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Bistriceanu CE, Vulpoi GA, Stoleriu I, Cuciureanu DI. Effect of Antiseizure Medication on the Salience Network in Patients with Epilepsy with Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures Alone. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1521. [PMID: 39062094 PMCID: PMC11275025 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071521] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of antiepileptic drugs on salience network regions in patients with epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone (EGTCSa). A retrospective observational case-control study was performed on 40 patients diagnosed with epilepsy with EGTCSa and 40 healthy age-matched controls. In LORETA, a voxel-by-voxel analysis between regions from the salience network was performed for both hemispheres, specifically between the anterior cingulate (BA 32 and BA 24) and the sublobar insula (BA 13). Subsequently, a Wilcoxon rank-sum test (the Mann-Whitney U test) was conducted for the equality of medians in the transformation matrix. A comparison was then made between each region of interest as defined by the salience network and the controls. Marked differences were found in the brain regions assessed in patients with EGTCSa treated with valproic acid and carbamazepine compared to the control group; few differences in patients treated with levetiracetam; and no difference was found in the group without treatment compared with those in the control group. These results suggest that ASMs can influence cognitive processes, which provide novel insights toward understanding the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of ASMs administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cătălina Elena Bistriceanu
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.-A.V.); (D.I.C.)
- Elytis Hospital Hope, 43A Gheorghe Saulescu Street, 700010 Iasi, Romania
| | - Georgiana-Anca Vulpoi
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.-A.V.); (D.I.C.)
- Dorna Medical, 700022 Iasi, Romania
| | - Iulian Stoleriu
- Faculty of Mathematics, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University, 11 Bd. Carol I, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Dan Iulian Cuciureanu
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (G.-A.V.); (D.I.C.)
- Neurology Department I, “Prof. Dr. N. Oblu” Emergency Clinical Hospital, 2 Ateneului Street, 700309 Iasi, Romania
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Peña-Ceballos J, Moloney PB, Kilbride RD, Naggar HE, Widdess-Walsh P, Delanty N. Oligoepilepsy and lifelong seizure susceptibility in epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone: Experience at an adult tertiary center. Epilepsy Res 2024; 202:107362. [PMID: 38652996 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2024.107362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone (GTCA) is the least studied syndrome within the idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) spectrum. We characterize a large cohort of adult patients with GTCA to understand natural history and drug responsiveness. METHODS In this retrospective single-center study using our epilepsy electronic record, we evaluated clinical characteristics, seizure outcomes, anti-seizure medication (ASM) response including seizure recurrence after ASM withdrawal, and sex differences in a cohort of GTCA patients aged ≥17 years. RESULTS Within a cohort of 434 IGE patients, 87 patients (20 %) with GTCA were included. The mean age was 34.9 years (range 17-73 years). Forty-six patients (52.8 %) were females. Seventy-two patients (82.8 %) were seizure-free and 15 (17.2 %) had active epilepsy over the previous 12 months. Thirty-four patients (39.1 %) had ≤5 lifetime seizures, aligning with a prior definition of 'oligoepilepsy'. Sixty-five patients (74.7 %) were treated with monotherapy, 19 (21.8 %) were treated with polytherapy, and three were not taking any ASM. Levetiracetam (37.9 %) was the most commonly prescribed ASM, followed by lamotrigine (32.1 %) and valproate (31 %). Seventeen patients (19.5 %) attempted to withdraw their ASM. The rate of seizure recurrence after ASM withdrawal was 88.2 % (15/17), including two patients who relapsed more than 20 years after ASM discontinuation. Females had more seizures in their lifetime and had trialed more ASM compared to males. SIGNIFICANCE GTCA has a relatively good prognosis, with most patients becoming seizure-free on monotherapy. The high rate of seizure recurrence after ASM withdrawal supports lifetime seizure susceptibility. We found potential sex differences in seizure outcomes and ASM response, although further research is needed to validate this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick B Moloney
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland; School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Hany El Naggar
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland; School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Norman Delanty
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland; School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; FutureNeuro, the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, Dublin, Ireland.
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3
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Jiang Y, Zhou X. Idiopathic generalized epilepsy with phantom absences, absence status, and generalized tonic-clonic seizures: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35601. [PMID: 37960785 PMCID: PMC10637568 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Phantom absences refer to mild and short-lasting absence seizures, which are usually accompanied by infrequent generalized tonic-clonic seizures and absence status. Generally, phantom absences do not impair the individual neurological functions. Herein, we report the case of a young woman with idiopathic generalized epilepsy, phantom absences, absence status, and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. PATIENT CONCERNS A 31-year-old woman presented with a 16-year history of paroxysmal convulsions. DIAGNOSES Electroencephalogram (EEG) showed recurrent universal and synchronized 3~4 Hz spike waves and spike-slow waves in the interictal phase with normal background activity. During the ictal phases, EEG revealed bursts of 3~4 Hz spike waves and spike-slow waves that were universal, synchronized, and symmetrical. Additionally, there was 1 seizure episode induced by a 3-Hz flash in the current case. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of idiopathic generalized epilepsy was made. INTERVENTIONS The patient was treated with oral sodium valproate, and the epileptic seizures were controlled. OUTCOMES The frequency of absence seizures was significantly reduced and there were no generalized tonic-clonic seizures. LESSONS Idiopathic generalized epilepsy with phantom absences, absence status, and generalized tonic-clonic seizures is an extremely rare condition. EEG is the exclusive method for diagnosis. Antiepileptic drugs are effective for controlling epileptic seizures in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongning Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Dandong Central Hospital, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiangqin Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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4
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Tatum WO, Mani J, Jin K, Halford JJ, Gloss D, Fahoum F, Maillard L, Mothersill I, Beniczky S. Minimum standards for inpatient long-term video-EEG monitoring: A clinical practice guideline of the international league against epilepsy and international federation of clinical neurophysiology. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 134:111-128. [PMID: 34955428 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this clinical practice guideline is to provide recommendations on the indications and minimum standards for inpatient long-term video-electroencephalographic monitoring (LTVEM). The Working Group of the International League Against Epilepsy and the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology develop guidelines aligned with the Epilepsy Guidelines Task Force. We reviewed published evidence using The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. We found limited high-level evidence aimed at specific aspects of diagnosis for LTVEM performed to evaluate patients with seizures and nonepileptic events (see Table S1). For classification of evidence, we used the Clinical Practice Guideline Process Manual of the American Academy of Neurology. We formulated recommendations for the indications, technical requirements, and essential practice elements of LTVEM to derive minimum standards used in the evaluation of patients with suspected epilepsy using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation). Further research is needed to obtain evidence about long-term outcome effects of LTVEM and establish its clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- William O Tatum
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
| | - Jayanti Mani
- Department of Neurology, Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Kazutaka Jin
- Department of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Jonathan J Halford
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - David Gloss
- Department of Neurology, Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, WV, USA
| | - Firas Fahoum
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Louis Maillard
- Department of Neurology, University of Nancy, UMR7039, University of Lorraine, France.
| | - Ian Mothersill
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Swiss Epilepsy Center, Zurich Switzerland.
| | - Sandor Beniczky
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark; Danish Epilepsy Center, Dianalund, Denmark.
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5
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Tatum WO, Mani J, Jin K, Halford JJ, Gloss D, Fahoum F, Maillard L, Mothersill I, Beniczky S. Minimum standards for inpatient long-term video-electroencephalographic monitoring: A clinical practice guideline of the International League Against Epilepsy and International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Epilepsia 2021; 63:290-315. [PMID: 34897662 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this clinical practice guideline is to provide recommendations on the indications and minimum standards for inpatient long-term video-electroencephalographic monitoring (LTVEM). The Working Group of the International League Against Epilepsy and the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology develop guidelines aligned with the Epilepsy Guidelines Task Force. We reviewed published evidence using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis) statement. We found limited high-level evidence aimed at specific aspects of diagnosis for LTVEM performed to evaluate patients with seizures and nonepileptic events. For classification of evidence, we used the Clinical Practice Guideline Process Manual of the American Academy of Neurology. We formulated recommendations for the indications, technical requirements, and essential practice elements of LTVEM to derive minimum standards used in the evaluation of patients with suspected epilepsy using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation). Further research is needed to obtain evidence about long-term outcome effects of LTVEM and to establish its clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- William O Tatum
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Jayanti Mani
- Department of Neurology, Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Kazutaka Jin
- Department of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Jonathan J Halford
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - David Gloss
- Department of Neurology, Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, West Virginia, USA
| | - Firas Fahoum
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Louis Maillard
- Department of Neurology, University of Nancy, UMR7039, University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Ian Mothersill
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Swiss Epilepsy Center, Zurich,, Switzerland
| | - Sandor Beniczky
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Epilepsy Center, Dianalund, Denmark
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Cerulli Irelli E, Morano A, Fanella M, Orlando B, Salamone EM, Giallonardo AT, Di Bonaventura C. Reconsidering the role of selective sodium channel blockers in genetic generalized epilepsy. Acta Neurol Scand 2021; 144:647-654. [PMID: 34314016 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Selective sodium channel blockers (SSCBs) have a limited use in genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE), due to their well-known risk of seizure worsening. Although their therapeutic potential in GGE has been suggested by recent evidence, electro-clinical data supporting their prescription are lacking. We aimed to investigate SSCB safety and effectiveness in a GGE cohort. METHODS Subjects who received SSCBs and had ≥5-year follow-up were enrolled. Lamotrigine was excluded from analysis due to its broader pharmacodynamic spectrum and its better-documented efficacy in GGE. RESULTS Fifty-six patients (median follow-up 28.5 years) were included. The most used SSCB was carbamazepine in 40 subjects. At the last medical observation, only 9 subjects were still receiving SSCBs. The occurrence of generalized polyspike-wave discharges (GPSWDs) predicted reduced SSCB retention in Cox multivariate analysis. A seizure reduction ≥50% occurred in 53.5% (30/56) of subjects when considering all seizure types; however, the proportion of responders increased to 67.9% when considering only generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS). GPSWDs were significantly associated with a reduced response rate, whereas GGE with GTCS only syndrome with a better outcome. The switch from SSCBs to antiseizure medications licensed for GGE improved seizure control in 65% of patients. Seizure worsening was reported in 5/56 patients; juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and a family history of epilepsy were significantly associated with seizure aggravation. CONCLUSION SSCBs appeared effective on GTCS, but epilepsy aggravation and unsatisfactory control of other seizure types were not uncommon. Our study contributes to identifying new clinical and EEG variables associated with SSCB effectiveness and safety which may help neurologists in patients' management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Cerulli Irelli
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Alessandra Morano
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Martina Fanella
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Biagio Orlando
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Enrico M Salamone
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Anna T Giallonardo
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Carlo Di Bonaventura
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
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7
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Seneviratne U, Cook M, D'Souza W. Brainwaves beyond diagnosis: Wider applications of electroencephalography in idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Epilepsia 2021; 63:22-41. [PMID: 34755907 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Electroencephalography (EEG) has long been used as a versatile and noninvasive diagnostic tool in epilepsy. With the advent of digital EEG, more advanced applications of EEG have emerged. Compared with technologically advanced practice in focal epilepsies, the utilization of EEG in idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) has been lagging, often restricted to a simple diagnostic tool. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of broader applications of EEG beyond this narrow scope, discussing how the current clinical and research applications of EEG may potentially be extended to IGE. The current literature, although limited, suggests that EEG can be used in syndromic classification, guiding antiseizure medication therapy, predicting prognosis, unraveling biorhythms, and investigating functional brain connectivity of IGE. We emphasize the need for longer recordings, particularly 24-h ambulatory EEG, to capture discharges reflecting circadian and sleep-wake cycle-associated variations for wider EEG applications in IGE. Finally, we highlight the challenges and limitations of the current body of literature and suggest future directions to encourage and enhance more extensive applications of this potent tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udaya Seneviratne
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neuroscience, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Cook
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wendyl D'Souza
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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8
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Beniczky S, Rubboli G, Covanis A, Sperling MR. Absence-to-bilateral-tonic-clonic seizure: A generalized seizure type. Neurology 2020; 95:e2009-e2015. [PMID: 32817392 PMCID: PMC7682845 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000010470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To test the hypothesis that absence seizures can evolve to generalized tonic-clonic seizures, we documented electroclinical features of this novel seizure type. Methods In 4 large video-EEG databases, we identified recordings of seizures starting with impaired awareness that, without returning to baseline interictal state, evolved to generalized tonic-clonic seizures. We extracted the detailed semiologic and electrographic characteristics of these seizures, and we documented the clinical background, diagnoses, and therapeutic responses in these patients. Results We identified 12 seizures from 12 patients. All seizures started with a period of impaired awareness and bursts of generalized spike or polyspike and slow-wave discharges, the hallmark of absence seizures. Without returning to baseline, the nonmotor (absence) phase was followed by tonic-clonic convulsions. We called this novel generalized seizure type absence-to-bilateral-tonic-clonic seizure. Most patients had idiopathic generalized epilepsies, although with a high incidence of unusual features and poor therapeutic response. Conclusions Absence-to-bilateral-tonic-clonic seizures are a novel generalized seizure type. Clinicians should be aware of this seizure for correctly diagnosing patients. This novel seizure type may further elucidate generalized ictogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sándor Beniczky
- From the Department of Clinical Neurophysiology (S.B.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; Department of Clinical Medicine (S.B.), Aarhus University and Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital; Department of Neurology (G.R.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; University of Copenhagen (G.R.), Denmark; Neurology Unit (G.R.), IRCCS Institute of Neurological Science, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna; Italy; Department of Child Neurology (A.C.), the Children's Hospital "Agia Sophia," Athens, Greece; and Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (M.R.S.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Guido Rubboli
- From the Department of Clinical Neurophysiology (S.B.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; Department of Clinical Medicine (S.B.), Aarhus University and Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital; Department of Neurology (G.R.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; University of Copenhagen (G.R.), Denmark; Neurology Unit (G.R.), IRCCS Institute of Neurological Science, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna; Italy; Department of Child Neurology (A.C.), the Children's Hospital "Agia Sophia," Athens, Greece; and Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (M.R.S.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Athanasios Covanis
- From the Department of Clinical Neurophysiology (S.B.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; Department of Clinical Medicine (S.B.), Aarhus University and Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital; Department of Neurology (G.R.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; University of Copenhagen (G.R.), Denmark; Neurology Unit (G.R.), IRCCS Institute of Neurological Science, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna; Italy; Department of Child Neurology (A.C.), the Children's Hospital "Agia Sophia," Athens, Greece; and Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (M.R.S.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Michael R Sperling
- From the Department of Clinical Neurophysiology (S.B.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; Department of Clinical Medicine (S.B.), Aarhus University and Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital; Department of Neurology (G.R.), Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund; University of Copenhagen (G.R.), Denmark; Neurology Unit (G.R.), IRCCS Institute of Neurological Science, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna; Italy; Department of Child Neurology (A.C.), the Children's Hospital "Agia Sophia," Athens, Greece; and Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (M.R.S.), Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
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9
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Nobili L, de Weerd A, Rubboli G, Beniczky S, Derry C, Eriksson S, Halasz P, Högl B, Santamaria J, Khatami R, Ryvlin P, Rémi J, Tinuper P, Bassetti C, Manni R, Koutroumanidis M, Vignatelli L. Standard procedures for the diagnostic pathway of sleep-related epilepsies and comorbid sleep disorders: A European Academy of Neurology, European Sleep Research Society and International League against Epilepsy-Europe consensus review. J Sleep Res 2020; 29:e13184. [PMID: 32959468 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some epilepsy syndromes (sleep-related epilepsies [SRE]) have a strong link with sleep. Comorbid sleep disorders are common in patients with SRE and can exert a negative impact on seizure control and quality of life. PURPOSES To define the standard procedures for the diagnostic pathway of patients with possible SRE (scenario 1) and the general management of patients with SRE and comorbidity with sleep disorders (scenario 2). METHODS The project was conducted under the auspices of the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), the European Sleep Research Society (ESRS) and the International League against Epilepsy (ILAE) Europe. The framework of the document entailed the following phases: conception of the clinical scenarios; literature review; statements regarding the standard procedures. For literature search a step-wise approach starting from systematic reviews to primary studies was applied. Published studies were identified from the National Library of Medicine's MEDLINE database and Cochrane Library. RESULTS Scenario 1: despite a low quality of evidence, recommendations on anamnestic evaluation, tools for capturing the event at home or in the laboratory are provided for specific SRE. Scenario 2: Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders (especially respiratory disorders) in patients with SRE are likely to be beneficial for seizures control. CONCLUSIONS Definitive procedures for evaluating patients with SRE are lacking. We provide advice that could be of help for standardising and improving the diagnostic approach of specific SRE. The importance of identifying and treating specific sleep disorders for the management and outcome of patients with SRE is underlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lino Nobili
- Child Neuropsychiatry, IRCCS G. Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience - Rehabilitation-Ophthalmology - Genetics - Child and Maternal Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Al de Weerd
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Zwolle, Netherlands
| | - Guido Rubboli
- Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sándor Beniczky
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christopher Derry
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Sleep Medicine, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sofia Eriksson
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Peter Halasz
- National Institute of Clinical Neuroscience, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Birgit Högl
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Joan Santamaria
- Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramin Khatami
- Department of Neurology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Barmelweid Academy, Center of Sleep Medicine, Sleep Research and Epilepsy, Klinik Barmelweid, Barmelweid, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Ryvlin
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jan Rémi
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University of Munich Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Paolo Tinuper
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Ospedale Bellaria, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Bassetti
- Neurology Department, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Raffaele Manni
- Unit of Sleep Medicine and Epilepsy, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Luca Vignatelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Ospedale Bellaria, Bologna, Italy
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10
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Nobili L, de Weerd A, Rubboli G, Beniczky S, Derry C, Eriksson S, Halasz P, Högl B, Santamaria J, Khatami R, Ryvlin P, Rémi J, Tinuper P, Bassetti C, Manni R, Koutroumanidis M, Vignatelli L. Standard procedures for the diagnostic pathway of sleep-related epilepsies and comorbid sleep disorders: an EAN, ESRS and ILAE-Europe consensus review. Eur J Neurol 2020; 28:15-32. [PMID: 32959446 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Some epilepsy syndromes (sleep-related epilepsies, SREs) have a strong link with sleep. Comorbid sleep disorders are common in patients with SRE and can exert a negative impact on seizure control and quality of life. Our purpose was to define the standard procedures for the diagnostic pathway of patients with possible SRE (scenario 1) and the general management of patients with SRE and comorbidity with sleep disorders (scenario 2). METHODS The project was conducted under the auspices of the European Academy of Neurology, the European Sleep Research Society and the International League Against Epilepsy Europe. The framework entailed the following phases: conception of the clinical scenarios; literature review; statements regarding the standard procedures. For the literature search a stepwise approach starting from systematic reviews to primary studies was applied. Published studies were identified from the National Library of Medicine's MEDLINE database and Cochrane Library. RESULTS Scenario 1: Despite a low quality of evidence, recommendations on anamnestic evaluation and tools for capturing the event at home or in the laboratory are provided for specific SREs. Scenario 2: Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders (especially respiratory disorders) in patients with SRE are likely to be beneficial for seizure control. CONCLUSIONS Definitive procedures for evaluating patients with SRE are lacking. Advice is provided that could be of help for standardizing and improving the diagnostic approach of specific SREs. The importance of identifying and treating specific sleep disorders for the management and outcome of patients with SRE is underlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Nobili
- Child Neuropsychiatry, IRCCS G. Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience - Rehabilitation - Ophthalmology - Genetics - Child and Maternal Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Italy
| | - A de Weerd
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - G Rubboli
- Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S Beniczky
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Danish Epilepsy Centre, Dianalund, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - C Derry
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Sleep Medicine, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - S Eriksson
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - P Halasz
- National Institute of Clinical Neuroscience, Budapest, Hungary
| | - B Högl
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - J Santamaria
- Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Khatami
- Department of Neurology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Barmelweid Academy, Center of Sleep Medicine, Sleep Research and Epilepsy, Klinik Barmelweid AG, Barmelweid, Switzerland
| | - P Ryvlin
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - J Rémi
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University of Munich Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - P Tinuper
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Ospedale Bellaria, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Bassetti
- Department of Neurology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Neurology Department, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - R Manni
- Unit of Sleep Medicine and Epilepsy, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Koutroumanidis
- Department of Neurology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - L Vignatelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Ospedale Bellaria, Bologna, Italy
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11
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Ke M, Jin B, Liu G, Yang X. Impairments of cingulated cortex in the generalized tonic-clonic seizure epilepsy by combining morphological and functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging. J Integr Neurosci 2018; 16:429-439. [PMID: 28891522 DOI: 10.3233/jin-170026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies suggested that the patients with generalized tonic-clonic seizure had structural abnormalities in the thalamus, cingulated cortex and some other specific brain regions. Concurrently, the abnormality in thalamocortical network and basal ganglia network has been found in idiopathic generalized epilepsy. The cingulated cortex, a nexus of information processing and regulation in human brain, is implicated in the propagation of generalized spike in IGE and the previous studies have suggested that the structural features and functional connectivity of the cingulated cortex have been changed. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the alterations in the cingulated cortex in generalized tonic-clonic seizure by combining morphological and functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging. 19 patients with generalized tonic-clonic seizure and 19 age-and gender-matched healthy controls were involved in the study. The three-dimensional high-resolution T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired for voxel-based morphometry analysis, two-sample t-test run on the T1-weighted structural images revealed clusters exhibiting significant decreases in grey-matter volume in the generalized tonic-clonic seizure group, located within the cingulated cortex, thalamus, frontal lobe, temporal lobe, and cerebellum. The decreased gray matter volume in the cingulated cortex indicating that the cingulated cortex has structural impairments in generalized tonic-clonic seizure patients. The bilateral cingulated cortex, as detected with decreased gray matter volume in patients with generalized tonic-clonic seizure through voxel-based morphometry analysis, was selected as seed regions for functional connectivity analysis. Compared with controls, we found decreased functional connectivity to left anterior cingulated cortex (ROI1) in the cuneus, frontal lobe and precentral gyrus. There was no significant result when seeding at the right anterior cingulum gyrus (ROI2). The results of the ROI3 (left middle cingulum) revealed the significantly decreased functional connectivity in the parietal lobe and frontal lobe. Seeding at the ROI4 (right middle cingulum), decreased functional connectivity showed in the occipital lobe, temporal lobe, frontal lobe. Seeding at the ROI5 (left posterior cingulum), decreased functional connectivity showed in the temporal lobe and frontal lobe. Seeding at the ROI6 (right posterior cingulum), decreased functional connectivity showed in the cuneus and frontal lobe. We did not find any increased functional connectivity of the posterior cingulated cortex (ROI3-ROI6) for the generalized tonic-clonic seizure patients in comparison to the controls (p<0.001). Our findings demonstrated that the abnormalities of the functional connectivity were likely to be related to the decreased gray matter volume in the cingulated cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Ke
- College of Computer and Communication, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730050, China
| | - Bixia Jin
- College of Computer and Communication, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730050, China
| | - Guangyao Liu
- Department of Nuclear magnetic resonance, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, 733000, China
| | - Xiaoping Yang
- Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Lanzhou General Hospital of Lanzhou Military Command, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730050, China
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12
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Tatum W, Rubboli G, Kaplan P, Mirsatari S, Radhakrishnan K, Gloss D, Caboclo L, Drislane F, Koutroumanidis M, Schomer D, Kasteleijn-Nolst Trenite D, Cook M, Beniczky S. Clinical utility of EEG in diagnosing and monitoring epilepsy in adults. Clin Neurophysiol 2018; 129:1056-1082. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2018.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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13
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Poleon S, Szaflarski JP. Photosensitivity in generalized epilepsies. Epilepsy Behav 2017; 68:225-233. [PMID: 28215998 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.10.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Photosensitivity, which is the hallmark of photosensitive epilepsy (PSE), is described as an abnormal EEG response to visual stimuli known as a photoparoxysmal response (PPR). The PPR is a well-recognized phenomenon, occurring in 2-14% of patients with epilepsy but its pathophysiology is not clearly understood. PPR is electrographically described as 2-5Hz spike, spike-wave, or slow wave complexes with frontal and paracentral prevalence. Diagnosis of PPR is confirmed using intermittent photic stimulation (IPS) as well as video monitoring. The PPR can be elicited by certain types of visual stimuli including flicker, high contrast gratings, moving patterns, and rapidly modulating luminance patterns which may be encountered during e.g., watching television, playing video games, or attending discotheques. Photosensitivity may present in different idiopathic (genetic) epilepsy syndromes e.g. juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) as well as non-IGE syndromes e.g. severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy. Consequently, PPR is present in patients with diverse seizure types including absence, myoclonic, and generalized tonic-clonic (GTC) seizures. Across syndromes, abnormalities in structural connectivity, functional connectivity, cortical excitability, cortical morphology, and behavioral and neuropsychological function have been reported. Treatment of photosensitivity includes antiepileptic drug administration, and the use of non-pharmacological agents, e.g. tinted or polarizing glasses, as well as occupational measures, e.g. avoidance of certain stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervonne Poleon
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Neurology and UAB Epilepsy Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Neurology and UAB Epilepsy Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
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14
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Bin G, Wang T, Zeng H, He X, Li F, Zhang J, Huang B. Patterns of Gray Matter Abnormalities in Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy: A Meta-Analysis of Voxel-Based Morphology Studies. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0169076. [PMID: 28060866 PMCID: PMC5218409 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0169076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to identify the consistent regions of gray matter volume (GMV) abnormalities in idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE), and to study the difference of GMV abnormalities among IGE subsyndromes by applying activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis. METHODS A systematic review of VBM studies on GMV of patients with absence epilepsy (AE), juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME), IGE and controls indexed in PubMed and ScienceDirect from January 1999 to June 2016 was conducted. A total of 12 IGE studies, including 7 JME and 3 AE studies, were selected. Meta-analysis was performed on these studies by using the pooled and within-subtypes analysis (www.brainmap.org). Based on the above results, between-subtypes contrast analysis was carried out to detect the abnormal GMV regions common in and unique to each subtype as well. RESULTS IGE demonstrated significant GMV increase in right ventral lateral nucleus (VL) and right medial frontal gyrus, and significant GMV decrease in bilateral pulvinar. For JME, significant GMV increase was seen in right medial frontal gyrus, right anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), while significant GMV decrease was found in right pulvinar. In AE, the most significant GMV increase was found in right VL, and slight GMV reduction was seen in right medial dorsal nucleus, right subcallosal gyrus, left caudate and left precuneus. No overlapped and unique regions with significant GMV abnormalities were found between JME and AE. SIGNIFICANCE This meta-analysis demonstrated that thalamo-frontal network was a structure with significant GMV abnormality in IGE, and the IGE subsyndromes showed different GMV abnormal regions. These observations may provide instructions on the clinical diagnosis of IGE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Bin
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R, China
| | - Tianfu Wang
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R, China
| | - Hongwu Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R, China
| | - Xiaoming He
- Department of Neurology, Xiangyang Central Hospital/Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, P.R, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Radiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital/Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, P.R, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Medicine, Health Science Centre, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R, China
- * E-mail: (BH); (JZ)
| | - Bingsheng Huang
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R, China
- * E-mail: (BH); (JZ)
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15
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Koutroumanidis M. Comment on the recent ILAE special report on the definition and classification of status epilepticus. Epilepsia 2016; 57:1199-200. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.13369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Koutroumanidis
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsy; St Thomas' Hospital; London United Kingdom
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16
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Rosenow F, Klein KM, Hamer HM. Non-invasive EEG evaluation in epilepsy diagnosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2015; 15:425-44. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2015.1025382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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17
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Tsiptsios DI, Howard RS, Koutroumanidis MA. Electroencephalographic assessment of patients with epileptic seizures. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 10:1869-86. [DOI: 10.1586/ern.10.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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18
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Toyota T, Akamatsu N, Tanaka A, Tsuji S, Uozumi T. Electroencephalographic features of benign adult familial myoclonic epilepsy. Clin Neurophysiol 2013; 125:250-4. [PMID: 24011985 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2013.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate electroencephalographic (EEG) features of benign adult familial myoclonic epilepsy (BAFME). METHODS We reviewed interictal EEG features in patients with BAFME treated between April 2005 and November 2012 at a tertiary referral center. The diagnostic criteria for BAFME were the presence of infrequent generalized tonic-clonic seizures, myoclonus or myoclonic seizures, and autosomal dominant inheritance. Interictal EEG findings of epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizure only (EGTCS) were reviewed for comparison. We randomly selected 10 generalized spike/polyspike and wave complexes (GSW) for each BAFME patient and measured the duration of them. Photic stimulation and hyperventilation were performed in all. RESULTS Nineteen (eight men, 11 women) patients with BAFME were included in this study. The mean frequency of GSW was 4.3±1.0Hz (mean±SD, n=14) in BAFME and 3.2±0.8Hz (n=10) in EGTCS. There was a statistically significant difference (p=0.008) between the two. Photoparoxysmal responses (PPR) were noted in 18 (95%) patients with BAFME but 1 (10%) with EGTCS. CONCLUSION Faster frequency of GSW, compared with that in EGTCS, accompanied by PPR may be characteristic EEG features of BAFME. SIGNIFICANCE These findings may lead the diagnosis of BAFME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Toyota
- Department of Neurology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health School of Medicine, Kitakyushu, Japan.
| | - Naoki Akamatsu
- Department of Neurology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health School of Medicine, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Akihiro Tanaka
- Department of Neurology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health School of Medicine, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Sadatoshi Tsuji
- Department of Medical Science Technology, International University of Health and Welfare, Fukuoka School of Health and Welfare, Okawa, Japan
| | - Takenori Uozumi
- Department of Neurology, Wakamatsu Hospital of the University of Occupational and Environmental Health School of Medicine, Kitakyushu, Japan
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19
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Koutroumanidis M, Tsiptsios D, Kokkinos V, Kostopoulos GK. Focal and generalized EEG paroxysms in childhood absence epilepsy: topographic associations and distinctive behaviors during the first cycle of non-REM sleep. Epilepsia 2012; 53:840-9. [PMID: 22360352 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2012.03424.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To better understand the nature of the focal spike-wave discharges (FSWDs) and focally led generalized spike-wave discharges (GSWDs) in typical childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) and by implication their nosologic and taxonomic significance. METHODS Twenty-four abnormal video-electroencephalography (EEG) studies from 13 consecutive children with CAE and good response to appropriate antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were analyzed. We studied the association between the topography of absence onset and the ictal automatisms, and the topographic correlation between FSWDs and GSWDs and their respective behavior during hyperventilation and the different states of phasic and nonphasic non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. GSWDs were considered as of "focal" onset if a lead-in could be visibly recognized at a paper speed of 60 mm/s, and were classified by their topography. KEY FINDINGS (1) Multifocal absences occurred in 10 children; anterior onset was noted in 81 absences (73.6%) from 12 children and posterior in 18 (16.4%) from 7 children; there was no association between topography of absence onset and ictal automatisms; (2) FSWDs occurred in 85% of children and were multifocal in 73% of them; 85% of FSWDs were anterior and 14% posterior; (3) there was good topographic association between FSWDs and the leading spike of GSWDs of "focal" onset in all children with FSWDs; (4) both FSWDs and GSWDs increased during hyperventilation; (5) FSWDs occurred mainly during noncyclical NREM sleep and during periods of reduced vigilance of cyclical NREM sleep, whereas GSWDs occurred during the periods of enhanced vigilance of NREM sleep; GSWDs occurred significantly more frequently than FSWDs at the transition from reduced to enhanced vigilance of NREM sleep. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings suggest that in CAE focal EEG paroxysms reflect a system of multifocal nonlocalizing electrically unstable cortical areas that under the facilitatory influence of exogenous or endogenous factors like sleep instability can foster a corticothalamic response of sufficient strength to generate 3-Hz GSWDs that are conditionally sustainable and potentially ictal. FSWDs can be viewed as incomplete forms of the GSWDs; together they define the EEG identity of idiopathic "generalized" epileptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michalis Koutroumanidis
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsies, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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20
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Abstract
Idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) is classified into several subsyndromes based on clinical and electroencephalography (EEG) features. The EEG signature of IGE is bisynchronous, symmetric, and generalized spike-wave complex; although focal, irregular, and so called "fragments" of discharges are not uncommon. Other characteristic EEG features include polyspikes, polyspike-wave discharges, occipital intermittent rhythmic delta activity, and photoparoxysmal response. Both human and animal data suggest involvement of the thalamus and the cortex in the generation of spike-wave discharges in IGE. Circadian variations of generalized epileptiform discharges are well described, and these can be useful in diagnostic confirmation. Those discharges tend to occur more often after awakening and during cyclic alternating pattern phase-A of non-rapid eye movement sleep. Activation procedures such as hyperventilation, intermittent photic stimulation, eye closure, and fixation-off are useful techniques to increase the yield of both interictal and ictal EEG abnormalities. Although not in routine use, specific triggers such as pattern stimulation and cognitive tasks may also be of value in eliciting rare reflex seizure-related EEG abnormalities. Variations of EEG abnormalities are evident between different electroclinical syndromes. EEG is also affected by certain external as well as internal factors, which should be borne in mind when interpreting EEG studies in IGE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udaya Seneviratne
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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21
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Camfield P, Camfield C. Idiopathic generalized epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures (IGE-GTC): a population-based cohort with >20 year follow up for medical and social outcome. Epilepsy Behav 2010; 18:61-3. [PMID: 20471324 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2010.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Revised: 02/18/2010] [Accepted: 02/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Children with idiopathic generalized epilepsy with only generalized tonic-clonic seizures (IGE-GTC) were selected from the Nova Scotia Childhood Epilepsy population-based cohort. All were neurologically and intellectually normal with generalized spike-wave on EEG. Of the epilepsy cohort of 692, 40(5.8%) had IGE-GTC. Follow-up averaged 22.2+/-7.6 years. Twenty-seven (75%) had a complete terminal remission (seizure-free, off medication) for 16.1+/-8.6 years. There were no deaths or intractable seizures. For those >21 years of age at follow up (N=30), major adverse social outcomes were psychiatric diagnosis 8 (27%), no high school graduation 12 (40%), pregnancy outside a stable relationship 11 (38%), living alone 7 (23%), unemployment 10 (33%) and criminal conviction 2 (7%). Satisfaction with their lives, friendships and social activities were reported by 55-65%. IGE-GTC is a recognizable, relatively benign epilepsy syndrome with complete remission in 75%. Learning problems and unsatisfactory social outcome are unfortunately common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Camfield
- Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University and IWK Health Centre, 5850 University Ave., Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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22
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Koutroumanidis M, Tsiptsios D, Kokkinos V, Lysitsas K, Tsiropoulos I. Generalized spike-wave discharges and seizures with focal ictal transformation: mechanisms in absence (CAE) and myoclonic (JME) IGEs. Epilepsia 2009; 50:2326-9. [PMID: 19785670 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2009.02316.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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23
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Hughes JR. Absence seizures: a review of recent reports with new concepts. Epilepsy Behav 2009; 15:404-12. [PMID: 19632158 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2009.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2009] [Revised: 06/02/2009] [Accepted: 06/07/2009] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Absence seizures with bilateral spike-wave (SW) complexes at 3Hz are divided into the childhood form, with onset at around 6 years of age, and the juvenile form, with onset usually at 12 years of age. These seizures typically last 9-12s and, at times, are activated by hyperventilation and occasionally by photic stimulation. Generalized tonic-clonic (GTC) seizures may also occur, especially in the juvenile form. There may be cognitive changes, in addition to linguistic and behavioral problems. Possible mechanisms for epileptogenesis may involve GABAergic systems, but especially T-calcium channels. The thalamus, especially the reticular nucleus, plays a major role, as does the frontal cortex, mainly the dorsolateral and orbital frontal areas, to the extent that some investigators have concluded that absence seizures are not truly generalized, but rather have selective cortical networks, mainly ventromesial frontal areas and the somatosensory cortex. The latter network is a departure from the more popular concept of a generalized epilepsy. Between the "centrencephalic" and "corticoreticular" theories, a "unified" theory is presented. Proposed genes include T-calcium channel gene CACNA1H, likely a susceptible gene in the Chinese Han population and a contributory gene in Caucasians. Electroencephalography has revealed an interictal increase in prefrontal activity, essential for the buildup of the ictal SW complexes maximal in that region. Infraslow activity can also be seen during ictal SW complexes. For treatment, counter to common belief, ethosuximide may not increase GTC seizures, as it reduces low-threshold T-calcium currents in thalamic neurons. Valproic acid and lamotrigine are also first-line medications. In addition, zonisamide and levetiracetam can be very helpful in absence epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Hughes
- Department of Neurology, University of Illinois Medical Center (M/C 796), 912 South Wood Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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24
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Bonakis A, Koutroumanidis M. Epileptic discharges and phasic sleep phenomena in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. Epilepsia 2009; 50:2434-45. [PMID: 19453715 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2009.02110.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Epileptiform discharges (EDs) may be part of the internal arousing stimuli that affect the quality of sleep in patients with epilepsies. We studied the association between EDs and sleep phasic phenomena, and its relevance to seizure control in 19 patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME). METHODS We analyzed the first cycle of non-REM (rapid eye movement) sleep in 22 sleep-deprived electroencephalography (EEG) studies and classified EDs within the cyclical alternating pattern (CAP) frame, grouping separately the EDs that occurred at the transition between phases (B to A and A to B). RESULTS Within CAP periods, 36.7% of EDs occurred in A phase, 26.7% in B phase, 31.5% at "B to A" transition, and 3% at "A to B" transition. Poor seizure control was strongly associated with increased EDs in phase B (p = 0.0016) and at the "B to A" transition (p = 0.002), but marginally with increased EDs in phase A (p = 0.03). Focal spikes were increased in phase B. DISCUSSION EDs are facilitated by increased vigilance (A phase), but they may also enhance CAP cycling by generating A phases when those that occur at the "B to A" transition are interpreted as successfully breaking through the state of reduced arousal (phase B) because of increased epileptic pressure. This promotes sleep instability and further fosters epileptic activity, and conceivably seizures. This hypothesis is also supported by the strong correlation between EDs during phase B (including "B" and "B to A") and poor seizure control. The enhanced nonlocalizing focal spikes in phase B may reflect successful inhibition of generalized EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Bonakis
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsies, Guy's, St Thomas' and Evelina NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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25
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Panayiotopoulos CP. Typical absence seizures and related epileptic syndromes: assessment of current state and directions for future research. Epilepsia 2009; 49:2131-9. [PMID: 19049569 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2008.01777.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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26
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Hara E, Akanuma N, Adachi N, Hara K, Koutroumanidis M. Suicide attempts in adult patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2009; 63:225-9. [PMID: 19335392 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1819.2009.01932.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To study clinical features of adult patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy with special attention to suicidal behavior. METHODS We reviewed the medical records of 145 consecutive adult patients with electro-clinically confirmed idiopathic generalized epilepsy and identified those with a history of at least one attempted suicide. Clinical variables in relation to their epilepsy and psychiatric conditions were analyzed. RESULTS Seven patients (4.8%) had a history of suicide attempts with drug overdose, and one of these patients committed suicide after multiple attempts. All attempts were made interictally without direct relation to their epileptic seizures. All had at least one co-morbid mental disorder (two with dual diagnosis). Although their psychiatric diagnoses varied, they all appeared to have increased emotional instability and poor impulse control. Only one patient's attempt was directly associated with her co-morbid depression. CONCLUSIONS Physicians managing people with epilepsies should be aware of psychiatric disturbances and suicidal behavior in idiopathic generalized epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eriko Hara
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology & Epilepsies, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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