Speechley KN, Widjaja E. Systematic review of unmet healthcare needs in patients with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2017; 75:102-109. [PMID: 28843210 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with epilepsy (PWE) are more likely to have unmet healthcare needs than the general population. This systematic review assessed the reasons for unmet needs in PWE. METHODS Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched using keywords relating to unmet healthcare needs, treatment barriers, and access to care. The search included all countries, adult and pediatric populations, survey and qualitative studies, but excluded non-English articles and articles published before 2001. Reasons for unmet needs were extracted. RESULTS Nineteen survey and 22 qualitative studies were included. Three survey and five qualitative studies excluded patients with comorbidities. There were twice as many studies on unmet mental healthcare needs than unmet physical care needs in PWE. Poor availability of health services, accessibility issues, and lack of health information contributed to unmet needs in both Western and developing countries. Lack of health services, long wait lists, uncoordinated care, and difficulty getting needed health information were prevalent in the United States (US) as well as countries with a universal healthcare system. However, unmet needs due to costs of care were reported more commonly in studies from the US. SIGNIFICANCE This systematic review identified reasons for unmet needs in PWE across different countries, which will inform specific interventions required to address these unmet needs. Unmet needs may have been underestimated due to exclusion of PWE with comorbidities in some studies. Additional studies are needed to understand the contribution of comorbidities on unmet needs and their interaction with caregiver and family factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayuri Mahendran
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Kresge Building, Room K201, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Kathy N Speechley
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Kresge Building, Room K201, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Children's Hospital, 800 Commissioners Road East, Rm B1-437, London, Ontario N6A 5W9, Canada
| | - Elysa Widjaja
- Division of Neurology, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada; Diagnostic Imaging, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada.
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