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Sullivan J, Benítez A, Roth J, Andrews JS, Shah D, Butcher E, Jones A, Cross JH. A systematic literature review on the global epidemiology of Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome: Prevalence, incidence, diagnosis, and mortality. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1240-1263. [PMID: 38252068 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17866] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) are rare developmental and epileptic encephalopathies associated with seizure and nonseizure symptoms. A comprehensive understanding of how many individuals are affected globally, the diagnostic journey they face, and the extent of mortality associated with these conditions is lacking. Here, we summarize and evaluate published data on the epidemiology of DS and LGS in terms of prevalence, incidence, diagnosis, genetic mutations, and mortality and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) rates. The full study protocol is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022316930). After screening 2172 deduplicated records, 91 unique records were included; 67 provided data on DS only, 17 provided data on LGS only, and seven provided data on both. Case definitions varied considerably across studies, particularly for LGS. Incidence and prevalence estimates per 100 000 individuals were generally higher for LGS than for DS (LGS: incidence proportion = 14.5-28, prevalence = 5.8-60.8; DS: incidence proportion = 2.2-6.5, prevalence = 1.2-6.5). Diagnostic delay was frequently reported for LGS, with a wider age range at diagnosis reported than for DS (DS, 1.6-9.2 years; LGS, 2-15 years). Genetic screening data were reported by 63 studies; all screened for SCN1A variants, and only one study specifically focused on individuals with LGS. Individuals with DS had a higher mortality estimate per 1000 person-years than individuals with LGS (DS, 15.84; LGS, 6.12) and a lower median age at death. SUDEP was the most frequently reported cause of death for individuals with DS. Only four studies reported mortality information for LGS, none of which included SUDEP. This systematic review highlights the paucity of epidemiological data available for DS and especially LGS, demonstrating the need for further research and adoption of standardized diagnostic criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Sullivan
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Arturo Benítez
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeannine Roth
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J Scott Andrews
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Drishti Shah
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - J Helen Cross
- University College London, National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D. Emotional experiences of family caregivers of children with Dravet syndrome. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 142:109193. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D. Emotional experiences of family caregivers of children with Dravet syndrome. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 142:109193. [PMID: 37028149 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the psychosocial implications of Dravet syndrome (DS) are much more serious and far-reaching than in other types of epilepsy, caring for a DS child seriously affects the entire family. This study describes the emotional experiences of family caregivers of DS children and evaluates the way caregiving affects their perceived quality of life. METHODS An anonymous, self-administered online questionnaire was sent to family caregivers of DS children through the online patient advocacy organization the Association for People with Severe Refractory Epilepsy DRAVET.PL. It focussed on the psychosocial impact of caregiving for DS children, the perceived burden of caregiving, caregivers' emotional experiences and feelings related to caregiving, and the impact of DS on the perceived quality of life. RESULTS Caregivers stressed that caring for a DS child is associated with a significant psychosocial and emotional burden that affects the entire family. Although most caregivers reported that it was the child's health problems and behavioral and psychological disorders that were the most challenging aspects of caregiving, they were also burdened by the lack of emotional support. As caregivers were profoundly engaged in caregiving, they experienced a variety of distressing emotions, including feelings of helplessness, anxiety and fear, anticipated grief, depression, and impulsivity. Many caregivers also reported that their children's disease disrupted their relationships with their spouses, family, and healthy children. As caregivers reported experiencing role overload, physical fatigue, and mental exhaustion, they stressed the extent to which caregiving for DS children impaired their quality of life, their social and professional life, and was a source of financial burden. CONCLUSIONS As this study identified specific burden domains affecting DS caregivers' well-being family carers often need special attention, support, and help. To alleviate the humanistic burden of DS carers a bio-psychosocial approach focusing on physical, mental, and psychosocial interventions should include both DS children and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Banerjee B, Prabhu SM, Lagudu G, Shetty M, Hegde S. A Retrospective Study of the Profile and Outcome of Children with Dravet Syndrome in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Southern India. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC EPILEPSY 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1758660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective Dravet syndrome (DS) is an epileptic syndrome that shares similarities with febrile seizures (FS), especially before 1 year of age, making it challenging to differentiate the two. We describe the profile of DS, with emphasis on the first year of life that can aid in early diagnosis.
Methods The clinical, investigative, treatment, and outcome profiles of DS patients presenting to the outpatient department (OPD) between October 2016 and December 2021 in a single tertiary care center in South India were analyzed.
Results Seventeen children were studied, with median age at presentation of 30 (interquartile range [IQR] 10, 47) months. The median age at seizure onset was 5 (IQR 3, 6) months. First seizure semiology were generalized tonic-clonic (GTCS) (35.3%), focal (52.9%), and myoclonic (11.8%). Fever preceding first seizure was seen in 76.5%. Status epilepticus (SE; ≥30 minutes) and prolonged seizures (>10 minutes) were seen in 41.2% each, and >5 seizures were seen in 82.4% in the first year of life. The most frequent subsequent seizure types were focal seizures (76.5%) and GTCS (76.5%). Other seizure triggers included vaccination (52.9%), light (17.6%), and Hot-bath (5.8%). Delayed developmental milestones for age were found in 52.9% at diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain and electroencephalogram were normal in 76.4% each. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in SCN1A gene were seen in 64.7%. Average of 3.9 anti-seizure medications were used. After optimization of treatment seizure frequency reduced in 40% and 4/15 (26.6%) had SE.
Conclusion In addition to characteristic clinical profile of DS we observed atypical presentations: an earlier age of seizure onset and afebrile seizure at onset. Delayed diagnosis was noted. Seizure control improved and SE reduced on optimal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bidisha Banerjee
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sameeta M. Prabhu
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Gowthami Lagudu
- Department of Paediatrics, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Mitesh Shetty
- Department of Genetics, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sridevi Hegde
- Department of Genetics, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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Hajtovic S, LoPresti MA, Zhang L, Katlowitz KA, Kizek DJ, Lam S. The role of vagus nerve stimulation in genetic etiologies of drug-resistant epilepsy: a meta-analysis. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2022:1-14. [PMID: 35303699 DOI: 10.3171/2022.1.peds222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) affects many children. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) may improve seizure control; however, its role in children with genetic etiologies of epilepsy is not well described. The authors systematically reviewed the literature to examine the effectiveness of VNS in this cohort. METHODS In January 2021, the authors performed a systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS/Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases to investigate the impact of VNS on seizure outcomes in children with genetic etiologies of epilepsy. Primary outcomes included seizure freedom rate, ≥ 90% seizure reduction rate, and ≥ 50% seizure reduction rate. Secondary outcomes were seizure severity and quality of life (QOL), including cognitive, functional, and behavioral outcomes. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS The authors identified 125 articles, of which 47 with 216 nonduplicate patients were analyzed. Common diagnoses were Dravet syndrome (DS) (92/216 patients [42.6%]) and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) (63/216 [29.2%]). Seizure freedom was not reported in any patient with DS; the pooled proportion (95% CI) of patients with ≥ 50% seizure reduction was 41% (21%-58%). Secondary cognitive outcomes of VNS were variable in DS patients, but these patients demonstrated benefits in seizure duration and status epilepticus. In TSC patients, the pooled (95% CI) seizure freedom rate was 40% (12%-71%), ≥ 90% seizure reduction rate was 31% (8%-56%), and ≥ 50% reduction rate was 68% (48%-91%). Regarding the secondary outcomes of VNS in TSC patients, several studies reported decreased seizure severity and improved QOL outcomes. There was limited evidence regarding the use of VNS to treat patients with other genetic etiologies of epilepsy, such as mitochondrial disease, Rett syndrome, Doose syndrome, Landau-Kleffner syndrome, Aicardi syndrome, Angelman syndrome, ring chromosome 20 syndrome, and lissencephaly; variable responses were reported in a limited number of cases. CONCLUSIONS The authors conducted a systematic review of VNS outcomes in children with genetic etiologies of DRE. Among the most studied conditions, patients with TSC had substantial seizure reduction and improvements in QOL, whereas those with DS had less robust seizure reduction. Increased testing, diagnosis, and long-term follow-up studies are necessary to better characterize VNS response in these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabastian Hajtovic
- 1Sophie Davis Biomedical Education Program, City College of New York, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Melissa A LoPresti
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas; and
| | - Lu Zhang
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Northwestern University, Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kalman A Katlowitz
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas; and
| | - Dominic J Kizek
- 2Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas; and
| | - Sandi Lam
- 3Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Northwestern University, Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
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Liu YH, Cheng YT, Tsai MH, Chou IJ, Hung PC, Hsieh MY, Wang YS, Chen YJ, Kuo CY, Lin JJ, Wang HS, Lin KL. Genetics and clinical correlation of Dravet syndrome and its mimics - experience of a tertiary center in Taiwan. Pediatr Neonatol 2021; 62:550-558. [PMID: 34226156 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2021.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dravet syndrome is a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by the onset of prolonged febrile and afebrile seizures in infancy and SCN1A gene mutations. In some cases, non-SCN1A gene mutations can present with a phenotype very similar to that of Dravet syndrome. The aim of this study was to compare phenotypes of patients with SCN1A and non-SCN1A gene mutation-related Dravet syndrome. METHODS Thirty-six patients with Dravet syndrome-like phenotypes were followed from July 2017 to December 2019. We retrospectively analyzed their clinical profiles and genetic surveys. RESULTS Of the 36 enrolled patients, 15 (41.7%) had SCN1A mutations, one (2.8%) had an SCN8A mutation, one (2.8%) had an STX1B mutation, and five females (13.9%) had PCDH 19 mutations. The median age at first seizure onset was 7 months in those with SCN1A mutations, 1.3 years in those with PCDH19 mutations, and 10 months for the remaining patients. The majority of the patients with SCN1A mutations had status epilepticus (80% vs. 20%) and fever-sensitive seizures (76% vs. 31%) compared to those with PCDH19 mutations. The patients with SCN1A-related seizures had a higher rate of focal seizures as first seizure type than those without SCN1A mutations. Three of five (60%) patients with PCDH19 mutations had brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities. The three most commonly used antiseizure medications were sodium valproate, levetiracetam, and clobazam. Seven of the 15 patients with SCN1A mutations used stiripentol. The median time from seizure onset to genetic diagnosis was 6.6 years (range 4 months-22.3 years). CONCLUSION The patients with SCN1A mutations in this study had high rates of fever-sensitive seizures, status epilepticus, seizure onset with focal seizure type, and relatively young age at seizure onset. The patients with PCDH19 mutations had a relatively high rate of abnormal brain magnetic resonance imaging findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsuan Liu
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ting Cheng
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Han Tsai
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - I-Jun Chou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Cheng Hung
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Ying Hsieh
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shan Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ju Chen
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yen Kuo
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jainn-Jim Lin
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Pediatric Critical Care and Pediatric Neurocritical Care Center, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Shyong Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Lin Lin
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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Barco TL, Kuchenbuch M, Garcelon N, Neuraz A, Nabbout R. Improving early diagnosis of rare diseases using Natural Language Processing in unstructured medical records: an illustration from Dravet syndrome. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:309. [PMID: 34256808 PMCID: PMC8278630 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01936-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The growing use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is promoting the application of data mining in health-care. A promising use of big data in this field is to develop models to support early diagnosis and to establish natural history. Dravet Syndrome (DS) is a rare developmental and epileptic encephalopathy that commonly initiates in the first year of life with febrile seizures (FS). Age at diagnosis is often delayed after 2 years, as it is difficult to differentiate DS at onset from FS. We aimed to explore if some clinical terms (concepts) are significantly more used in the electronic narrative medical reports of individuals with DS before the age of 2 years compared to those of individuals with FS. These concepts would allow an earlier detection of patients with DS resulting in an earlier orientation toward expert centers that can provide early diagnosis and care. Methods Data were collected from the Necker Enfants Malades Hospital using a document-based data warehouse, Dr Warehouse, which employs Natural Language Processing, a computer technology consisting in processing written information. Using Unified Medical Language System Meta-thesaurus, phenotype concepts can be recognized in medical reports. We selected individuals with DS (DS Cohort) and individuals with FS (FS Cohort) with confirmed diagnosis after the age of 4 years. A phenome-wide analysis was performed evaluating the statistical associations between the phenotypes of DS and FS, based on concepts found in the reports produced before 2 years and using a series of logistic regressions. Results We found significative higher representation of concepts related to seizures’ phenotypes distinguishing DS from FS in the first phases, namely the major recurrence of complex febrile convulsions (long-lasting and/or with focal signs) and other seizure-types. Some typical early onset non-seizure concepts also emerged, in relation to neurodevelopment and gait disorders. Conclusions Narrative medical reports of individuals younger than 2 years with FS contain specific concepts linked to DS diagnosis, which can be automatically detected by software exploiting NLP. This approach could represent an innovative and sustainable methodology to decrease time of diagnosis of DS and could be transposed to other rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Lo Barco
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, APHP, Centre de Référence Épilepsies Rares, Member of ERN EPICARE, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mathieu Kuchenbuch
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, APHP, Centre de Référence Épilepsies Rares, Member of ERN EPICARE, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Imagine Institute, INSERM, UMR 1163, Université de Paris, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Garcelon
- Imagine Institute, INSERM, UMR 1163, Université de Paris, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Neuraz
- Université de Paris, Paris, France.,INSERM, UMR1138, Centre de Recherche Des Cordeliers, Paris, France.,Department of Medical Informatics, University Hospital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Rima Nabbout
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, APHP, Centre de Référence Épilepsies Rares, Member of ERN EPICARE, Université de Paris, Paris, France. .,Imagine Institute, INSERM, UMR 1163, Université de Paris, 75015, Paris, France. .,Université de Paris, Paris, France.
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Nabbout R, Auvin S, Chiron C, Thiele E, Cross H, Scheffer IE, Schneider AL, Guerrini R, Williamson N, Mistry A, Grimes R, Bennett B. Perception of impact of Dravet syndrome on children and caregivers in multiple countries: looking beyond seizures. Dev Med Child Neurol 2019; 61:1229-1236. [PMID: 30828793 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To assess the relevance and generalizability across countries of concepts of the impact of Dravet syndrome beyond seizures, as recognized by families. METHOD Caregivers of children with Dravet syndrome in four countries (Australia [n=8]; USA, UK, and Italy [all n=4]) participated in 1-hour qualitative telephone interviews, identifying key Dravet syndrome concepts. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and, where necessary, translated into English for thematic analysis. Conceptual saturation was assessed and findings compared to the previously developed French conceptual disease model. RESULTS The most common seizure types reported by caregivers were tonic-clonic, absence, or focal-impaired awareness (localized/partial). Fever and physical activity were the most commonly reported triggers. Patient-relevant impacts included impairment in cognition, motor skills, communication, social skills, and behavioural functioning. Caregivers consistently reported negative social, physical, and family impacts. Concepts identified in the interviews showed similarity with the French conceptual model. Minor differences between countries are likely to reflect variations in health care systems. INTERPRETATION Findings in Italy, Australia, UK, and USA confirm that the key impacts of Dravet syndrome on children and caregivers identified in France are generalizable across countries. Key symptom and impact concepts relevant to children and parents should be targeted as critical outcomes in new therapy evaluations. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Relevance of the impact of Dravet syndrome on children and caregivers was confirmed across countries. Patient and caregiver-relevant Dravet syndrome impacts contribute to poorer health-related quality of life. Indirect seizure impacts were reported to be as important as direct impacts. Country-specific differences in concepts probably reflect differences in health care systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima Nabbout
- Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies, Necker-Enfants Malades, Inserm U1163, Paris, France
| | | | - Catherine Chiron
- Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies, Necker-Enfants Malades, Inserm U1163, Paris, France
| | - Elizabeth Thiele
- Herscot Center for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Helen Cross
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Departments of Medicine and Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amy L Schneider
- Departments of Medicine and Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Renzo Guerrini
- The Meyer Children's Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Abstract
Dravet syndrome is a rare but severe epilepsy syndrome that begins in the first year of life with recurrent seizures triggered by fever that are typically prolonged and hemiclonic. The epilepsy is highly drug resistant. Although development is normal at onset, over time, most patients develop moderate-to-severe intellectual disability, behavior disorders, and a characteristic crouch gait. There is a significant mortality, predominantly owing to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. Complete seizure control is rarely attainable. Initial therapy includes valproic acid and clobazam, but response is typically inadequate. The results of new drugs for Dravet syndrome, including stiripentol, cannabidiol, and fenfluramine, are very promising. Stiripentol was associated with a greater than 50% reduction in convulsive seizure frequency in 71% of cases, when added to valproic acid and clobazam, and also markedly reduced status epilepticus. Pharmaceutical-grade cannabidiol resulted in a median change in monthly motor seizures from baseline of - 36.5%. Fenfluramine was associated with a greater than 50% reduction in seizures of 70%, with one quarter of cases achieving near seizure freedom over the duration of the trial. These agents are generally well tolerated, with few patients discontinuing for adverse effects. There is limited evidence to date regarding improvement in cognition with these newer agents; however, a meaningful change is challenging to assess over short trial periods and requires longer follow-up studies. While current treatments focus predominantly on seizure control, newer therapies including genetic treatments and antisense oligonucleotides can target the SCN1A channelopathy, and thus, may also significantly impact the important co-morbidities associated with this syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Wirrell
- Child and Adolescent Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| | - Rima Nabbout
- Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
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de Lange IM, Gunning B, Sonsma ACM, van Gemert L, van Kempen M, Verbeek NE, Nicolai J, Knoers NVAM, Koeleman BPC, Brilstra EH. Influence of contraindicated medication use on cognitive outcome in Dravet syndrome and age at first afebrile seizure as a clinical predictor in SCN1A
-related seizure phenotypes. Epilepsia 2018; 59:1154-1165. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.14191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Iris M. de Lange
- Department of Medical Genetics; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Boudewijn Gunning
- The Epilepsy Institutes of The Netherlands Foundation (SEIN); Zwolle The Netherlands
| | - Anja C. M. Sonsma
- Department of Medical Genetics; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | | | - Marjan van Kempen
- Department of Medical Genetics; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Nienke E. Verbeek
- Department of Medical Genetics; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Joost Nicolai
- Academical Center of Epileptology; Maastricht and Heeze The Netherlands
| | - Nine V. A. M. Knoers
- Department of Medical Genetics; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Bobby P. C. Koeleman
- Department of Medical Genetics; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Eva H. Brilstra
- Department of Medical Genetics; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
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Nabbout R, Auvin S, Chiron C, Irwin J, Mistry A, Bonner N, Williamson N, Bennett B. Development and content validation of a preliminary core set of patient- and caregiver-relevant outcomes for inclusion in a potential composite endpoint for Dravet Syndrome. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 78:232-242. [PMID: 29108913 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dravet Syndrome (DS) is a rare developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by multiple seizures, frequently prolonged and treatment refractory, with significant developmental disabilities and behavioral and psychiatric disorders. Patients with DS require intensive support and supervision from a caregiver, impacting significantly on both patients' and caregivers' lives. This study aimed to identify core concepts to measure the impact on both patients and caregivers in future DS clinical trials. METHODS Qualitative concept elicitation interviews were conducted with caregivers and healthcare professionals involved in caring for children with DS (aged 2-18years) in France to identify important concepts related to the global impact of DS. Interviews explored a range of concepts, including triggers, symptoms, impacts, and coping strategies, from which a conceptual model was developed. A Delphi consensus panel with eight international clinical experts aimed to identify important and relevant endpoints. RESULTS Seizure was the most commonly reported symptom with DS further impacting children's cognitive and behavioral functioning. Caregivers identified impact concepts not reported by healthcare professionals. Both groups described additional impacts on wider family members and home modifications. Clinical experts agreed on the inclusion of five patient- and caregiver-relevant concepts for measurement in future DS clinical trials in a composite endpoint. The five concepts for inclusion were; seizures, expressive communication of the child, receptive communication of the child, impact on daily activities, and social functioning of the caregiver. CONCLUSIONS This study showed the wider potential impact of DS to extend beyond that of seizures, demonstrating that there is a need for additional patient- and caregiver-relevant concepts to be measured in clinical trials to fully identify the value of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima Nabbout
- Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP & Inserm U1129, Paris, France.
| | - Stephane Auvin
- Hôpital Robert Debré, APHP & Inserm U1141, Paris, France.
| | - Catherine Chiron
- Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP & Inserm U1129, Paris, France
| | - John Irwin
- Zogenix International Ltd., Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, United Kingdom.
| | - Arun Mistry
- Zogenix International Ltd., Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, United Kingdom.
| | - Nicola Bonner
- Adelphi Values, Bollington, Cheshire, England, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Bryan Bennett
- Adelphi Values, Bollington, Cheshire, England, United Kingdom.
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Efficacy of adjunctive vagus nerve stimulation in patients with Dravet syndrome: A meta-analysis of 68 patients. Seizure 2017; 50:147-152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2017.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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Optimizing the Diagnosis and Management of Dravet Syndrome: Recommendations From a North American Consensus Panel. Pediatr Neurol 2017; 68:18-34.e3. [PMID: 28284397 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2017.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish standards for early, cost-effective, and accurate diagnosis; optimal therapies for seizures; and recommendations for evaluation and management of comorbidities for children and adults with Dravet syndrome, using a modified Delphi process. METHODS An expert panel was convened comprising epileptologists with nationally recognized expertise in Dravet syndrome and parents of children with Dravet syndrome, whose experience and understanding was enhanced by their active roles in Dravet syndrome associations. Panelists were asked to base their responses to questions both on their clinical expertise and results of a literature review that was forwarded to each panelist. Three rounds of online questionnaires were conducted to identify areas of consensus and strength of that consensus, as well as areas of contention. RESULTS The panel consisted of 13 physicians and five family members. Strong consensus was reached regarding typical clinical presentation of Dravet syndrome, range of electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging findings, need for genetic testing, critical information that should be conveyed to families at diagnosis, priorities for seizure control and typical degree of control, seizure triggers and recommendations for avoidance, first- and second-line therapies for seizures, requirement and indications for rescue therapy, specific recommendations for comorbidity screening, and need for family support. Consensus was not as strong regarding later therapies, including vagus nerve stimulation and callosotomy, and for specific therapies of associated comorbidities. Beyond the initial treatment with benzodiazepines and use of valproate, there was no consensus on the optimal in-hospital management of convulsive status epilepticus. CONCLUSIONS We were able to identify areas where there was strong consensus that we hope will (1) inform health care providers on optimal diagnosis and management of patients with Dravet syndrome, (2) support reimbursement from insurance companies for genetic testing and Dravet syndrome-specific therapies, and (3) improve quality of life for patients with Dravet syndrome and their families by avoidance of unnecessary testing and provision of an early accurate diagnosis allowing optimal selection of therapeutic strategies.
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Abstract
Dravet syndrome is among the most challenging electroclinical syndromes. There is a high likelihood of recurrent status epilepticus; seizures are medically refractory; and patients have multiple co-morbidities, including intellectual disability, behaviour and sleep problems, and crouch gait. Additionally, they are at significant risk of sudden unexplained death. This review will focus predominantly on the prophylactic medical management of seizures, addressing both first-line therapies (valproate and clobazam) as well as second-line (stiripentol, topiramate, ketogenic diet) or later options (levetiracetam, bromides, vagus nerve stimulation). Sodium channel agents-including carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenytoin and lamotrigine-should be avoided, as they typically exacerbate seizures. Several agents in development may show promise, specifically fenfluramine and cannabidiol, but they need further evaluation in randomized, controlled trials. In addition to prophylactic treatment, all patients need home-rescue medication and a status epilepticus protocol that can be carried out in their local hospital. Families must be counselled on non-pharmacologic strategies to reduce seizure risk, including avoidance of triggers that commonly induce seizures (including hyperthermia, flashing lights and patterns). In addition to addressing seizures, holistic care for a patient with Dravet syndrome must involve a multidisciplinary team that includes specialists in physical, occupational and speech therapy, neuropsychology, social work and physical medicine.
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Verbeek N, Kasteleijn-Nolst Trenité D, Wassenaar M, van Campen J, Sonsma A, Gunning WB, de Weerd A, Knoers N, Spetgens W, Gutter T, Leijten F, Brilstra E. Photosensitivity in Dravet syndrome is under-recognized and related to prognosis. Clin Neurophysiol 2017; 128:323-330. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2016.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is an intractable pediatric epilepsy syndrome, starting in early childhood. This disorder typically manifests with febrile status epilepticus, and progresses to a multifocal epilepsy with febrile and non-febrile seizures with encephalopathy. Most cases are due to a mutation in the SCN1A gene. This article reviews treatments for DS, with an emphasis on pharmacotherapy. While many medications are used in treating the seizures associated with DS, these patients typically have medically refractory epilepsy, and polytherapy is often required. First-line agents include valproate and clobazam, although there are supportive data for topiramate, levetiracetam, stiripentol and the ketogenic diet. Other agents such as fenfluramine are promising therapies for Dravet syndrome. Sodium channel-blocking anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine and lamotrigine are generally contraindicated in this syndrome. Nonpharmacologic therapies (such as neurostimulation or surgery) are understudied in DS. Because DS is a global encephalopathy, pharmacologic treatment of non-epileptic manifestations of the disease is often necessary. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is often encountered in patients with DS, and psychostimulants can be helpful for this indication. Other psychoactive drugs are less studied in this context. Extrapyramidal and gait disorders are often encountered in DS as well. While DS is a severe epileptic encephalopathy with a high (up to 15 %) mortality rate in childhood, careful pharmacologic management can improve these patients' clinical picture and quality of life.
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Nakken KO, Heuser K, Alfstad K, Taubøll E. [How do antiepileptic drugs work?]. TIDSSKRIFT FOR DEN NORSKE LEGEFORENING 2014; 134:42-6. [PMID: 24429755 DOI: 10.4045/tidsskr.13.0761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are currently around 25 antiepileptic drugs in use in Norway, of which 15 have entered the market in the last 20 years. All have somewhat different effect- and adverse effect profiles and mechanisms of action. Here we present a brief overview of current knowledge regarding the basic mechanisms of action of these drugs. METHOD The review is based on a discretionary selection of relevant articles found through a literature search in PubMed and our own clinical and research experience. RESULTS There are, roughly speaking, four main mechanisms; 1) modulation of ion channels (sodium and calcium channel blockers, potassium channel openers), 2) potentiation of GABAergic inhibition, 3) reduction of glutamatergic excitation and 4) modulation of presynaptic neurotransmitter release. Some of the drugs have several mechanisms of action, and for some of them it is unclear which mechanism is clinically most important. To some extent, the drugs' mechanisms of action predict their effect against different types of epilepsy and seizures. For instance, sodium channel blockers work best against focal seizures, while calcium channel blockers work best against absences, a type of generalised seizure. INTERPRETATION Optimal treatment of patients with epilepsy requires not only thorough knowledge of seizure- and epilepsy classification, but also insight into the mechanisms of action of antiepileptic drugs.
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Fridley J, Reddy G, Curry D, Agadi S. Surgical treatment of pediatric epileptic encephalopathies. EPILEPSY RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2013; 2013:720841. [PMID: 24288601 PMCID: PMC3833057 DOI: 10.1155/2013/720841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Revised: 08/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric epileptiform encephalopathies are a group of neurologically devastating disorders related to uncontrolled ictal and interictal epileptic activity, with a poor prognosis. Despite the number of pharmacological options for treatment of epilepsy, many of these patients are drug resistant. For these patients with uncontrolled epilepsy, motor and/or neuropsychological deterioration is common. To prevent these secondary consequences, surgery is often considered as either a curative or a palliative option. Magnetic resonance imaging to look for epileptic lesions that may be surgically treated is an essential part of the workup for these patients. Many surgical procedures for the treatment of epileptiform encephalopathies have been reported in the literature. In this paper the evidence for these procedures for the treatment of pediatric epileptiform encephalopathies is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Fridley
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - G. Reddy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - D. Curry
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1709 Dryden, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, CCC Suite 1230, 6621 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - S. Agadi
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, 6501 Fannin Street, NB302, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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