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Panahi P, Zafardoust H, Mirzohreh ST, Khamnian Z, Alizadeh M. The study of mental health status of people with epilepsy during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis study. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 157:109834. [PMID: 38852496 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109834] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of people with epilepsy (PWE) in various ways. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess the mental health status and prevalence of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, stress, and psychological distress among PWE. Furthermore, this study evaluates changes in sleep patterns and presence of sleep disturbances among them. The findings of this systematic review can help health organizations, policymakers, and health workers to better prepare and respond to future health crises for PWE and other chronic disease patients. METHOD This systematic review was prepared using PRISMA reporting guidelines. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases for studies that reported data on mental health parameters including depression, anxiety, stress, psychological distress, quality of life, and sleep quality, during the pandemic until May 2023. The analytical procedures were executed through the utilization of Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software. RESULTS In our study, a total of 61 carefully selected studies were analyzed, yielding valuable insights into the prevalence and impact of various mental health indicators among PWE. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of PWE experienced distressing psychological symptoms, with depression being reported by 34% of participants. Additionally, anxiety was prevalent among 43% of individuals, while stress symptoms were reported by 49% of respondents. Moreover, a substantial portion of PWE, approximately 38%, reported experiencing poor sleep quality, further underscoring the multifaceted nature of the challenges faced by this population. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and comprehensive support systems to address the mental health concerns and sleep disturbances faced by individuals living with epilepsy. CONCLUSION The findings revealed that a substantial number of PWE experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and poor sleep quality. These results emphasize the importance of considering mental health and sleep assessments as integral components of care for individuals with epilepsy. The study underscores the need for further research and targeted interventions to address the mental health burden faced by this population. By prioritizing and addressing these challenges, healthcare providers can enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for individuals living with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zhila Khamnian
- Department of Community Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahasti Alizadeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
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Leng X, Hu G, Wang X, Zhang Y, Guo Y, Song C, Yang F, Jiang W, Wang Y, Wang X. Risk of COVID-19 infection and seizure exacerbation among patients with epilepsy during the peak of Omicron wave. Epilepsia Open 2024. [PMID: 38795316 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Existing data regarding the risk of COVID-19 infection and its effects on seizure control in patients with epilepsy (PWE) are inconclusive. Our research aims to investigate the PWE who are susceptible to COVID-19 and what factors contribute to seizure exacerbation. METHODS From Dec 28, 2022 to Feb 19, 2023, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey among adult PWE was conducted. The demographics, epilepsy-related information, COVID-19-related variables, and seizure outcomes after COVID-19 infection were collected. Multivariate logistic analyses were performed to determine the risk factors associated with COVID-19 infection and exacerbated seizures. RESULTS Of 1557 PWE, 829 (53.2%) were infected with COVID-19 and 136 (16.4%) developed seizure exacerbation after COVID-19 infection. Overweight/obesity (OR 1.372, 95% CI 1.075-1.753, p = 0.011), immunocompromised (OR 3.301, 95% CI 1.093-9.974, p = 0.031), active epilepsy (OR 1.700, 95% CI 1.378-2.097, p < 0.001), and antiseizure medication (ASM) polytherapy (OR 1.314, 95% CI 1.065-1.621, p = 0.011) were associated with COVID-19 infection. Active epilepsy (OR 4.696, 95% CI 2.568-8.586, p < 0.001) and fever-associated seizures (OR 4.298, 95%CI 2.659-6.946, p < 0.001) were associated with seizure exacerbation. SIGNIFICANCE PWE with overweight/obesity, immunocompromised, active epilepsy, and ASM polytherapy were at higher risk of COVID-19 infection. Once infected with COVID-19, seizures were exacerbated in PWE with active epilepsy and fever-associated seizures. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Patients with epilepsy (PWE) do not appear to be more susceptible to COVID-19 infection than general population. Once infected with COVID-19, 16.4% of PWE had seizure exacerbation. The PWE who have experienced seizures within the past 12 months before infection tend to contract COVID-19 more often, and are more likely to experience seizure exacerbations following COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Leng
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Gengyao Hu
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yingchi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yaomin Guo
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Changgeng Song
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wen Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaomu Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Strafford H, Hollinghurst J, Lacey AS, Akbari A, Watkins A, Paterson J, Jennings D, Lyons RA, Powell HR, Kerr MP, Chin RF, Pickrell WO. Health care utilization and mortality for people with epilepsy during COVID-19: A population study. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1394-1405. [PMID: 38441332 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to characterize changes in health care utilization and mortality for people with epilepsy (PWE) during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We performed a retrospective study using linked, individual-level, population-scale anonymized health data from the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage databank. We identified PWE living in Wales during the study "pandemic period" (January 1, 2020-June 30, 2021) and during a "prepandemic" period (January 1, 2016-December 31, 2019). We compared prepandemic health care utilization, status epilepticus, and mortality rates with corresponding pandemic rates for PWE and people without epilepsy (PWOE). We performed subgroup analyses on children (<18 years old), older people (>65 years old), those with intellectual disability, and those living in the most deprived areas. We used Poisson models to calculate adjusted rate ratios (RRs). RESULTS We identified 27 279 PWE who had significantly higher rates of hospital (50.3 visits/1000 patient months), emergency department (55.7), and outpatient attendance (172.4) when compared to PWOE (corresponding figures: 25.7, 25.2, and 87.0) in the prepandemic period. Hospital and epilepsy-related hospital admissions, and emergency department and outpatient attendances all reduced significantly for PWE (and all subgroups) during the pandemic period. RRs [95% confidence intervals (CIs)] for pandemic versus prepandemic periods were .70 [.69-.72], .77 [.73-.81], .78 [.77-.79], and .80 [.79-.81]. The corresponding rates also reduced for PWOE. New epilepsy diagnosis rates decreased during the pandemic compared with the prepandemic period (2.3/100 000/month cf. 3.1/100 000/month, RR = .73, 95% CI = .68-.78). Both all-cause deaths and deaths with epilepsy recorded on the death certificate increased for PWE during the pandemic (RR = 1.07, 95% CI = .997-1.145 and RR = 2.44, 95% CI = 2.12-2.81). When removing COVID deaths, RRs were .88 (95% CI = .81-.95) and 1.29 (95% CI = 1.08-1.53). Status epilepticus rates did not change significantly during the pandemic (RR = .95, 95% CI = .78-1.15). SIGNIFICANCE All-cause non-COVID deaths did not increase but non-COVID deaths associated with epilepsy did increase for PWE during the COVID-19 pandemic. The longer term effects of the decrease in new epilepsy diagnoses and health care utilization and increase in deaths associated with epilepsy need further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huw Strafford
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Joe Hollinghurst
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Arron S Lacey
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Ashley Akbari
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Alan Watkins
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | | | | | - Ronan A Lyons
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - H Robert Powell
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Morriston Hospital, Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, UK
| | - Michael P Kerr
- Institute of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Richard F Chin
- Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences and Department of Child Life and Health, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, UK
| | - William O Pickrell
- Swansea University Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Morriston Hospital, Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, UK
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Strafford H, Hollinghurst J, Lacey AS, Akbari A, Watkins A, Paterson J, Jennings D, Lyons RA, Powell HR, Kerr MP, Chin RF, Pickrell WO. Epilepsy and the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization and death: A population study. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1383-1393. [PMID: 38441374 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE People with epilepsy (PWE) may be at an increased risk of severe COVID-19. It is important to characterize this risk to inform PWE and for future health and care planning. We assessed whether PWE were at higher risk of being hospitalized with, or dying from, COVID-19. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study using linked, population-scale, anonymized electronic health records from the SAIL (Secure Anonymised Information Linkage) databank. This includes hospital admission and demographic data for the complete Welsh population (3.1 million) and primary care records for 86% of the population. We identified 27 279 PWE living in Wales during the study period (March 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). Controls were identified using exact 5:1 matching (sex, age, and socioeconomic status). We defined COVID-19 deaths as having International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes for COVID-19 on death certificates or occurring within 28 days of a positive SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. COVID-19 hospitalizations were defined as having a COVID-19 ICD-10 code for the reason for admission or occurring within 28 days of a positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test. We recorded COVID-19 vaccinations and comorbidities known to increase the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization and death. We used Cox proportional hazard models to calculate hazard ratios. RESULTS There were 158 (.58%) COVID-19 deaths and 933 (3.4%) COVID-19 hospitalizations in PWE, and 370 (.27%) deaths and 1871 (1.4%) hospitalizations in controls. Hazard ratios for COVID-19 death and hospitalization in PWE compared to controls were 2.15 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.78-2.59) and 2.15 (95% CI = 1.94-2.37), respectively. Adjusted hazard ratios (adjusted for comorbidities) for death and hospitalization were 1.32 (95% CI = 1.08-1.62) and 1.60 (95% CI = 1.44-1.78). SIGNIFICANCE PWE are at increased risk of being hospitalized with, and dying from, COVID-19 when compared to age-, sex-, and deprivation-matched controls, even when adjusting for comorbidities. This may have implications for prioritizing future COVID-19 treatments and vaccinations for PWE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huw Strafford
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Joe Hollinghurst
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Arron S Lacey
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Ashley Akbari
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Alan Watkins
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | | | | | - Ronan A Lyons
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - H Robert Powell
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Morriston Hospital, Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, UK
| | - Michael P Kerr
- Institute of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Richard F Chin
- Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences and Department of Child Life and Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, UK
| | - William O Pickrell
- Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Morriston Hospital, Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, UK
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Bassa B, Hahner F, Braun S, Meyding-Lamadé U. [Telemedicine and international projects: from Asia to Africa: chances for the future?]. DER NERVENARZT 2024; 95:236-241. [PMID: 38240820 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-023-01605-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Although the morbidity and mortality of neurological diseases in many Asian and African countries is high and are predicted to increase even further in the coming decades, in many areas there is a shortage of medical personnel and high-quality treatment options. This shortage, together with a frequently insufficient healthcare infrastructure, limits the access of many patients to medical treatment. The possibilities of telemedicine are multifarious. It provides new, so far unused possibilities in the diagnostics and treatment of neurological diseases, totally independent of geographical boundaries. In the future it could also be used for the education and training of physicians and medical personnel and to close the existing gaps in healthcare, especially in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Bassa
- Klinik für Neurologie, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Steinbacher Hohl 2-26, 60488, Frankfurt am Main, Deutschland.
| | - F Hahner
- Klinik für Neurologie, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Steinbacher Hohl 2-26, 60488, Frankfurt am Main, Deutschland
| | - S Braun
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Sambia
| | - U Meyding-Lamadé
- Klinik für Neurologie, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Steinbacher Hohl 2-26, 60488, Frankfurt am Main, Deutschland
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Mc Carthy L, Mathew B, Blank LJ, Van Hyfte G, Gotlieb E, Goldstein J, Agarwal P, Kwon CS, Singh A, Fields M, Marcuse L, Yoo JY, Sivarak E, Gururangan K, Navis A, Jetté N. Health care access, psychosocial outcomes and mental health in adults living with epilepsy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 151:109617. [PMID: 38219607 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE People living with epilepsy (PLWE) have a higher prevalence of mental health comorbidities and poorer psychosocial outcomes compared to the general population. The aim of this study was to examine psychosocial outcomes, mental health, healthcare accessibility, and seizure burden in PLWE during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of adults with epilepsy treated in an urban multicenter health system from 2021 to 2022. A standardized questionnaire assessed for COVID-19 history, comorbidities, access to antiseizure medications (ASMs) and neurological care, seizure burden, and psychosocial outcomes (e.g., employment, social and financial support). The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) were administered to evaluate for depression and anxiety. Frequency and proportions for categorical variables and median and interquartile ranges for continuous variables were calculated. RESULTS Fifty-five PLWE participated (95 % response rate). Median age was 40 years (IQR 31.5-66.5), 61.8 % were women, 47.3 % had a bachelor's degree or higher and 29.1 % each had Medicaid and Medicare insurance. Race (from highest to lowest %) was: 32.7 % White, 20 % Black, 20 % Latinx, 14.5 % Asian, and 12.7 % selected "other" or "prefer not to say." COVID-19 had been diagnosed in 21.8 % of participants. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were self-reported by 43.6 % and 34.5 % of patients, respectively, with many describing this symptom as new post-pandemic (37.5 % and 31.6 %, respectively). Using validated scales, 52.7 % had depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 5) with 30.9 % having moderate/severe depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 10), while 29.1 % had probable generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7 score ≥ 8). Seizure burden increased in 21.8 % of participants, while 20 % reported fewer seizures and 29.1 % were seizure free since the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic impacts of the pandemic included job loss (25 % amongst those employed at onset of pandemic), new or worsened financial difficulties (40 %), and new or worsened social support issues (30.9 %). Of all participants, 18.2 % reported difficulties accessing ASMs and 25.5 % cancelled visits, but of those with cancelled visits, 78.6 % had their appointments rescheduled as a telehealth visit. CONCLUSION Our cohort of PLWE experienced some challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic including poorer mental health and financial and employment-related stressors. Encouragingly, healthcare access was relatively spared during the COVID-19 crisis, with some patients even reporting a reduction in seizure burden. However, PLWE require ongoing psychosocial support with particular attention to decompensation of mental health and social stressors that may be exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Mc Carthy
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - B Mathew
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - L J Blank
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - G Van Hyfte
- Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - E Gotlieb
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - J Goldstein
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - P Agarwal
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - C S Kwon
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - A Singh
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - M Fields
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - L Marcuse
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - J Y Yoo
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - E Sivarak
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - K Gururangan
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - A Navis
- Department of Neurology, Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - N Jetté
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Calgary Zone, Alberta Health Services, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada.
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Vargas ME, Gershon AS, Pugliese M, Gotfrit RJ, Manuel D, Sadatsafavi M, Stukel TA, To T, Kendall CE, Thavorn K, Robillard R, Kendzerska T. Pandemic Effect on Healthcare Use and Death in Adults with Epilepsy: A Population Study. Can J Neurol Sci 2023:1-11. [PMID: 38115804 DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2023.316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We conducted a population-based study using Ontario health administrative data to describe trends in healthcare utilization and mortality in adults with epilepsy during the first pandemic year (March 2020-March 2021) compared to historical data (2016-2019). We also investigated if changes in outpatient visits and diagnostic testing during the first pandemic year were associated with increased risk for hospitalizations, emergency department (ED) visits, or death. METHODS Projected monthly visit rates (per 100,000 people) for outpatient visits, electroencephalography, magnetic resonance, computed tomography, all-cause ED visits, hospitalizations, and mortality were calculated based on historical data by fitting monthly time series autoregressive integrated moving-average models. Two-way interactions were calculated using Quasi-Poisson models. RESULTS In adults with epilepsy during the first quarter of the pandemic, we demonstrated a reduction in all-cause outpatient visits, diagnostic testing, ED visits and hospitalizations, and a temporary increase in mortality (observed rates of 355.8 vs projected 308.8, 95% CI: 276.3-345.1). By the end of the year, outpatient visits increased (85,535.4 vs 76,620.6, 95% CI: 71,546.9-82,059.4), and most of the diagnostic test rates returned to the projected. The increase in the rate of all-cause mortality during the pandemic, compared to pre-pandemic, was greater during months with the lower frequency of diagnostic tests than months with higher frequency (interaction p-values <.0001). CONCLUSION We described the impact of the pandemic on healthcare utilization and mortality in adults with epilepsy during the first year. We demonstrated that access to relevant diagnostic testing is likely important for this population while planning restrictions on non-urgent health services.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea S Gershon
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Research Institute, The Hospital of Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Pugliese
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan Jason Gotfrit
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Douglas Manuel
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohsen Sadatsafavi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Respiratory Evaluation Sciences Program, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Therese A Stukel
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Teresa To
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Research Institute, The Hospital of Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Claire E Kendall
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kednapa Thavorn
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Tetyana Kendzerska
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- ICES, Ottawa, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Wanigasinghe J, Thisarani Weeraratne C, Niroshika Dolapihilla B, Mahen Elapatha D. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on caregivers of persons with epilepsy - A systematic review. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 149:109516. [PMID: 37952417 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109516] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on caregivers of persons with epilepsy. METHODS This systematic literature review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting in Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The PECO (Patient, Exposure, Comparison, Outcome) framework criteria were as follows: caregivers of persons with epilepsy; exposed to the COVID-19 pandemic; and outcomes, evaluated under 4 domains- Difficulties faced by caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic, physical, emotional and behavioural impacts, diagnosed health conditions, and impact on clinical management and follow-up). Literature was searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Medline, and Cochrane Library Databases. Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS) was used to assess the methodological quality of studies. RESULTS Data were extracted from 21 eligible articles from 199 and included 5810 caregivers of persons with epilepsy. In the domain of difficulties faced by caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the most significant effect was related to difficulties in obtaining and affording anti-seizure medications. Appointment cancellations also affected most caregivers (4/7 studies). Seizure exacerbation was not a major concern to them. Anxiety, reported by most caregivers in 5/7 studies, depression in 2/5 studies, stress by majority of caregivers in 4/6 studies, and increased substance use in one study were other significant bad experiences. Social isolation increased for the majority in 2/7 studies. Financial difficulties were described in two studies. Under caregivers' health conditions, there was only one study to review. Emotional issues affected majority in 3/7 studies, physical issues in 2/4 studies, and worsened behavior in one. With regards to clinical management and follow-up, most caregivers (4/5 studies) adopted self-management strategies, but 3/8 studies reported difficulties in accessing medications and healthcare services. Additionally, 4/8 studies highlighted communication and coordination difficulties with healthcare providers. Caregivers' attitude towards telemedicine varied across studies. SIGNIFICANCE COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on caregivers of persons with epilepsy, affecting their emotional, physical, and behavioral health. It limited their access to healthcare and impacted financial stability. Caregivers of persons with epilepsy need comprehensive support and resources during crisis situations.
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Rider F, Hauser WA, Yakovlev A, Shpak A, Guekht A. Incidence, severity and outcomes of COVID-19 in age and gender matched adults with and without epilepsy in Moscow: A historical cohort study. Seizure 2023; 112:32-39. [PMID: 37741151 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that PWE have an increased risk to acquire COVID-19. This was a historical cohort study to determine COVID-19 incidence, severity, mortality and risk factors in adults with active epilepsy (PWE) compared to residents of Moscow without epilepsy matched by age, gender, and region of residence - Moscow Community Comparisons (MCC). METHODS Subjects were derived from a cohort of adult PWE and a cohort of age- and gender-matched population-based MCC without epilepsy identified in 2018. Incidence of COVID-19 was compared in each cohort from 01.03.2020 through 28.02.21. Influence of age, gender, comorbidities, and for the PWE cohort, epilepsy type, seizure frequency, and number/class of antiseizure medications was evaluated using Pearson's chi-squared test and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS We found 887 COVID-19 positive people in the two cohorts: 156 in PWE (51.8 ± 19.7 years) and 731 in MCC (52.0 ± 17.3 years,). COVID-19 incidence was lower in PWE: 13.8 % versus 18.7 % in MCC (p = 0.0002). In PWE no specific epilepsy related variables influenced incidence. Despite no difference in severity distribution in PWE versus MCC, hospitalization rate (37.6 % versus 25.5 %, p = 0.002), disease duration (57.1 % versus 47.1, p = 0.023), and mortality (10.9% versus 4.2 %, p = 0.0009) were significantly higher in PWE. Age and number of comorbidities significantly influenced COVID-19 incidence, severity, duration, and outcomes in both cohorts. SIGNIFICANCE Incidence of COVID-19 in PWE in Moscow was significantly lower compared to MCC. Age and comorbidities were strongly associated with severity, duration and outcomes of COVID-19 for all infected persons. Higher mortality in PWE may be explained by a higher number of comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Rider
- Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russian Federation.
| | - W Allen Hauser
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Alexander Yakovlev
- Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russian Federation; Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Alexander Shpak
- Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russian Federation; The S. Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alla Guekht
- Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russian Federation; Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
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10
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Doron A, Eviatar-Ribak T, Vituri A, Shahar S, Fahoum F, Goldstein L. The COVID-19 pfizer BioNTech mRNA vaccine and the frequency of seizures. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2023; 233:107952. [PMID: 37690190 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2023.107952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A nationwide vaccination operation against Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) using the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine commenced in Israel in December 2020. People older than 60 were prioritized, and most were vaccinated shortly after. Seizures are not infrequently attributed to the vaccine despite a lack of supporting evidence. People with epilepsy (PWE) are often reluctant to get the vaccine due to concerns of seizure aggravation. We aim to examine the effect of the vaccine effort on the frequency of both new-onset seizures and recurrent seizures in PWE. METHODS All adults who presented to the emergency department (ED) of Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center between January 1st and May 31st, 2017-2021, and were diagnosed with seizures were included. Demographic, clinical, and vaccination status parameters were collected using MDClone, a data acquisition tool. Vaccination rates in the general population were obtained from official governmental publications. Statistics included a sub-analysis of patients with the highest vaccination rate, people older than 60. RESULTS 1675 cases were included. The numbers of ED visits and hospital admissions due to seizures in 2021 were comparable to preceding years after adjusting for the total number of ED visits at the same time. Out of 339 cases in 2021, 134 patients older than 60 years old presented to the ED (39.5%) compared to 124-151 in 2017-2019 (37-44%) and 103 in 2020 (33%). The vaccination rate among patients hospitalized due to seizures was similar to the general population of the same age group during the same period in Israel. There was no temporal relation between vaccination and hospitalization due to a seizure. SIGNIFICANCE Despite very high vaccination rates in the general population in Israel and especially among people older than 60 years, no increase was observed in ED presentations due to seizures. No temporal relation was observed between vaccination and hospitalization due to a seizure. We conclude that the mass vaccination with the Pfizer BioNTech mRNA vaccine is not associated with increased seizure propensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alon Doron
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tamar Eviatar-Ribak
- EEG and Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Aya Vituri
- Tel Aviv University Center for AI and Data Science (TAD), Israel
| | - Shimon Shahar
- Tel Aviv University Center for AI and Data Science (TAD), Israel
| | - Firas Fahoum
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; EEG and Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Lilach Goldstein
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; EEG and Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, USA.
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Marshall AD, Leach JP, Mackay D, Heath CA. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a cohort of adults with epilepsy. Seizure 2023; 111:191-195. [PMID: 37678077 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess the direct and indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults with epilepsy in Glasgow. METHODS We used routinely collected data for a previously identified cohort of patients with epilepsy to evaluate access to scheduled and unscheduled care with quarterly rates of inpatient admissions, outpatient attendance and accident & emergency attendance calculated. Anti-seizure medication prescribing and persistence, incidence of anxiety and depression and deaths for a cohort of patients with epilepsy was evaluated prior to the pandemic in comparison to during the pandemic, from 2015 to 2021. RESULTS All-cause mortality and epilepsy related mortality showed a statistically significant reduction during the pandemic. Although overall rates of out-patient hospital attendance dropped during the early stages of the pandemic (and had not returned to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2021) epilepsy-related services saw maintenance of patient contact as a result of a rapid adoption of telephone clinics. A significant decrease in overall mortality was observed in PWE during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. COVID-19 was the single commonest cause of death in PWE during the pandemic (61/453) and 160 patients (3.7%) had at least 1 admission to hospital for COVID-19. Anti-seizure medication (ASM) prescribing remained rates remained stable during the pandemic. During the pandemic an average of 38.8% of cohort patients were treated for depression and 16.3% for anxiety per quarter, 8.2% and 12.4% of whom had not been previously treated for these conditions respectively. CONCLUSION We have shown that during a national lockdown, in the context of a pandemic, mortality in patients with epilepsy has reduced, while out-patient services were delivered remotely, primarily via the telephone. The reasons for this remain unclear but suggest that some of the excess mortality in people with epilepsy may be potentially avoidable by changes in lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Marshall
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK.
| | - J P Leach
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, UK; School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - D Mackay
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - C A Heath
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurological Sciences, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, UK; School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, UK
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Gandelman-Marton R. Potential feasibility of a remote first visit in the epilepsy clinic. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 146:109358. [PMID: 37499578 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109358] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the beginning of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) epidemic in Israel in early 2020, follow-up visits through phone consultations were available only for patients treated in our outpatient epilepsy clinic. OBJECTIVE To assess the potential feasibility of phone consultation instead of in-person first visit in the outpatient epilepsy clinic. METHODS The computerized database and medical records of all the patients who had an in-person first visit in our outpatient epilepsy clinic during a 4-year period (2018-2021) were retrospectively reviewed. Potential feasibility of a remote visit was assessed for all visits and was deemed possible when physical examination or vagal nerve stimulator (VNS) examination or parameter adjustment was not reported in the visit summary. RESULTS The study group included 462 patients who had an in-person first visit in the outpatient epilepsy clinic during the study period. A remote first visit was deemed potentially feasible in 404 (87%) patients. Those in whom a remote first visit was deemed potentially infeasible were older (p = 0.0001), with longer disease duration (p = 0.001) and higher rates of antiseizure medication polytherapy (p = 0.0001), VNS and additional symptoms (p = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS A remote visit may be potentially feasible for most patients who are scheduled for a first visit in the epilepsy clinic. An in-person visit may remain the preferred option for patients with additional neurological symptoms or a VNS, and may also be considered in older patients and those with longer disease duration or antiseizure medication polytherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revital Gandelman-Marton
- Neurology Department, Shamir-Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin 70300, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
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Hill CE, Lin CC, Terman SW, Zahuranec D, Parent JM, Skolarus LE, Burke JF. Predictors of referral for long-term EEG monitoring for Medicare beneficiaries with drug-resistant epilepsy. Epilepsia Open 2023; 8:1096-1110. [PMID: 37423646 PMCID: PMC10472378 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE For people with drug-resistant epilepsy, the use of epilepsy surgery is low despite favorable odds of seizure freedom. To better understand surgery utilization, we explored factors associated with inpatient long-term EEG monitoring (LTM), the first step of the presurgical pathway. METHODS Using 2001-2018 Medicare files, we identified patients with incident drug-resistant epilepsy using validated criteria of ≥2 distinct antiseizure medication (ASM) prescriptions and ≥1 drug-resistant epilepsy encounter among patients with ≥2 years pre- and ≥1 year post-diagnosis Medicare enrollment. We used multilevel logistic regression to evaluate associations between LTM and patient, provider, and geographic factors. We then analyzed neurologist-diagnosed patients to further evaluate provider/environmental characteristics. RESULTS Of 12 044 patients with incident drug-resistant epilepsy diagnosis identified, 2% underwent surgery. Most (68%) were diagnosed by a neurologist. In total, 19% underwent LTM near/after drug-resistant epilepsy diagnosis; another 4% only underwent LTM much prior to diagnosis. Patient factors most strongly predicting LTM were age <65 (adjusted odds ratio 1.5 [95% confidence interval 1.3-1.8]), focal epilepsy (1.6 [1.4-1.9]), psychogenic non-epileptic spells diagnosis (1.6 [1.1-2.5]) prior hospitalization (1.7, [1.5-2]), and epilepsy center proximity (1.6 [1.3-1.9]). Additional predictors included female gender, Medicare/Medicaid non-dual eligibility, certain comorbidities, physician specialties, regional neurologist density, and prior LTM. Among neurologist-diagnosed patients, neurologist <10 years from graduation, near an epilepsy center, or epilepsy-specialized increased LTM likelihood (1.5 [1.3-1.9], 2.1 [1.8-2.5], 2.6 [2.1-3.1], respectively). In this model, 37% of variation in LTM completion near/after diagnosis was explained by individual neurologist practice and/or environment rather than measurable patient factors (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.37). SIGNIFICANCE A small proportion of Medicare beneficiaries with drug-resistant epilepsy completed LTM, a proxy for epilepsy surgery referral. While some patient factors and access measures predicted LTM, non-patient factors explained a sizable proportion of variance in LTM completion. To increase surgery utilization, these data suggest initiatives targeting better support of neurologist referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe E. Hill
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Chun Chieh Lin
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
| | - Samuel W. Terman
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Darin Zahuranec
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Jack M. Parent
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | | | - James F. Burke
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOhioUSA
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De Giorgis V, Tagliabue A, Bisulli F, Brambilla I, Camerini A, Cusmai R, Darra F, Dianin A, Domenica E, Lodi MAM, Matricardi S, Messana T, Operto F, Ragona F, Russo E, Varesio C, Volpi L, Zanaboni MP, Pasca L, Veggiotti P. Ketogenic dietary therapies in epilepsy: recommendations of the Italian League against Epilepsy Dietary Therapy Study Group. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1215618. [PMID: 37497012 PMCID: PMC10368245 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1215618] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
A stepwise increase in the utilization of ketogenic dietary therapies for drug-resistant epilepsy has been observed in Italy in the last decade, although it is still considered often underused in many centers when compared to other countries. The Dietary Therapy Study Group of the Italian League against Epilepsy proposes practical recommendations to improve shared knowledge and facilitate the application of ketogenic dietary therapies, optimizing its efficacy and tolerability. The experts involved (11 child neuropsychiatrists, two adult neurologists, one psychologist, one pharmacologist, one pediatric endocrinologist, one representative of patients' associations, and three dietitians and clinical nutritionists) responded to a survey on current clinical practice issues and were asked to discuss controversial topics related to supplementation, long-term maintenance, transition, and a multidisciplinary approach to ketogenic dietary therapies. Practical indications for patient selection, diet initiation, management, side effects prevention, and follow-up are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina De Giorgis
- Department of Brain and Behaviour Neuroscience, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Tagliabue
- Department of Public Health, Human Nutrition and Eating Disorder Research Center and Ketogenic Metabolic Therapy Laboratory—Experimental and Forensic Medicine University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Bisulli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Full Member of the European Reference Network for Rare and Complex Epilepsies (EpiCARE), Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Brambilla
- Endocrinologia, Diabetologia e Ginecologia Pediatrica, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo di Pavia, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Cusmai
- Child Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation, Bambino Gesù Children's Research Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Darra
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Full Member of European Reference Network EpiCARE, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Dianin
- Inherited Metabolic Diseases Unit and Regional Centre for Newborn Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment of Inherited Metabolic Diseases and Congenital Endocrine Diseases, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Elia Domenica
- Artificial Nutrition Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Anna Maria Lodi
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry, Epilepsy Center, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Matricardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Tullio Messana
- Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, UOC Neuropsichiatria dell'etá pediatrica, Member of the ERN Epicare, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Operto
- Department of Science of Health, School of Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesca Ragona
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, IRCCS Foundation Carlo Besta Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Costanza Varesio
- Department of Brain and Behaviour Neuroscience, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lilia Volpi
- UOC Neurologia, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, Azienda USL di Bologna, Ospedale Bellaria Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Ludovica Pasca
- Department of Brain and Behaviour Neuroscience, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Veggiotti
- Vittore Buzzi Children's Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, L. Sacco, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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15
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Roghani A, Bouldin E, Mobasher H, Kalvesmaki A, Panahi S, Henion A, VanCott A, Raquel Lopez M, Jo Pugh M. COVID-19 pandemic experiences among people with epilepsy: Effect on symptoms of co-occurring health conditions and fear of seizure. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 144:109206. [PMID: 37236022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109206] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic profoundly affected people worldwide, but little is known about how it impacted people with epilepsy (PWE). We examined the associations between COVID-19 stressors and health outcomes including increases in other health symptoms and fear of seizure among PWE. METHODS This cross-sectional study used data from an online survey that asked about demographic characteristics, health conditions, and potential life stressors during COVID-19. Data were collected from October 30 to December 8, 2020. COVID-19 stressors were anger, anxiety, stress, healthcare access, fear of seeking healthcare, social isolation, sense of control over their lives, and alcohol consumption. A binary variable was created for each of these measures to indicate whether PWEs experienced a negative change versus a neutral or positive change. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess the associations of COVID-19 stressors with primary outcomes: exacerbated co-occurring health conditions and increasing fear of seizure during the pandemic. RESULTS Of the 260 PWE included in the study, 165 (63.5%) were women; the average age was 38.7 years. During the survey administration period, 79 (30.3%) of the respondents reported exacerbated co-occurring health conditions, and 94 (36.2%) reported an increased fear of seizures. Regression results indicated that the fear of seeking healthcare during COVID-19 was associated with both exacerbated co-occurring health conditions (aOR 1.12; 95%CI 1.01-1.26) and increasing fear of seizure (aOR 2.31; 95%CI 1.14-4.68). Social isolation was associated with exacerbated co-occurring health conditions during COVID-19 (aOR 1.14; 95%CI 1.01-1.29). Reduced access to physical healthcare was associated with increasing fear of seizure (aOR 2.58; 95%CI 1.15-5.78). CONCLUSION A considerable number of PWE experienced more symptoms of existing health conditions and fear of seizure during the initial year of the pandemic (2020). Fear of seeking healthcare services was associated with both negative outcomes. Assuring access to health care and reducing social isolation could potentially reduce negative outcomes for PWE. It is necessary to provide adequate support for PWE to reduce risks as COVID-19 continues to be a health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Roghani
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Erin Bouldin
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Helal Mobasher
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Andrea Kalvesmaki
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Samin Panahi
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Amy Henion
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Anne VanCott
- VA Pittsburgh Health Care System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Division University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Maria Raquel Lopez
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mary Jo Pugh
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Living with Epilepsy during COVID-19 pandemic restrictions: A Longitudinal Perspective. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 142:109146. [PMID: 37075509 PMCID: PMC9941304 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109146] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of our study was to explore how people with epilepsy fared during two of the most stringent 4-month society-wide COVID-19 related pandemic restrictions in Ireland, in 2020 and one year later in 2021. This was in the context of their seizure control, lifestyle factors and access to epilepsy-related healthcare services. A 14-part questionnaire was administered to adults with epilepsy during virtual specialist epilepsy clinics in a University Hospital in Dublin, Ireland at the end of the two lockdowns. People with epilepsy were questioned on their epilepsy control, lifestyle factors and quality of epilepsy-related medical care, compared to pre-COVID times. The study sample consisted of two separate cohorts of those diagnosed with epilepsy (100 (51.8%) in 2020, 93 (48.2%) in 2021, with similar baseline characteristics. There was no significant change in seizure control or lifestyle factors from 2020 to 2021, except for deterioration in anti-seizure medication (ASM) adherence in 2021 compared to 2020 (p = 0.028). There was no correlation between ASM adherence and other lifestyle factors. Over the two years, poor seizure control was significantly associated with poor sleep (p <0.001) and average seizure frequency in a month (p = 0.007). We concluded that there was no significant difference between seizure control or lifestyle factors between the two most stringent lockdowns in Ireland, in 2020 and in 2021. Furthermore, people with epilepsy reported that throughout the lockdowns access to services was well maintained, and they felt well supported by their services. Contrary to popular opinion that COVID lockdowns greatly affected patients with chronic diseases, we found that those with epilepsy attending our service remained largely stable, optimistic, and healthy during this time.
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Taquet M, Devinsky O, Cross JH, Harrison PJ, Sen A. Incidence of Epilepsy and Seizures Over the First 6 Months After a COVID-19 Diagnosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Neurology 2023; 100:e790-e799. [PMID: 36384658 PMCID: PMC9984208 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000201595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The relationship between COVID-19 and epilepsy is uncertain. We studied the potential association between COVID-19 and seizures or epilepsy in the 6 months after infection. METHODS We applied validated methods to an electronic health records network (TriNetX Analytics) of 81 million people. We closely matched people with COVID-19 infections to those with influenza. In each cohort, we measured the incidence and hazard ratios (HRs) of seizures and epilepsy. We stratified data by age and by whether the person was hospitalized during the acute infection. We then explored time-varying HRs to assess temporal patterns of seizure or epilepsy diagnoses. RESULTS We analyzed 860,934 electronic health records. After matching, this yielded 2 cohorts each of 152,754 patients. COVID-19 was associated with an increased risk of seizures and epilepsy compared with influenza. The incidence of seizures within 6 months of COVID-19 was 0.81% (95% CI 0.75-0.88; HR compared with influenza 1.55 [1.39-1.74]). The incidence of epilepsy was 0.30% (0.26-0.34; HR compared with influenza 1.87 [1.54-2.28]). The HR of epilepsy after COVID-19 compared with influenza was greater in people who had not been hospitalized and in individuals younger than 16 years. The time of peak HR after infection differed by age and hospitalization status. DISCUSSION The incidence of new seizures or epilepsy diagnoses in the 6 months after COVID-19 was low overall, but higher than in matched patients with influenza. This difference was more marked in people who were not hospitalized, highlighting the risk of epilepsy and seizures even in those with less severe infection. Children appear at particular risk of seizures and epilepsy after COVID-19 providing another motivation to prevent COVID-19 infection in pediatric populations. That the varying time of peak risk related to hospitalization and age may provide clues as to the underlying mechanisms of COVID-associated seizures and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Arjune Sen
- From the Department of Psychiatry (M.T., P.J.H.), University of Oxford, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust (M.T., P.J.H.), UK; Department of Neurology (O.D.), NYU Grossman School of Medicine; UCL NIHR BRC Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health (J.H.C.), London, UK; Young Epilepsy (J.H.C.), St Pier's Lane, Dormansland, Lingfield, UK; and Oxford Epilepsy Research Group (A.S.), NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, UK.
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Telemedicine for Individuals with epilepsy: Recommendations from International League Against Epilepsy Telemedicine Task Force. Seizure 2023; 106:85-91. [PMID: 36803864 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, People with Epilepsy (PWE) are confronted with several barriers to face-to-face consultations. These obstacles hamper appropriate clinical follow-up and also increase the treatment gap for Epilepsy. Telemedicine holds the potential to enhance management as follow-up visits for PWE are focused on more on clinical history and counselling rather than physical examination. Besides consultation, telemedicine can also be used for remote EEG diagnostics and tele-neuropsychology assessments. In this article, the Telemedicine Task Force of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) outlines recommendations regarding optimal practice in utilizing in the management of individuals with epilepsy. We formulated recommendations for minimum technical requirements, preparing for the first tele-consultation and the specificities for follow-up consultations. Special considerations are necessary for specific populations, including paediatric patients, patients who are not conversant with tele-medicine and those with intellectual disability. Telemedicine for individuals with epilepsy should be vigorously promoted with the aim of improving the quality of care and ultimately reduce the wide clinician access related treatment gap across several regions of the globe.
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Sorokina ND, Pertsov SS, Selitsky GV, Zherdeva AS, Tsagashek AV. [Impact of COVID-19 on some neurological and psychological features in epilepsy]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2023; 123:7-11. [PMID: 36946390 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro20231230317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
The new coronavirus infection spread around the world in a very short time and turned into a pandemic with a wave-like flow for more than two years. COVID-19infection affects selectively various organs and systems, including the nervous system; neurological manifestations have been reported, including anosmia, encephalopathy, stroke, epileptogenic disorders, which necessitates studies of the course of brain diseases, among which epilepsy occupies a significant place.
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Affiliation(s)
- N D Sorokina
- Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - S S Pertsov
- Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
- Anokhin Research Institute of Normal Physiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - G V Selitsky
- Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - A S Zherdeva
- Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - A V Tsagashek
- Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
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20
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Li W, Hao X, Gu W, Liang C, Tu F, Ding L, Lu X, Liao J, Guo H, Zheng G, Wu C. Analysis of the efficacy and safety of inpatient and outpatient initiation of KD for the treatment of pediatric refractory epilepsy using generalized estimating equations. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1146349. [PMID: 37181559 PMCID: PMC10174452 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1146349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare the efficacy and safety of inpatient and outpatient initiation ketogenic diet (KD) protocol of pediatric refractory epilepsy. Methods Eligible children with refractory epilepsy were randomly assigned to receive KD with inpatient and outpatient initiation. The generalized estimation equation (GEE) model was used to analyze the longitudinal variables of seizure reduction, ketone body, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and BMI Z-score at different follow-up times between the two groups. Results Between January 2013 and December 2021, 78 and 112 patients were assigned to outpatient and inpatient KD initiation groups, respectively. There were no statistical differences between the two groups based on baseline demographics and clinical characteristics (all Ps > 0.05). The GEE model indicated that the rate of reduction of seizures≥50% in the outpatient initiation group was higher than that of the inpatient initiation group (p = 0.049). A negative correlation was observed between the seizure reduction and blood ketone body at 1, 6, and 12 months (all Ps < 0.05). There were no significant differences in height, weight, BMI, and BMI Z-score between the two groups over the 12-month period by the GEE models (all Ps > 0.05). Adverse events were reported by 31 patients (43.05%) in the outpatient KD initiation group and 46 patients (42.20%) in the inpatient KD initiation group, but these differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.909). Conclusion Our study shows that outpatient KD initiation is a safe and effective treatment for children with refractory epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Quality Management, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyan Hao
- Department of Quality Management, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Gu
- Department of Quality Management, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Liang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fulai Tu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Le Ding
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaopeng Lu
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianxiang Liao
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Hu Guo
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guo Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunfeng Wu
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- *Correspondence: Chunfeng Wu,
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von Gaudecker JR, Clarke DF, Perkins S, Ali A, Sanjuan D, Vidaurre J. Epilepsy care delivery during COVID-19 in resource-limited countries: A survey in collaboration with International Epilepsy Equity Group. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 138:108998. [PMID: 36436359 PMCID: PMC9690616 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of pandemic has had worse effects in countries with already stretched healthcare resources. study's The study aimed to explore changes in epilepsy care delivery in resource-limited countries during and since the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 22 countries among healthcare providers (HCPs) caring for persons with epilepsy (PWE), in collaboration with newly formed global collaborators, the International Epilepsy Equity Group. Findings were compared based on the World Bank Ranking (WBR) and HCPs' practice type. Data were analyzed using Chi-square tests (α = 0.05) and pairwise multiple comparisons with α = 0.017 (Bonferroni adjustment). Open-ended responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. FINDINGS A total of 241 HCPs participated in the study. Of these, 8.30%, 65.98%, and 21.99% were from high-income (HIC), upper-middle-income (UMIC), and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs), respectively. Among HCPs, 31.12% were adult specialists, and 43.98% were pediatric specialists. During the acute phase of the pandemic, HCPs reported that the major barrier for PWE was difficulty reaching physicians/healthcare providers. Except for difficulty reaching physicians/healthcare providers (WBR P = 0.01 HIC < LMIC), no other significant differences in barriers during the acute phase were observed. Since the acute phase of the pandemic, the major concern for PWE was fear of getting infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Significant differences in concerns since the acute phase included lockdowns (WBR: P = 0.03 UMIC < LMIC), fiscal difficulties (WBR: P < 0.001 UMICs < LMICs, UMICs < HIC; practice type: P = 0.006 adult < others, pediatrics < others), clinic closure (WBR: P = 0.003 UMIC < HIC; practice type: P =< 0.001 adult < others, pediatric < others), and long waiting times (WBR: P = 0.005, LMIC < UMIC, LMIC < HIC; practice type: P = 0.006 pediatric < adults). Diagnostic services, including EEG, MRI, CT (practice type: P < 0.001, adult < others; pediatric < others), and lab work (WBR: P = 0.01 UMIC < HIC), were restricted. The telephone was the most reported teleconsultation method used. Except for SMS/texting (WBR P = 0.02 UMIC < LMIC), there were no significant differences in teleconsultation methods used. DISCUSSION There is a high probability that the initial wave and consequent reduction of in-person care, restriction of health services, and fiscal difficulties affecting all involved in care delivery, led to the disruption of epilepsy care. Additional support are needed in resource-limited countries to cope with future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane R von Gaudecker
- Indiana University School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Dave F Clarke
- Neurology and Pediatrics, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, USA; Pediatric Epilepsy, Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas, USA.
| | - Susan Perkins
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Amza Ali
- Epilepsy Centre of Jamaica, Jamaica; The University of the West Indies, Jamaica.
| | - Daniel Sanjuan
- National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Jorge Vidaurre
- Nationwide Children's Hospital - The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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22
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Long-term analysis of the effects of COVID-19 in people with epilepsy: Results from a multicenter on-line survey across the pandemic waves. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 135:108900. [PMID: 36115083 PMCID: PMC9404228 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The worldwide pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus posed many challenges to the scientific and medical communities, including the protection and management of fragile populations. People with epilepsy (PWE) are a heterogenous group of subjects, with different treatment regimens and severity of symptoms. During the National lockdown, in Italy many patients with chronic conditions lost their regular follow-up program. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on their health status, from the start of the pandemic (March 2020) to July 2021 and one year later. METHODS We proposed an online questionnaire to subjects followed up at different epilepsy centers located in Milano, Monza & Lodi, three of Lombardy, Northern Italy, the most affected areas by the pandemic. Survey evaluated age, sex, characteristics of patients, type of epilepsy and therapies, COVID-19 diagnosis, vaccines, sleep quality, and anxiety status. RESULTS Among 178 analyzed surveys, 37 individuals reported symptoms of COVID-19 in closed contacts, including 9 with molecular diagnosis and 16 PWE performing the nasopharyngeal swab with 3 positive cases. One year later, 35 individuals reported at least one symptom overlapping with those typical of COVID-19, 8 received COVID-19 diagnosis, among which 6 were positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. According to the sleep quality scale assessment, most PWE (52.3%) had poor sleep quality. Assessing anxiety status, 32 (38.1%) had a pathological score. CONCLUSION In this multicenter study, we observed that PWE do not appear to be at a higher risk of severe COVID-19. It will be fundamental monitoring this group to assess possible differences in long-COVID-19 and/or neuro-COVID-19 prevalence. On the other hand, our survey confirmed the impact of the pandemic on anxiety and quality of sleep in PWE. Thus, it is important to promptly recognize and treat psychological distress in PWE, because it could be a risk factor in seizure aggravation and quality-of-life deterioration. Telemedicine appears to be a useful tool to support patients with chronic diseases, such as epilepsy.
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23
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Körbel K, Rosenow F, Maltseva M, Müller H, Schulz J, Tsalouchidou PE, Langenbruch L, Kovac S, Menzler K, Hamacher M, von Podewils F, Willems LM, Mann C, Strzelczyk A. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on physical and mental health status and care of adults with epilepsy in Germany. Neurol Res Pract 2022; 4:44. [PMID: 36131301 PMCID: PMC9492304 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-022-00209-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To mitigate the potential consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on public life, the German Federal Government and Ministry of Health enacted a strict lockdown protocol on March 16, 2020. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical and mental health status and the supply of medical care and medications for people with epilepsy (PWE) in Germany. Methods The Epi2020 study was a large, multicenter study focused on different healthcare aspects of adults with epilepsy. In addition to clinical and demographic characteristics, patients were asked to answer a questionnaire on the impact of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic between March and May 2020. Furthermore, the population-based number of epilepsy-related admissions in Hessen was evaluated for the January-June periods of 2017–2020 to detect pandemic-related changes. Results During the first wave of the pandemic, 41.6% of PWE reported a negative impact on their mental health, while only a minority reported worsening of their seizure situation. Mental and physical health were significantly more negatively affected in women than men with epilepsy and in PWE without regular employment. Moreover, difficulties in ensuring the supply of sanitary products (25.8%) and antiseizure medications (ASMs; 19.9%) affected PWE during the first lockdown; no significant difference regarding these impacts between men and women or between people with and without employment was observed. The number of epilepsy-related admissions decreased significantly during the first wave. Conclusions This analysis provides an overview of the general and medical care of epilepsy patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. PWE in our cohort frequently reported psychosocial distress during the first wave of the pandemic, with significant adverse effects on mental and physical health. Women and people without permanent jobs especially reported distress due to the pandemic. The COVID‐19 pandemic has added to the mental health burden and barriers to accessing medication and medical services, as self-reported by patients and verified in population-based data on hospital admissions. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), DRKS00022024. Registered October 2, 2020, http://www.drks.de/DRKS00022024
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24
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Lavin B, Gray CL, Brodie M. Telemedicine and Epilepsy Care. Neurol Clin 2022; 40:717-727. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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25
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Dugan P, Carroll E, Thorpe J, Jette N, Agarwal P, Ashby S, Hanna J, French J, Devinsky O, Sen A. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people with epilepsy: findings from the US arm of the COV-E study. Epilepsia Open 2022; 7:645-656. [PMID: 35929180 PMCID: PMC9537888 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As part of the COVID-19 and Epilepsy (COV-E) global study, we aimed to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the medical care and well-being of people with epilepsy (PWE) in the United States, based on their perspectives and those of their caregivers. METHODS Separate surveys designed for PWE and their caregivers were circulated from April 2020 to July 2021; modifications in March 2021 included a question about COVID-19 vaccination status. RESULTS We received 788 responses, 71% from PWE (n = 559) and 29% (n=229) from caregivers of persons with epilepsy. A third (n = 308) of respondents reported a change in their health or in the health of the person they care for. Twenty-seven percent (n = 210) reported issues related to worsening mental health. Of respondents taking ASMs (n = 769), 10% (n= 78) reported difficulty taking medications on time, mostly due to stress causing forgetfulness. Less than half of respondents received counseling on mental health and stress. Less than half of the PWE reported having discussions with their healthcare providers about sleep, ASMs and potential side effects, while a larger proportion of caregivers (81%) reported having had discussions with their healthcare providers on the same topics. More PWE and caregivers reported that COVID-19 related measures caused adverse impact on their health in the post-vaccine period than during the pre-vaccine period, citing mental health issues as the primary reason. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings indicate that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the US on PWE is multifaceted. Apart from the increased risk of poor COVID-19 outcomes, the pandemic has also had negative effects on mental health and self-management. Healthcare providers must be vigilant for increased emotional distress in PWE during the pandemic and consider the importance of effective counseling to diminish risks related to exacerbated treatment gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Dugan
- Department of NeurologyNYU Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Elizabeth Carroll
- Department of NeurologyNYU Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Jennifer Thorpe
- SUDEP ActionWantageUK
- Oxford Epilepsy Research Group, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical NeurosciencesJohn Radcliffe HospitalOxfordUK
| | - Nathalie Jette
- Department of Neurology and Department of Population Health Science & PolicyIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Parul Agarwal
- Department of Neurology and Department of Population Health Science & PolicyIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | | | - Jacqueline French
- Department of NeurologyNYU Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Orrin Devinsky
- Department of NeurologyNYU Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Arjune Sen
- Oxford Epilepsy Research Group, NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Clinical NeurosciencesJohn Radcliffe HospitalOxfordUK
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Joshi CN, Miller JS, Silveira LJ, Nelson JA, Walleigh DJ, Joshi SM, Patel AD. A Multicenter Study of Adherence to Best Practices and Application of Epilepsy Quality Metrics in a Pediatric Telemedicine Encounter. J Child Neurol 2022; 37:744-748. [PMID: 35656770 DOI: 10.1177/08830738221099730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To assess Epilepsy Quality Metrics (EQM) and guideline implementation in new pediatric patients seen in telemedicine. Methods: Multicenter, cross sectional, retrospective analysis. Results: Patients were similar across 3 centers for age, gender, and insurance type. Eighty-one percent presented for spells. One hundred sixty patients with epilepsy formed the EQM cohort. Results: Seizures described: 95%; frequency: 67%, last seizure documented: 81%, epilepsy syndrome documented: 67%; epilepsy diagnosis: 77%, medications reviewed: 56%, adverse events discussed: 73%. Quality of life discussed: 3%. Anticipatory guidance was described as follows: seizure safety, 57%; driving, 47%; SUDEP, 11%; vitamin D discussion, 19%; pregnancy and folic acid counseling, 4% and 10%. Epileptologists were 4 times as likely as generalists in discussing driving safety (odds ratio 3.93, 95% confidence interval 1.7-8.9; P = .001) for all ages. Significance: Performance on EQM and guideline implementation in pediatric epilepsy telemedicine encounters can be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charuta N Joshi
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 2932University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Joseph S Miller
- Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, 43973Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Lori J Silveira
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 2932University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Julie A Nelson
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 2932University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Diana J Walleigh
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 2932University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | | | - Anup D Patel
- 2650Nationwide Children's Hospital, Center for Clinical Excellence, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Division of Neurology
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Asadi-Pooya AA, Farazdaghi M. New-onset functional seizures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2022; 219:107310. [PMID: 35660168 PMCID: PMC9142366 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2022.107310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated whether the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the characteristics of functional seizures (FS) at the onset of seizures. METHODS This was a retrospective study of all patients with new-onset FS, who were admitted at the epilepsy monitoring unit at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran, during two time periods: the onset of FS and also the diagnosis of FS in 2017-2019 (pre-COVID era) and the onset of FS and also the diagnosis of FS in 2020-2021 (COVID era). RESULTS Forty-five patients were studied (32 patients from the pre-COVID era and 13 patients from the COVID era). Patients who developed FS during the pandemic more likely had comorbid epilepsy compared with the patients who presented with FS before the pandemic [30.1% vs. 9.4%; Odds ratio (OR): 81.2]. Furthermore, those who developed FS during the pandemic more likely were employed compared with the patients who presented with FS before the pandemic (46.2% vs. 12.5%; OR: 16.2). A family history of seizures was associated with the FS timing as a trend (OR: 8.4); those who developed FS during the pandemic more likely had a family history of seizures compared with the patients who presented with FS before the pandemic (53.8% vs. 18.8%). CONCLUSION This study showed that patients who developed FS during the COVID-19 pandemic had significant underlying differences (i.e., employment status, comorbid epilepsy, and a family history of seizures) compared with those who presented with FS before the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Mohsen Farazdaghi
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Kohle F, Madlener M, Bruno EF, Fink GR, Limmroth V, Burghaus L, Malter MP. Status epilepticus during the COVID-19 pandemic in Cologne, Germany: data from a retrospective, multicentre registry. J Neurol 2022; 269:5710-5719. [PMID: 35802201 PMCID: PMC9266085 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11260-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background The “coronavirus disease 2019” (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the “severe-acute-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus 2” (SARS-CoV-2), challenges healthcare systems worldwide and impacts not only COVID-19 patients but also other emergencies. To date, data are scarce on the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacted status epilepticus (SE) and its treatment. Objective To assess the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence, management and outcome of SE patients. Study design This is a retrospective, multicentre trial, approved by the University of Cologne (21-1443-retro). Methods All SE patients from the urban area of Cologne transmitted to all acute neurological departments in Cologne between 03/2019 and 02/2021 were retrospectively analysed and assessed for patient characteristics, SE characteristics, management, and outcome in the first pandemic year compared to the last pre-pandemic year. Results 157 pre-pandemic (03/2019–02/2020) and 171 pandemic (from 03/2020 to 02/2021) SE patients were included in the analyses. Acute SARS-CoV-2 infections were rarely detected. Patient characteristics, management, and outcome did not reveal significant groupwise differences. In contrast, regarding prehospital management, a prolonged patient transfer to the hospital and variations in SE aetiologies compared to the last pre-pandemic year were observed with less chronic vascular and more cryptogenic and anoxic SE cases. No infections with SARS-CoV-2 occurred during inpatient stays. Conclusions SARS-CoV-2 infections did not directly affect SE patients, but the transfer of SE patients to emergency departments was delayed. Interestingly, SE aetiology rates shifted, which warrants further exploration. Fears of contracting an in-hospital SARS-CoV-2-infection were unfounded due to consequent containment measures. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00415-022-11260-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Kohle
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse, 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Marie Madlener
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse, 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Gereon Rudolf Fink
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse, 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Volker Limmroth
- Department of Neurology and Palliative Medicine, Cologne City Hospitals, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lothar Burghaus
- Department of Neurology, Heilig Geist Krankenhaus, Cologne, Germany
| | - Michael Peter Malter
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne and University Hospital of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse, 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany.
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Muccioli L, Zenesini C, Taruffi L, Licchetta L, Mostacci B, Di Vito L, Pasini E, Volpi L, Riguzzi P, Ferri L, Baccari F, Nonino F, Michelucci R, Tinuper P, Vignatelli L, Bisulli F. Risk of hospitalization and death for COVID-19 in persons with epilepsy over a 20-month period: the EpiLink Bologna cohort, Italy. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2279-2289. [PMID: 35778963 PMCID: PMC9349826 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective Data on COVID‐19 outcomes in persons with epilepsy (PWE) are scarce and inconclusive. We aimed to study the risk of hospitalization and death for COVID‐19 in a large cohort of PWE from March 1, 2020 to October 31, 2021. Methods The historical cohort design (EpiLink Bologna) compared adult PWE grouped into people with focal epilepsy (PFE), idiopathic generalized epilepsy (PIGE), and developmental and/or epileptic encephalopathy (PDEE), and a population cohort matched (ratio 1:10) for age, sex, residence, and comorbidity (assessed with the multisource comorbidity score), living in the local health trust of Bologna (approximately 800 000 residents). Clinical data were linked to health administrative data. Results In both cohorts (EpiLink: n = 1575 subjects, 1128 PFE, 267 PIGE, 148 PDEE, 32 other; controls: n = 15 326 subjects), 52% were females, and the mean age was 50 years (SD = 18). Hospital admissions for COVID‐19 in the whole period were 49 (3.1%) in PWE and 225 (1.5%) in controls. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) in PWE was 1.9 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–2.7). The subgroups at higher risk were PFE (aHR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.3–2.8) and PDEE (aHR = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.7–8.7), whereas PIGE had a risk comparable to the controls (aHR = 1.1, 95% CI = .3–3.5). Stratified analyses of the two main epidemic waves (March–May 2020, October 2020–May 2021) disclosed a higher risk of COVID‐19‐related hospitalization during the first epidemic wave (March–May 2020; aHR = 3.8, 95% CI = 2.2–6.7). Polytherapy with antiseizure medications contributed to a higher risk of hospital admission. Thirty‐day risk of death after hospitalization was 14% in both PWE and controls. Significance During the first 20 months since the outbreak of COVID‐19 in Bologna, PWE had a doubled risk of COVID‐19 hospital admission compared to a matched control population. Conversely, epilepsy did not represent a risk factor for COVID‐19‐related death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Muccioli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Corrado Zenesini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lisa Taruffi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Licchetta
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Mostacci
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lidia Di Vito
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Pasini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lilia Volpi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrizia Riguzzi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ferri
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Flavia Baccari
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Nonino
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Tinuper
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Vignatelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Bisulli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Karakas C, Ward R, Hegazy M, Skrehot H, Haneef Z. Seizure control during the COVID-19 pandemic: Correlating Responsive Neurostimulation System data with patient reports. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 139:106-113. [PMID: 35598434 PMCID: PMC9090858 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective To understand the impact of the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on seizure frequency in persons with epilepsy with a Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS) system implanted. Methods Weekly long episode counts (LEC) were used as a proxy for seizures for six months pre-COVID-19 and during the COVID-19 period. Telephone surveys and chart reviews were conducted to assess patient mental health during the pandemic. The change in LEC between the two time periods was correlated to reported stressors. Results Twenty patients were included. Comparing the pre-COVID-19 period to the COVID-19 period, we found that only 5 (25%) patients had increased seizures, which was positively correlated with change in anti-seizure medications (ASM, p = 0.03) and bitemporal seizures (p = 0.03). Increased seizures were not correlated to anxiety (p = 1.00), depression (p = 0.58), and sleep disturbances (p = 1.00). The correlation between RNS-detected and patient-reported seizures was poor (p = 0.32). Conclusions Most of our patients did not have an increase in seizures following the COVID-19 pandemic. Changes in ASM and bitemporal seizures were positively correlated to increased LEC. There was no correlation between pandemic-related stress and seizures in those found to have increased seizures. Significance This is the first study correlating RNS-derived objective LECs with patient self-reports and potential seizure risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cemal Karakas
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Norton Children's Medical Group, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
| | - Ryan Ward
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mohamed Hegazy
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Henry Skrehot
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zulfi Haneef
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Neurology Care Line, VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Jang Y, Moon J, Lee ST, Lee SK, Chu K. Telemedicine in epilepsy and encephalitis: previous research and indication guidelines in Korea. ENCEPHALITIS 2022; 2:65-72. [PMID: 37469460 PMCID: PMC10295915 DOI: 10.47936/encephalitis.2022.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine is an emerging field of medicine that has become more important during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic era and is being studied actively in various medical fields. In neurology, the introduction of telemedicine is accelerating worldwide under the label of teleneurology. So far, few studies have been conducted on telemedicine for patients with epilepsy. In nonmetropolitan areas, video-based clinics have been demonstrated to be effective for seizure control, and smartphone-based diagnosis has also been confirmed to be accurate. Indeed, after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine has been used to treat patients with epilepsy around the world. Few studies have examined the use of telemedicine for patients with autoimmune encephalitis. One showed that telephone-based evaluation is sufficient to assess the cognitive reserve of leucine-rich glioma inactivated-1-antibody encephalitis patients, thereby diagnosing their dementia. Telephone-based outpatient clinics are temporarily permitted under Korean medical law, and telemedicine can be attempted for clinically stable patients with epilepsy in Korea. In addition, patients with autoimmune encephalitis in stable or improving status may also be candidates for treatment with telemedicine. This review presents evidence for the safety and efficacy of telemedicine to treat epilepsy and encephalitis patients and discusses indication guidelines. Based on our literature review and current Korean medical law, we suggest tentative guidelines for telemedicine in the fields of epilepsy and autoimmune encephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonhyuk Jang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jangsup Moon
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Genomic Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soon-Tae Lee
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Kun Lee
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kon Chu
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory for Neurotherapeutics, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Milan A, Salles P, Pelayo C, Uribe-San-Martin R. Acute to Chronic Electro-Clinical Manifestations of Neuro-COVID and the Long-Haul Consequences in People With Epilepsy: A Review. Cureus 2022; 14:e26020. [PMID: 35865450 PMCID: PMC9293262 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) infection can involve the central nervous system (CNS). Acute symptomatic seizures or epileptiform discharges have not been commonly reported in patients with altered mental status related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. However, long-term neurological symptoms have been reported after COVID-19 infection (i.e., brain fog, cognitive complaints, and confusion), suggesting chronic encephalopathy. People with epilepsy (PWE) have been specifically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with changes in their seizure frequency, quality of life, health care accessibility, and medication interactions. This narrative review highlights possible pathophysiological mechanisms of COVID-19 on the brain, related to short- and long-term epileptiform activity and the impact of this infection on PWE.
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Kuroda N, Kubota T, Horinouchi T, Ikegaya N, Kitazawa Y, Kodama S, Kuramochi I, Matsubara T, Nagino N, Neshige S, Soga T, Takayama Y, Sone D. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on epilepsy care in Japan: A national-level multicenter retrospective cohort study. Epilepsia Open 2022; 7:431-441. [PMID: 35633311 PMCID: PMC9348370 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on epilepsy care across Japan was investigated by conducting a multicenter retrospective cohort study. METHODS This study included monthly data on the frequency of (1) visits by outpatients with epilepsy, (2) outpatient electroencephalography (EEG) studies, (3) telemedicine for epilepsy, (4) admissions for epilepsy, (5) EEG monitoring, and (6) epilepsy surgery in epilepsy centers and clinics across Japan between January 2019 and December 2020. We defined the primary outcome as epilepsy-center-specific monthly data divided by the 12-month average in 2019 for each facility. We determined whether the COVID-19 pandemic-related factors (such as year [2019 or 2020], COVID-19 cases in each prefecture in the previous month, and the state of emergency) were independently associated with these outcomes. RESULTS In 2020, the frequency of outpatient EEG studies (-10.7%, p<0.001) and cases with telemedicine (+2,608%, p=0.031) were affected. The number of COVID-19 cases was an independent associated factor for epilepsy admission (-3.75*10-3 % per case, p<0.001) and EEG monitoring (-3.81*10-3 % per case, p = 0.004). Further, the state of emergency was an independent factor associated with outpatient with epilepsy (-11.9%, p<0.001), outpatient EEG (-32.3%, p<0.001), telemedicine for epilepsy (+12,915%, p<0.001), epilepsy admissions (-35.3%; p<0.001), EEG monitoring (-24.7%: p<0.001), and epilepsy surgery (-50.3%, p<0.001). SIGNIFICANCE We demonstrated the significant impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on epilepsy care. These results support those of previous studies and clarify the effect size of each pandemic-related factor on epilepsy care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Kuroda
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State UniversityDetroitMichiganUSA
| | - Takafumi Kubota
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals of Cleveland Medical CenterCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Toru Horinouchi
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Psychiatry and NeurologyHokkaido University Graduate School of MedicineSapporoJapan
| | - Naoki Ikegaya
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of MedicineYokohama City UniversityYokohamaJapan
| | - Yu Kitazawa
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Neurology and Stroke MedicineYokohama City University Graduate School of MedicineYokohamaJapan
| | - Satoshi Kodama
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Izumi Kuramochi
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Psychiatry, Saitama Medical CenterSaitama Medical UniversitySaitamaJapan
| | - Teppei Matsubara
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical ImagingMassachusetts General HospitalCharlestownMassachusettsUSA
| | - Naoto Nagino
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Epilepsy Center, TMG Asaka Medical CenterSaitamaJapan
| | - Shuichiro Neshige
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima UniversityGraduate School of Biomedical and Health SciencesHiroshimaJapan
| | - Temma Soga
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of EpileptologyTohoku University Graduate School of MedicineMiyagiJapan
| | - Yutaro Takayama
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Center HospitalNational Center of Neurology and PsychiatryTokyoJapan
| | - Daichi Sone
- Japan Young Epilepsy Section (YES‐Japan)TokyoJapan
- Department of Clinical and Experimental EpilepsyUCL Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
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Sapkota S, Caruso E, Kobau R, Radhakrishnan L, Jobst B, DeVies J, Tian N, Hogan RE, Zack MM, Pastula DM. Seizure- or Epilepsy-Related Emergency Department Visits Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, 2019–2021. MMWR. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2022; 71:703-708. [PMID: 35617146 PMCID: PMC9153465 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7121a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Epilepsy and COVID 2021. Epilepsy Curr 2022; 22:398-403. [DOI: 10.1177/15357597221101268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) has infected over 400 million people worldwide. Although COVID-19 causes predominantly respiratory symptoms, it can affect other organs including the brain, producing neurological symptoms. People with epilepsy (PWE) have been particularly impacted during the pandemic with decreased access to care, increased stress, and worsening seizures in up to 22% of them probably due to multiple factors. COVID-19 vaccines were produced in a record short time and have yielded outstanding protection with very rare serious side effects. Studies have found that COVID-19 vaccination does not increase seizures in the majority of PWE. COVID-19 does not produce a pathognomonic EEG or seizure phenotype, but rather 1 that can be seen in other types of encephalopathy. COVID-19 infection and its complications can lead to seizures, status epilepticus and post-COVID inflammatory syndrome with potential multi-organ damage in people without pre-existing epilepsy. The lack of access to care during the pandemic has forced patients and doctors to rapidly implement telemedicine. The use of phone videos and smart telemedicine are helping to treat patients during this pandemic and are becoming standard of care. Investment in infrastructure is important to make sure patients can have access to care even during a pandemic.
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Mula M, Coleman H, Wilson SJ. Neuropsychiatric and Cognitive Comorbidities in Epilepsy. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2022; 28:457-482. [PMID: 35393966 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article discusses psychiatric and cognitive comorbidities of epilepsy over the lifespan and illustrates opportunities to improve the quality of care of children and adults with epilepsy. RECENT FINDINGS One in 3 people with epilepsy have a lifetime history of psychiatric disorders, and they represent an important prognostic marker of epilepsy. Contributors are diverse and display a complex relationship. Cognitive comorbidities are also common among those living with epilepsy and are increasingly recognized as a reflection of changes to underlying brain networks. Among the cognitive comorbidities, intellectual disability and dementia are common and can complicate the diagnostic process when cognitive and/or behavioral features resemble seizures. SUMMARY Comorbidities require consideration from the first point of contact with a patient because they can determine the presentation of symptoms, responsiveness to treatment, and the patient's day-to-day functioning and quality of life. In epilepsy, psychiatric and cognitive comorbidities may prove a greater source of disability for the patient and family than the seizures themselves, and in the case of essential comorbidities, they are regarded as core to the disorder in terms of etiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Liang T, Chamdawala HS, Tay ET, Chao J, Waseem M, Lee H, Mortel D, Agoritsas K, Teo HO, Meltzer JA. Pediatric emergency care in New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown and reopening periods. Am J Emerg Med 2022; 56:137-144. [PMID: 35397354 PMCID: PMC8966116 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2022.03.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective New York City (NYC) is home to the largest public healthcare system in the United States and was an early epicenter of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections. This system serves as the safety net for underserved and marginalized communities disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Prior studies reported substantial declines in pediatric emergency department (ED) volume during the initial pandemic surge, but few describe the ongoing impact of COVID-19 throughout the year. We evaluated the characteristics of pediatric ED visits to NYC public hospitals during the pandemic lockdown and reopening periods of 2020 compared to the prior year. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of pediatric ED visits from 11 NYC public hospitals from January 2019–December 2020. Visit demographics, throughput times, and diagnosis information during the early (3/7/20–6/7/20) and late (6/8/20–12/31/20) pandemic periods coinciding with the New York State of emergency declaration (3/7/20) and the first reopening date (6/7/20) were compared to similar time periods in 2019. Findings were correlated with key pandemic shutdown and reopening events. Results There was a 47% decrease in ED volume in 2020 compared to 2019 (125,649 versus 238,024 visits). After reopening orders began in June 2020, volumes increased but peaked at <60% of 2019 volumes. Admission rates, triage acuity, and risk of presenting with a serious medical illness were significantly higher in 2020 versus 2019 (P < 0.001). Time-to-provider times decreased however provider-to-disposition times increased during the pandemic (P < 0.001). Infectious and asthma diagnoses declined >70% during the pandemic in contrast to the year prior. After reopening periods began, penetrating traumatic injuries significantly increased compared to 2019 [+34%, Relative Risk: 3.2 (2.6, 3.8)]. Conclusions NYC public hospitals experienced a sharp decrease in pediatric volume but an increase in patient acuity during both the initial pandemic surge and through the reopening periods. As COVID-19 variants emerge, the threat of the current pandemic expanding remains. Understanding its influence on pediatric ED utilization can optimize resource allocation and ensure equitable care for future surge events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Liang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, New York University Langone Health, 550 1st Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States of America; New York City Health + Hospitals, Bellevue, 462 1st Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States of America.
| | - Haamid S Chamdawala
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine, New York City Health + Hospitals, Jacobi, 1400 Pelham Pkwy S, Bronx, NY 10461, United States of America; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10461, United States of America
| | - Ee Tein Tay
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, New York University Langone Health, 550 1st Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States of America; New York City Health + Hospitals, Bellevue, 462 1st Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Chao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, New York City Health + Hospitals, Kings County, 451 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, United States of America; State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, United States of America
| | - Muhammad Waseem
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York City Health + Hospitals, Lincoln, 234 E 149th St, Bronx, NY 10451, United States of America; Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, United States of America
| | - Horton Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, New York City Health + Hospitals, Elmhurst, 79-01 Broadway, Queens, NY 11373, United States of America; Division of Emergency Medicine and Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, United States of America
| | - David Mortel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, New York City Health + Hospitals, Harlem, 506 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10037, United States of America; Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, 630 W 168th St, New York, NY 10032, United States of America
| | - Konstantinos Agoritsas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, New York City Health + Hospitals, Kings County, 451 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, United States of America; State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, United States of America
| | - Hugo O Teo
- New York City Health + Hospitals, 125 Worth St, New York, NY 10013, United States of America
| | - James A Meltzer
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Emergency Medicine, New York City Health + Hospitals, Jacobi, 1400 Pelham Pkwy S, Bronx, NY 10461, United States of America; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10461, United States of America
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Van Winssen C, Kyriakopoulos P, Sadi FE, Rezazadeh A, Fantaneanu T. Integrating virtual EEG sessions into fellowship programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2022; 7:96-97. [PMID: 35281721 PMCID: PMC8904309 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Farah El Sadi
- Neurology Resident, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Arezoo Rezazadeh
- Neurology Resident, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Tadeu Fantaneanu
- Neurology Resident, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Canada
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Asadi-Pooya AA, Trinka E, Hingray C, Fawaz A, Karakis I, Kishk NA, Farazdaghi M, Höfler J, Tarrada A, Ashkanani A, Risman A, Rizk H. An international study of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on characteristics of functional seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 127:108530. [PMID: 35016054 PMCID: PMC8714296 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated whether the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the clinical characteristics of patients with functional seizure (FS) (at the time of diagnosis) in a large multicenter international study. METHODS This was a retrospective study. We investigated all patients with FS, who were admitted at the epilepsy monitoring units at six centers in the world: 1. Shiraz, Iran; 2. Salzburg, Austria; 3. Nancy, France; 4. Atlanta, USA; 5. Kuwait City, Kuwait; and 6. Cairo, Egypt. Patients were studied during two time periods: admitted in 2018-2019 (pre-COVID era) and 2020-2021 (COVID era). RESULTS Three hundred and twenty-six patients were studied. Two hundred and twenty-four (68.7%) patients were diagnosed before and 102 (31.3%) persons during the COVID-19 pandemic. Only, a history of family dysfunction was significantly associated with the COVID-19 pandemic era (Odds Ratio: 1.925, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.099-3.371; p = 0.022). A low level of education might also be associated with FS during the COVID-19 pandemic, at least in some cultures (e.g., the Middle-East). CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic has not affected the clinical characteristics of patients with FS (at the time of diagnosis). However, a history of family dysfunction was significantly more frequently associated with FS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Multiagency integration of law enforcement responses, social services, and social awareness is recommended to address family dysfunction and domestic violence and support the victims during this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A. Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA,Corresponding author at: Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. Fax: +98 7136121052
| | - Eugen Trinka
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Doppler Medical Centre, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Associated Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, Austria; Neuroscience Institute, Christian-Doppler Medical Centre, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria; Department of Public Health, Health Services Research and Health Technology Assessment, UMIT - University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tirol, Austria; Karl Landsteiner Institute for Neurorehabilitation and Space Neurology, Salzburg, Austria.
| | | | - Ahmad Fawaz
- Neurology Department, Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, IbnSina Hospital, Kuwait
| | - Ioannis Karakis
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.
| | - Nirmeen A. Kishk
- Department of Neurology, Cairo University Epilepsy Unit (CUEU), School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohsen Farazdaghi
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Julia Höfler
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Doppler Medical Centre, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Alexis Tarrada
- Université de Paris, UFR de médecine Paris Centre, rue de l'Ecole de Médecine, 75006 Paris, France.
| | | | - Aida Risman
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.
| | - Haytham Rizk
- Department of Neurology, Cairo University Epilepsy Unit (CUEU), School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
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Neshige S, Aoki S, Takebayashi Y, Shishido T, Yamazaki Y, Iida K, Maruyama H. A longitudinal seizure outcome following the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021: Transient exacerbation or sustainable mitigation. J Neurol Sci 2021; 434:120100. [PMID: 34952346 PMCID: PMC8689575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.120100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective To study the longitudinal seizure outcomes of people with epilepsy (PWE) following the acute and chronic phases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods Consecutive PWE who were treated at the epilepsy center of Hiroshima University Hospital between 2018 and 2021 were enrolled. We evaluated the incidence of seizure frequency increase or decrease following the pandemic during observational periods in 2020 and 2021. Data between 2018 and 2019 were used as a control set. The sustainability of the altered seizure frequency condition was evaluated throughout the study period. We analyzed the clinical, psychological, and social factors associated with PWE with seizure exacerbation or amelioration. Results Among the 223 PWE who were evaluated (mean age 37.8 ± 16.3 years), seizure frequency increased for 40 (16.8%) and decreased for 34 (15.2%) after the pandemic began. While seizure exacerbation tended to be a transient episode during 2020, seizure amelioration was likely to maintain excellent status over the observation periods; the sustainability of the altered seizure frequency condition was more prominent for amelioration than exacerbation (p < 0.001). Seizure exacerbation was significantly associated with “no housemate” (odds ratio [OR] 3.37; p = 0.045) and “comorbidity of insomnia” (OR 5.80; p = 0.004). Conversely, “structural abnormality of MRI” (OR 2.57; p = 0.039) and “two-generation householding” (OR 3.70; p = 0.004) were independently associated with seizure amelioration. Conclusion This longitudinal observation confirmed that seizure exacerbation and amelioration emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on the stark difference that social support systems can make on outcomes for PWE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuichiro Neshige
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan; Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan.
| | - Shiro Aoki
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Takebayashi
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Takeo Shishido
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Yu Yamazaki
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Koji Iida
- Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Maruyama
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan; Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
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Antonazzo IC, Fornari C, Maumus-Robert S, Cei E, Paoletti O, Conti S, Cortesi PA, Mantovani LG, Gini R, Mazzaglia G. Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown, during the Two Waves, on Drug Use and Emergency Department Access in People with Epilepsy: An Interrupted Time-Series Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413253. [PMID: 34948862 PMCID: PMC8701966 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Italy implemented two national lockdowns aimed at reducing virus transmission. We assessed whether these lockdowns affected anti-seizure medication (ASM) use and epilepsy-related access to emergency departments (ED) in the general population. METHODS We performed a population-based study using the healthcare administrative database of Tuscany. We defined the weekly time series of prevalence and incidence of ASM, along with the incidence of epilepsy-related ED access from 1 January 2018 to 27 December 2020 in the general population. An interrupted time-series analysis was used to assess the effect of lockdowns on the observed outcomes. RESULTS Compared to pre-lockdown, we observed a relevant reduction of ASM incidence (0.65; 95% Confidence Intervals: 0.59-0.72) and ED access (0.72; 0.64-0.82), and a slight decrease of ASM prevalence (0.95; 0.94-0.96). During the post-lockdown the ASM incidence reported higher values compared to pre-lockdown, whereas ASM prevalence and ED access remained lower. Results also indicate a lower impact of the second lockdown for both ASM prevalence (0.97; 0.96-0.98) and incidence (0.89; 0.80-0.99). CONCLUSION The lockdowns implemented during the COVID-19 outbreaks significantly affected ASM use and epilepsy-related ED access. The potential consequences of these phenomenon are still unknown, although an increased incidence of epilepsy-related symptoms after the first lockdown has been observed. These findings emphasize the need of ensuring continuous care of epileptic patients in stressful conditions such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ippazio Cosimo Antonazzo
- Research Centre on Public Health (CESP), University of Milan-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (I.C.A.); (E.C.); (S.C.); (P.A.C.); (L.G.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Carla Fornari
- Research Centre on Public Health (CESP), University of Milan-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (I.C.A.); (E.C.); (S.C.); (P.A.C.); (L.G.M.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Sandy Maumus-Robert
- Team Pharmacoepidemiology, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Inserm U1219, University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France;
| | - Eleonora Cei
- Research Centre on Public Health (CESP), University of Milan-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (I.C.A.); (E.C.); (S.C.); (P.A.C.); (L.G.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Olga Paoletti
- Epidemiology Unit, Regional Agency for Healthcare Services of Tuscany, 50141 Florence, Italy; (O.P.); (R.G.)
| | - Sara Conti
- Research Centre on Public Health (CESP), University of Milan-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (I.C.A.); (E.C.); (S.C.); (P.A.C.); (L.G.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Paolo Angelo Cortesi
- Research Centre on Public Health (CESP), University of Milan-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (I.C.A.); (E.C.); (S.C.); (P.A.C.); (L.G.M.); (G.M.)
- Value-Based Healthcare Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Giovanni Mantovani
- Research Centre on Public Health (CESP), University of Milan-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (I.C.A.); (E.C.); (S.C.); (P.A.C.); (L.G.M.); (G.M.)
- Value-Based Healthcare Unit, IRCCS MultiMedica, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
| | - Rosa Gini
- Epidemiology Unit, Regional Agency for Healthcare Services of Tuscany, 50141 Florence, Italy; (O.P.); (R.G.)
| | - Giampiero Mazzaglia
- Research Centre on Public Health (CESP), University of Milan-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (I.C.A.); (E.C.); (S.C.); (P.A.C.); (L.G.M.); (G.M.)
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Asadi-Pooya AA, Farazdaghi M, Rostaminejad M, Negahdaripour M. Contributions of Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences (IJMS) during the COVID-19 Pandemic. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 46:503-505. [PMID: 34840393 PMCID: PMC8611218 DOI: 10.30476/ijms.2021.93381.2469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Akbar Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,
Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mohsen Farazdaghi
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Manica Negahdaripour
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,
Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Turan GB, Dayapoğlu N, Özer Z. Evaluation of care burden and caregiving preparedness in caregivers of patients with epilepsy: A sample in eastern Turkey. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 124:108370. [PMID: 34717246 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study was conducted to evaluate the care burden and caregiving preparedness in caregivers of patients with epilepsy. METHODS This descriptive, cross-sectional study evaluated the caregivers of patients with epilepsy who were referred to the neurology outpatient clinic of a university hospital in Erzurum, eastern Turkey, between February 2020 and February 2021. The study was carried out with 147 volunteers among the patients with epilepsy who were referred to the neurology outpatient clinic between the specified dates. The data were collected with Caregiver Question Form, the Brief Disability Questionnaire (BDQ), the Burden Interview (BI), and the Preparedness for Caregiving Scale (PCS). RESULTS The mean BI score of the caregivers who participated in the study was 43.14 ± 18.08, their mean PCS score was 14.12 ± 7.76, and their mean BDQ score was 10.53 ± 4.65. In the regression analysis conducted, it was found that being married, having little knowledge of patient care, undertaking all of the roles in caregiving and having caregiving duration of 24 months and longer had a negative effect on PCS total score, while having an undergraduate degree and higher had a positive significant effect. It was found that having an undergraduate degree and higher had a negative effect on BI total score, while all of the roles undertaken in caregiving had a positive significant effect on BI total score. It was found that PCS had a negative significant effect on BI total score (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Caregivers of patients with epilepsy had a moderate level of burden and caregiving preparedness, and the patients cared for had a moderate level of disability. Caregiver burden increased as disability of patients with epilepsy and the tasks undertaken in caregiving increased, whereas burden decreased as caregiver education and caregiving preparedness increased.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zülfünaz Özer
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, Istanbul, Turkey
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