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Chokote E, Ngarka L, Takoeta EO, Kengni HNT, Nfor LN, Mengnjo MK, Mendo EL, Djeutcheu F, Yepnjio FN, Tatah GY, Mbassi HDA, Njamnshi AK. A rare case of drug sensitive adult-onset temporal lobe epilepsy due to a focal cortical dysplasia revealed by ictal coughing: First report in sub-Saharan Africa. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e7093. [PMID: 36992669 PMCID: PMC10041363 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.7093] [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: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This case suggests that clinicians should consider seizures as a differential diagnosis of paroxystic cough with loss of consciousness. Focal cortical dysplasia should equally be screened for with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans even in adults with epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric‐Samuel Chokote
- Department of NeurologyJordan Medical ServicesYaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)YaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)GenevaSwitzerland
| | - Leonard Ngarka
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)YaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)GenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Neurology Yaoundé Central HospitalYaoundéCameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical SciencesThe University of Yaoundé IYaoundéCameroon
| | | | - Hermann Nestor Tsague Kengni
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical SciencesThe University of Yaoundé IYaoundéCameroon
- Department of CardiologyJordan Medical ServicesYaoundéCameroon
| | - Leonard N. Nfor
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)YaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)GenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Neurology Yaoundé Central HospitalYaoundéCameroon
| | - Michel K. Mengnjo
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)YaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)GenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Neurology Yaoundé Central HospitalYaoundéCameroon
| | - Edwige Laure Mendo
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)YaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)GenevaSwitzerland
- Department of NeurologyEbolowa Regional HospitalEbolowaCameroon
| | | | | | - Godwin Y. Tatah
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)YaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)GenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Neurology Yaoundé Central HospitalYaoundéCameroon
- Department of NeurologyCH Saint‐NazaireSaint‐NazaireFrance
| | - Hubert Désiré Awa Mbassi
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical SciencesThe University of Yaoundé IYaoundéCameroon
- Chantal Biya FoundationMCCYaoundéCameroon
| | - Alfred K. Njamnshi
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)YaoundéCameroon
- Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN)GenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Neurology Yaoundé Central HospitalYaoundéCameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical SciencesThe University of Yaoundé IYaoundéCameroon
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Ojha V. Association between Clinical Features and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Patients with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy. JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF PHYSICIANS OF INDIA 2022. [DOI: 10.5005/japi-11001-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Hainc N, McAndrews MP, Valiante T, Andrade DM, Wennberg R, Krings T. Imaging in medically refractory epilepsy at 3 Tesla: a 13-year tertiary adult epilepsy center experience. Insights Imaging 2022; 13:99. [PMID: 35661273 PMCID: PMC9167324 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-022-01236-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives MRI negative epilepsy has evolved through increased usage of 3 T and insights from surgically correlated studies. The goal of this study is to describe dedicated 3 T epilepsy MRI findings in medically refractory epilepsy (MRE) patients at a tertiary epilepsy center to familiarize radiologists with an updated spectrum and frequency of potential imaging findings in the adult MRE population. Methods Included were all patients with MRE admitted to the epilepsy monitoring unit who were discussed at weekly interdisciplinary imaging conferences at Toronto Western Hospital with MRI studies (3 T with dedicated epilepsy protocol) performed between January 2008 and January 2021. Lesion characterization was performed by two readers based on most likely imaging diagnosis in consensus. Lobes involved per case were recorded. Results A total of 738 patients (386 female; mean age 35 years, range 15–77) were included. A total of 262 patients (35.5%) were MRI negative. The most common imaging finding was mesial temporal sclerosis, seen in 132 patients (17.9%), followed by encephalomalacia and gliosis, either posttraumatic, postoperative, postischemic, or postinfectious in nature, in 79 patients (10.7%). The most common lobar involvement (either partially or uniquely) was temporal (341 cases, 58.6%). MRE patients not candidates for surgical resection were included in the study, as were newly described pathologies from surgically correlated studies revealing findings seen retrospectively on reported MRI negative exams (isolated enlargement of the amygdala, temporal pole white matter abnormality, temporal encephalocele). Conclusion This study provides an updated description of the spectrum of 3 T MRI findings in adult MRE patients from a tertiary epilepsy center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolin Hainc
- Division of Neuroradiology, Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Department of Neuroradiology, Clinical Neuroscience Center, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Mary Pat McAndrews
- Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Taufik Valiante
- Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle M Andrade
- Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Richard Wennberg
- Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Timo Krings
- Division of Neuroradiology, Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Passos GAR, Silvado CES, Borba LAB. Drug resistant epilepsy of the insular lobe: A review and update article. Surg Neurol Int 2022; 13:197. [PMID: 35673654 PMCID: PMC9168288 DOI: 10.25259/sni_58_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epilepsy is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world generating great expenses and psychosocial problems burdening the public health in different ways. A considerable number of patients are refractory to the drug treatment requiring a more detailed and specialized investigation to establish the most appropriate therapeutic option. Insular epilepsy is a rare form of focal epilepsy commonly drug resistant and has much of its investigation and treatment involved with the surgical management at some point. The insula or the insular lobe is a portion of the cerebral cortex located in the depth of the lateral sulcus of the brain; its triangular in shape and connects with the other adjacent lobes. The insular lobe is a very interesting and complex portion of the brain related with different functions. Insula in Latin means Island and was initially described in the 18th century but its relation with epilepsy was first reported in the 1940–1950s. Insular lobe epilepsy is generally difficult to identify and confirm due to its depth and interconnections. Initial non-invasive studies generally demonstrate frustrating or incoherent information about the origin of the ictal event. Technological evolution made this pathology to be progressively better recognized and understood enabling professionals to perform the correct diagnosis and choose the ideal treatment for the affected population. Methods: A literature review was performed using MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The terms epilepsy/epileptic seizure of the insula and surgical treatment was used in various combinations. We included studies that were published in English, French, or Portuguese; performed in humans with insular epilepsy who underwent some surgical treatment (microsurgery, laser ablation, or radiofrequency thermocoagulation). Results: Initial search results in 1267 articles. After removing the duplicates 710 remaining articles were analyzed for titles and abstracts applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. 70 studies met all inclusion criteria and were selected. Conclusion: At present, the main interests and efforts are in the attempt to achieve and standardize the adequate management of the patient with refractory epilepsy of the insular lobe and for that purpose several forms of investigation and treatment were developed. In this paper, we will discuss the characteristics and information regarding the pathology and gather data to identify and choose the best therapeutic option for each case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo A. R. Passos
- UFPR Post Graduate Program in Internal Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Mackenzie University Hospital,
| | - Carlos E. S. Silvado
- UFPR Post Graduate Program in Internal Medicine, Department of Neurology, Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal do Paraná,
| | - Luis Alencar B. Borba
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal do Paraná/Mackenzie University Hospital, Curitiba, Brazil
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Convolutional neural networks to identify malformations of cortical development: A feasibility study. Seizure 2021; 91:81-90. [PMID: 34130195 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.05.023] [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: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop and test a deep learning model to automatically detect malformations of cortical development (MCD). METHODS We trained a deep learning model to distinguish between diffuse cortical malformation (CM), periventricular nodular heterotopia (PVNH), and normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We trained 4 different convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures. We used batch normalization, global average pooling, dropout layers, transfer learning, and data augmentation to minimize overfitting. RESULTS There were 45 subjects (866 images) with a normal MRI, 52 subjects (790 images) with CM, and 32 subjects (750 images) with PVNH. There was no subject overlap between the training, validation, and test sets. The InceptionResNetV2 architecture performed best in the validation set in all models and was evaluated in the test set with the following results: 1) the model distinguishing between CM and normal MRI yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.89 and accuracy of 0.81; 2) the model distinguishing between PVNH and normal MRI yielded an AUC of 0.90 and accuracy of 0.84; 3) the model distinguishing between the three classes (CM, PVNH, and normal MRI) yielded an AUC of 0.88 and accuracy of 0.74. Visualization with gradient-weighted class activation maps and saliency maps showed that the deep learning models classified images based on relevant areas within each image. SIGNIFICANCE This study showed that CNNs can detect MCD at a clinically useful performance level with a fully automated workflow without image feature selection.
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Focal cortical dysplasia with prolonged ictal asystole, a case report. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2021; 6:10-15. [PMID: 33426383 PMCID: PMC7779374 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Focal cortical dysplasia causes refractory epilepsy with falls and syncope. FCD is known for ictal bradycardia and ictal asystole. Diagnosis and localization of the epileptogenic zone and ictal asystole can be made with simultaneous VEEG and EKG.
Introduction Cortical dysplasia carries significant morbidities such as seizures and delayed milestones. Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) causes refractory epilepsy with various seizure types depending on the location and extent of the dysplasia. FCD in the temporal region and the insular cortex may cause ictal bradycardia (IB) and ictal asystole (IA). Video EEG (VEEG) with simultaneous EKG recording can better diagnose these cardiac abnormalities in FCD. We describe a case of refractory epilepsy. The patient’s clinical seizures were usually followed by syncope. VEEG revealed frequent seizures some of which were associated with prolonged ictal asystole. Results A 15 years old female was admitted to an epilepsy monitoring unit for VEEG. There were widespread fast abnormal discharges known as FREDs with a frequency of 16–20 Hz. She developed numerous habitual seizures and syncope. Some of these were associated with an EKG change in the form of asystole. The cardiac workup was normal. MRI revealed abnormalities in bilateral insular, temporal, and right parietal lobes. Conclusion This case highlights the significance of:Fast rhythmic epileptiform discharges (FREDs) in cortical dysplasia. Role of video-EEG monitoring. Prolonged asystole and the potential role of cardiac intervention in the form of cardiac pacing and cardioneuroablation in decreasing syncope.
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Ozturk K, Soylu E, Bilgin C, Hakyemez B, Parlak M. Neuroimaging of first seizure in the adult emergency patients. Acta Neurol Belg 2020; 120:873-878. [PMID: 29442232 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-018-0894-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim is to establish the role of head computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in adults presenting to the emergency department (ED) with first-time seizure (FS) and to analyze the potential predictor variables for the adverse imaging outcome. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all adults who underwent cranial CT or MRI between January 1, 2011, and December 1, 2016, to an academic ED for FS. Patients were excluded if were under 18 years of age, had known recent intracranial pathology, known brain tumor or having a history of trauma. Important predictive variables to indicate pathology in either CT or MR scan in patients with FS were evaluated with logistic regression analysis. A total of 546 FS (293 men and 253 women; range, 18-81 years; mean, 47 years) were identified in patients receiving either cranial CT or MR scan. Of them, abnormal findings were observed in 22/451 (4.8%) patients on CT and 18/95 (18.9%) patients on MRI. Predictor variables of age greater than 50 years, focal neurologic deficit, hypoglycemia, and history of malignancy were identified on CT, whereas a history of malignancy, age greater than 50 years and focal neurological deficit were determined on MRI. Limiting neuroimaging to this population would potentially reduce head CT scans by 67% and would potentially reduce head MRI scans by 47%. Clinical suspicion should be heightened and the neuroimaging should be considered for advanced age, history of malignancy, hypoglycemia or focal neurological deficits in patients with FS.
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Nolan RL, Brandmeir N, Tucker ES, Magruder JL, Lee MR, Chen G, Lewis JW. Functional and resting-state characterizations of a periventricular heterotopic nodule associated with epileptogenic activity. Neurosurg Focus 2020; 48:E10. [PMID: 32006947 DOI: 10.3171/2019.11.focus19765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The object of this study was to extensively characterize a region of periventricular nodular heterotopia (PVNH) in an epilepsy patient to reveal its possible neurocognitive functional role(s). The authors used 3-T MRI approaches to exhaustively characterize a single, right hemisphere heterotopion in a high-functioning adult male with medically responsive epilepsy, which had manifested during late adolescence. The heterotopion proved to be spectroscopically consistent with a cortical-like composition and was interconnected with nearby ipsilateral cortical fundi, as revealed by fiber tractography (diffusion-weighted imaging) and resting-state functional connectivity MRI (rsfMRI). Moreover, the region of PVNH demonstrated two novel characterizations for a heterotopion. First, functional MRI (fMRI), as distinct from rsfMRI, showed that the heterotopion was significantly modulated while the patient watched animated video scenes of biological motion (i.e., cartoons). Second, rsfMRI, which demonstrated correlated brain activity during a task-negative state, uniquely showed directionality within an interconnected network, receiving positive path effects from patent cortical and cerebellar foci while outputting only negative path effects to specific brain foci.These findings are addressed in the context of the impact on noninvasive presurgical brain mapping strategies for adult and pediatric patient workups, as well as the impact of this study on an understanding of the functional cortical architecture underlying cognition from a neurodiversity and evolutionary perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicholas Brandmeir
- 2Neurosurgery, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute and Center for Advanced Imaging at West Virginia University
| | | | - John L Magruder
- 3Department of Pediatrics, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia; and
| | - Mark R Lee
- 2Neurosurgery, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute and Center for Advanced Imaging at West Virginia University
| | - Gang Chen
- 4Scientific and Statistical Computing Core, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Fitsiori A, Hiremath SB, Boto J, Garibotto V, Vargas MI. Morphological and Advanced Imaging of Epilepsy: Beyond the Basics. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 6:E43. [PMID: 30862078 PMCID: PMC6462967 DOI: 10.3390/children6030043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of epilepsy is variable and sometimes multifactorial. Clinical course and response to treatment largely depend on the precise etiology of the seizures. Along with the electroencephalogram (EEG), neuroimaging techniques, in particular, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are the most important tools for determining the possible etiology of epilepsy. Over the last few years, there have been many developments in data acquisition and analysis for both morphological and functional neuroimaging of people suffering from this condition. These innovations have increased the detection of underlying structural pathologies, which have till recently been classified as "cryptogenic" epilepsy. Cryptogenic epilepsy is often refractory to anti-epileptic drug treatment. In drug-resistant patients with structural or consistent functional lesions related to the epilepsy syndrome, surgery is the only treatment that can offer a seizure-free outcome. The pre-operative detection of the underlying structural condition increases the odds of successful surgical treatment of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. This article provides a comprehensive overview of neuroimaging techniques in epilepsy, highlighting recent advances and innovations and summarizes frequent etiologies of epilepsy in order to improve the diagnosis and management of patients suffering from seizures, especially young patients and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Fitsiori
- Unit of Neurodiagnostic, Division of Neuroradiology, Geneva University Hospital, rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | - José Boto
- Unit of Neurodiagnostic, Division of Neuroradiology, Geneva University Hospital, rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Valentina Garibotto
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Geneva University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Maria Isabel Vargas
- Unit of Neurodiagnostic, Division of Neuroradiology, Geneva University Hospital, rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
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Thijs RD, Surges R, O'Brien TJ, Sander JW. Epilepsy in adults. Lancet 2019; 393:689-701. [PMID: 30686584 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)32596-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 973] [Impact Index Per Article: 194.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common serious brain conditions, affecting over 70 million people worldwide. Its incidence has a bimodal distribution with the highest risk in infants and older age groups. Progress in genomic technology is exposing the complex genetic architecture of the common types of epilepsy, and is driving a paradigm shift. Epilepsy is a symptom complex with multiple risk factors and a strong genetic predisposition rather than a condition with a single expression and cause. These advances have resulted in the new classification of epileptic seizures and epilepsies. A detailed clinical history and a reliable eyewitness account of a seizure are the cornerstones of the diagnosis. Ancillary investigations can help to determine cause and prognosis. Advances in brain imaging are helping to identify the structural and functional causes and consequences of the epilepsies. Comorbidities are increasingly recognised as important aetiological and prognostic markers. Antiseizure medication might suppress seizures in up to two-thirds of all individuals but do not alter long-term prognosis. Epilepsy surgery is the most effective way to achieve long-term seizure freedom in selected individuals with drug-resistant focal epilepsy, but it is probably not used enough. With improved understanding of the gradual development of epilepsy, epigenetic determinants, and pharmacogenomics comes the hope for better, disease-modifying, or even curative, pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment strategies. Other developments are clinical implementation of seizure detection devices and new neuromodulation techniques, including responsive neural stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland D Thijs
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Rainer Surges
- Section of Epileptology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Germany
| | - Terence J O'Brien
- Melbourne Brain Centre, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Departments of Neuroscience and Neurology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Josemir W Sander
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, Netherlands; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, UK.
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Khan UG, Schmidt MH. A Survey of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Protocols for the Investigation of Epilepsy in Canadian Academic Referral Centres. Can Assoc Radiol J 2018; 69:277-281. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carj.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Usman G. Khan
- MD Program, Undergraduate Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Matthias H. Schmidt
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Mohan M, Keller S, Nicolson A, Biswas S, Smith D, Osman Farah J, Eldridge P, Wieshmann U. The long-term outcomes of epilepsy surgery. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196274. [PMID: 29768433 PMCID: PMC5955551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Despite modern anti-epileptic drug treatment, approximately 30% of epilepsies remain medically refractory and for these patients, epilepsy surgery may be a treatment option. There have been numerous studies demonstrating good outcome of epilepsy surgery in the short to median term however, there are a limited number of studies looking at the long-term outcomes. The aim of this study was to ascertain the long-term outcome of resective epilepsy surgery in a large neurosurgery hospital in the U.K. Methods This a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. We used the 2001 International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification system to classify seizure freedom and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to estimate the probability of seizure freedom. Results We included 284 patients who underwent epilepsy surgery (178 anterior temporal lobe resections, 37 selective amygdalohippocampectomies, 33 temporal lesionectomies, 36 extratemporal lesionectomies), and had a prospective median follow-up of 5 years (range 1–27). Kaplan-Meier estimates showed that 47% (95% CI 40–58) remained seizure free (apart from simple partial seizures) at 5 years and 38% (95% CI 31–45) at 10 years after surgery. 74% (95% CI 69–80) had a greater than 50% seizure reduction at 5 years and 70% (95% CI 64–77) at 10 years. Patients who had an amygdalohippocampectomy were more likely to have seizure recurrence than patients who had an anterior temporal lobe resection (p = 0.006) and temporal lesionectomy (p = 0.029). There was no significant difference between extra temporal and temporal lesionectomies. Hippocampal sclerosis was associated with a good outcome but declined in relative frequency over the years. Conclusion The vast majority of patients who were not seizure free experienced at least a substantial and long-lasting reduction in seizure frequency. A positive long-term outcome after epilepsy surgery is possible for many patients and especially those with hippocampal sclerosis or those who had anterior temporal lobe resections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Midhun Mohan
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Keller
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Nicolson
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Shubhabrata Biswas
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - David Smith
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Jibril Osman Farah
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Eldridge
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Udo Wieshmann
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Crocker CE, Pohlmann-Eden B, Schmidt MH. Role of neuroimaging in first seizure diagnosis. Seizure 2017; 49:74-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2016.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Understanding Lennox–Gastaut syndrome: insights from focal epilepsy patients with Lennox–Gastaut features. J Neurol 2017; 264:1388-1396. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-017-8535-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Tract-specific atrophy in focal epilepsy: Disease, genetics, or seizures? Ann Neurol 2017; 81:240-250. [DOI: 10.1002/ana.24848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Does F-18 FDG-PET substantially alter the surgical decision-making in drug-resistant partial epilepsy? Epilepsy Behav 2015; 51:133-9. [PMID: 26276413 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Revised: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a dearth of information on the critical utility of positron emission tomography (PET) in choosing candidates for epilepsy surgery especially in resource-poor countries where it is not freely available. This study aimed to critically analyze the utility of FDG-PET in the presurgical evaluation and surgical selection of patients with DRE based on the results obtained through its use in our comprehensive epilepsy program. METHODS From 2008 to 2012, 117 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy underwent F-18 fluoro-deoxy-glucose (FDG) PET in our center. We utilized their data to audit the utility of PET in choosing/deferring patients for surgery. RESULTS Of the 117 patients (age: 5-42years) who underwent F-18 FDG-PET, 64 had normal MRI, and 53 had lesions. Electroclinical data favored temporal ictal onset in 48 (41%), extratemporal in 60 (51.3%), and uncertain lobar localization in 9 (7.7%). The topography of PET hypometabolism was localizing in 53 (45.3%), lateralizing in 12 (10.3%), and 52 (44.4%) had either normal or discordant results. In the nonlesional group, focal hypometabolism was concordant to the area of ictal onset in 27 (41.5%) versus 38 (58.5%) in the lesional group (p=0.002). Greater concordance was noted in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) (78.0%) as compared to extratemporal epilepsy (ETPE) (28.6%) (p<0.001). Positron emission tomography was more concordant in patients with mesial temporal sclerosis than in those with other lesions (82.8% versus 50%) (p=0.033). Positron emission tomography helped in surgical decision-making in 68.8% of TLE and 23.3% of ETPE cases. Overall, 37 patients (31.6%) were directly selected for resective surgery based on PET results. CONCLUSIONS Positron emission tomography, when utilized judiciously, remained an ancillary tool in the surgical selection of one-third of patients with drug-resistant partial epilepsy, although its utility as an independent tool is not very promising.
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Valentín A, Morris R, Honavar M, Bodi I, Teijeira-Azcona A, Lázaro M, Selway R, Alarcón G, Richardson MP. Single Pulse Electrical Stimulation Identifies Epileptogenicity in a Case With Subcortical Nodular Heterotopia and MRI Negative Epilepsy. Brain Stimul 2015; 8:672-4. [PMID: 25682362 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2015.01.403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Valentín
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, London, UK; Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Departamento de Fisiología, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Robert Morris
- Department of Neurosurgery, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mrinalini Honavar
- Department of Clinical Neuropathology, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Department of Anatomic Pathology, USL de Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Istvan Bodi
- Department of Clinical Neuropathology, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Department of Anatomic Pathology, USL de Matosinhos, Portugal
| | | | - Marian Lázaro
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Guy's and St Thomas Hospital, London, UK
| | - Richard Selway
- Department of Neurosurgery, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Gonzalo Alarcón
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, London, UK; Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, King's College Hospital, London, UK; Departamento de Fisiología, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mark P Richardson
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, London, UK; Department of Neurology, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Archer JS, Warren AEL, Jackson GD, Abbott DF. Conceptualizing lennox-gastaut syndrome as a secondary network epilepsy. Front Neurol 2014; 5:225. [PMID: 25400619 PMCID: PMC4214194 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2014.00225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lennox–Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) is a category of severe, disabling epilepsy, characterized by frequent, treatment-resistant seizures, and cognitive impairment. Electroencephalography (EEG) shows characteristic generalized epileptic activity that is similar in those with lesional, genetic, or unknown causes, suggesting a common underlying mechanism. The condition typically begins in young children, leaving many severely disabled with recurring seizures throughout their adult life. Scalp EEG of the tonic seizures of LGS is characterized by a diffuse high-voltage slow transient evolving into generalized low-voltage fast activity, likely reflecting sustained fast neuronal firing over a wide cortical area. The typical interictal discharges (runs of slow spike-and-wave and bursts of generalized paroxysmal fast activity) also have a “generalized” electrical field, suggesting widespread cortical involvement. Recent brain mapping studies have begun to reveal which cortical and subcortical regions are active during these “generalized” discharges. In this critical review, we examine findings from neuroimaging studies of LGS and place these in the context of the electrical and clinical features of the syndrome. We suggest that LGS can be conceptualized as “secondary network epilepsy,” where the epileptic activity is expressed through large-scale brain networks, particularly the attention and default-mode networks. Cortical lesions, when present, appear to chronically interact with these networks to produce network instability rather than triggering each individual epileptic discharge. LGS can be considered as “secondary” network epilepsy because the epileptic manifestations of the disorder reflect the networks being driven, rather than the specific initiating process. In this review, we begin with a summation of the clinical manifestations of LGS and what this has revealed about the underlying etiology of the condition. We then undertake a systematic review of the functional neuroimaging literature in LGS, which leads us to conclude that LGS can best be conceptualized as “secondary network epilepsy.”
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Archer
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia ; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia ; Department Neurology, Austin Health , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia
| | - Aaron E L Warren
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia
| | - Graeme D Jackson
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia ; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia ; Department Neurology, Austin Health , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia
| | - David F Abbott
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia ; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health , Heidelberg, VIC , Australia
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Amhaoul H, Staelens S, Dedeurwaerdere S. Imaging brain inflammation in epilepsy. Neuroscience 2014; 279:238-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Degnan AJ, Samtani R, Paudel K, Levy LM. Neuroimaging of epilepsy: a review of MRI findings in uncommon etiologies and atypical presentations of seizures. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.2217/fnl.14.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Imaging patients with seizures presents a challenge to both clinician and radiologist, especially when symptoms or EEG features are atypical, not conforming to established epilepsy syndromes or EEG patterns. Appropriate, directed use of MRI enhances the detection of underlying epileptogenic foci and can evaluate both common and unusual etiologies. This review examines imaging evaluation of epilepsies due to uncommon presentations of common conditions, unusual conditions and atypical seizure presentations. Understanding these uncommon presentations of seizures ensures optimal clinical management and can guide appropriate intervention. Advances in newer imaging methods including diffusion tensor imaging, functional connectivity MRI, magnetic source imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging can further increase sensitivity to detect subtle structural abnormalities causing epilepsy and can also be used to plan more successful epilepsy surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Degnan
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Rajeev Samtani
- Department of Radiology, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Kalyan Paudel
- Department of Radiology, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Lucien M Levy
- Department of Radiology, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20037, USA
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Archer JS, Warren AEL, Stagnitti MR, Masterton RAJ, Abbott DF, Jackson GD. Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and phenotype: secondary network epilepsies. Epilepsia 2014; 55:1245-54. [PMID: 24902608 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is a severe epilepsy phenotype with characteristic electroclinical features despite diverse etiologies. We previously found common cerebral networks involved during slow spike-and-wave (SSW) and generalized paroxysmal fast activity (PFA), characteristic interictal discharges. Some patients have a Lennox-Gastaut-like phenotype and cortical lesions. We wished to explore the interaction between cerebral networks and lesions in this group. METHODS 3 Tesla electroencephalography-functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG-fMRI) on six subjects with Lennox-Gastaut phenotype and a structural lesion. Timings of SSW and PFA events were used in an event-related fMRI analysis, and to estimate the time course of the hemodynamic response from key regions. RESULTS (1) PFA-robust fMRI signal increases were observed in frontal and parietal association cortical areas, thalamus, and pons, with simultaneous increases in both "attention" and resting-state (default mode) networks, a highly unusual pattern. (2) SSW showed mixed increased and decreased fMRI activity, with preevent increases in association cortex and thalamus, and then prominent postevent reduction. There was decreased fMRI activity in primary cortical areas. (3) Lesion-variable fMRI increases were observed during PFA and SSW discharges. Three subjects who proceeded to lesionectomy are >1 year seizure-free. SIGNIFICANCE We conceptualize Lennox-Gastaut phenotype as a being a network epilepsy, where key cerebral networks become autonomously unstable. Epileptiform activity in Lennox-Gastaut phenotype, and by implication in LGS, appears to be amplified and expressed through association cortical areas, possibly because the attention and default-mode networks are widely interconnected, fundamental brain networks. Seizure freedom in the subjects who proceeded to lesionectomy suggests that cortical lesions are able to establish and maintain this abnormal unstable network behavior. LGS may be considered a secondary network epilepsy because the unifying epileptic manifestations of the disorder, including PFA and SSW, reflect network dysfunction, rather than the specific initiating process.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Archer
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Intusoma U, Abbott DF, Masterton RAJ, Stagnitti MR, Newton MR, Jackson GD, Freeman JL, Harvey AS, Archer JS. Tonic seizures of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome: Periictal single-photon emission computed tomography suggests a corticopontine network. Epilepsia 2013; 54:2151-7. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Utcharee Intusoma
- Pediatric Neurology Unit; Department of Paediatrics; Faculty of Medicine; Prince of Songkla University; Hat Yai Songkhla Thailand
- Department of Medicine; Austin Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - David F. Abbott
- Department of Medicine; Austin Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Richard A. J. Masterton
- Department of Medicine; Austin Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Monique R. Stagnitti
- Department of Medicine; Austin Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Mark R. Newton
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Graeme D. Jackson
- Department of Medicine; Austin Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Radiology; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Jeremy L. Freeman
- Department of Neurology; The Royal Children's Hospital; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - A. Simon Harvey
- Department of Neurology; The Royal Children's Hospital; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Paediatrics; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - John S. Archer
- Department of Medicine; Austin Health; The University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health; Melbourne Victoria Australia
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Otte WM, van Meer MPA, van der Marel K, Zwartbol R, Viergever MA, Braun KPJ, Dijkhuizen RM. Experimental focal neocortical epilepsy is associated with reduced white matter volume growth: results from multiparametric MRI analysis. Brain Struct Funct 2013; 220:27-36. [DOI: 10.1007/s00429-013-0633-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Toledo M, Sarria-Estrada S, Quintana M, Auger C, Salas-Puig X, Santamarina E, Vert C, Rovira A. 3 TESLA MR imaging in adults with focal onset epilepsy. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2013; 115:2111-6. [PMID: 23969199 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2013.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2013] [Revised: 07/01/2013] [Accepted: 07/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The finding of cerebral epileptogenic lesions in magnetic resonance (MR) has demonstrated to be a relevant prognostic factor for potential surgical candidates. In a series of consecutive adults with focal onset epilepsy, we investigated the yield of 3T MR imaging for detecting epileptogenic cerebral lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS We prospectively recruited 161 adult patients with a diagnosis of focal epilepsy, all of whom underwent standardized MR imaging study performed with a 3T magnet. RESULTS Lesion-related epilepsy was observed in 48% of patients, and 12% of cryptogenic patients showed subtle or non-specific lesions related to the epileptogenic source. The most common findings were focal cortical dysplasia and vascular lesions, followed by mesial temporal sclerosis, tumors, and scars from previous cerebral injuries. Patients older than 72 years were more likely to have vascular epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic assessment using a standardized 3T MR imaging protocol for focal-onset epilepsy detects lesions in nearly half the patients. Our results indicate that elders with focal epilepsy should be searched for vascular lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Toledo
- Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Passeig Vall d'Hebron 119-129, 08035 Barcelona, Spain.
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Malformations of cortical development and epilepsy in adult patients. Seizure 2012; 21:377-84. [PMID: 22513002 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2012.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2011] [Revised: 03/15/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe clinical features of epilepsy secondary to Malformation of Cortical Development (MCD) in a series of adult patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS We searched our database for all cases with confirmed epilepsy and MCD and included in the study only those with complete data. Mean age, sex, age at seizure onset (ASO), seizure types, abnormal neurological exam (ANE), mental retardation, family history, gestational or perinatal insults (G-PI), interictal EEG and response to treatment were analyzed. Cases were classified into the 3 main groups (G) according to the Barkovich classification (BC) and then compared: (G1) "malformations due to abnormal cell proliferation", (G2) "malformations due to abnormal migration" and (G3) "malformations due to abnormal cortical organization". RESULTS We identified 152 (5.06%) patients with MCD from a total of 3000 with epilepsy. In total, 138 patients with complete medical data were included in this study. The mean age of patients was 36.2 years, 52.2% were female, the mean ASO was 12.3 years, 5.1% of cases had a positive family history and 21% had G-PI. An ANE was observed in 21% and mental retardation in 31.9%. Most of the patients (84.8%) had refractory epilepsy. The distribution of cases according to the BC was: 51.4% in G1, 28.9% in G2 and 19.6% in G3. Comparing the 3 groups, we found that an ANE was statistically more frequent in G3 and was present in 70.4% of cases. CONCLUSION Our series of adult patients with epilepsy and MCD suggests that MCD are identified as commonly in a developing country as in previous "first world" series. Neurological deficits were more common in the subgroup of patients with polymicrogyria and schizencephaly (BC Group 3).
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Jung DE, Lee JS. Multimodal neuroimaging in presurgical evaluation of childhood epilepsy. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2010; 53:779-85. [PMID: 21189974 PMCID: PMC3004492 DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2010.53.8.779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2010] [Revised: 07/12/2010] [Accepted: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In pre-surgical evaluation of pediatric epilepsy, the combined use of multiple imaging modalities for precise localization of the epileptogenic focus is a worthwhile endeavor. Advanced neuroimaging by high field Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion tensor images, and MR spectroscopy have the potential to identify subtle lesions. 18F-FDG positron emission tomography and single photon emission tomography provide visualization of metabolic alterations of the brain in the ictal and interictal states. These techniques may have localizing value for patients which exhibit normal MRI scans. Functional MRI is helpful for non-invasively identifying areas of eloquent cortex. These advances are improving our ability to noninvasively detect epileptogenic foci which have gone undetected in the past and whose accurate localization is crucial for a favorable outcome following surgical resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Eun Jung
- Department of Pediatrics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
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Mathew T, Srikanth SG, Satishchandra P. Malformations of cortical development (MCDs) and epilepsy: Experience from a tertiary care center in south India. Seizure 2010; 19:147-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2010.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2009] [Revised: 12/18/2009] [Accepted: 01/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Zijlmans M, de Kort GA, Witkamp TD, Huiskamp GM, Seppenwoolde JH, van Huffelen AC, Leijten FS. 3T versus 1.5T phased-array MRI in the presurgical work-up of patients with partial epilepsy of uncertain focus. J Magn Reson Imaging 2009; 30:256-62. [DOI: 10.1002/jmri.21811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Clinical MRI in children and adults with focal epilepsy: a critical review. Epilepsy Behav 2009; 15:40-9. [PMID: 19236945 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2009.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2009] [Accepted: 02/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Hippocampal sclerosis in adults and focal cortical dysplasia in children with epilepsy are frequent lesions, but they are overlooked on standard MRI. Errors in the interpretation of MRI in epilepsy can be attributed mainly to poor technique and perceptual misses, but incomplete knowledge and poor judgment are also possible sources. This review covers what to expect in structural MRI of an adult patient with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and how to find hippocampal sclerosis (HS). It also covers the clinical MRI-based detection of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) in extratemporal lobe epilepsy, mainly in children. In a stepwise approach, first, a typical epilepsy MRI protocol at 1.5 T includes axial and coronal fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging, T2- and T2 *-weighted images, and a T1-weighted, three-dimensional volume acquisition. Advanced MR techniques (quantitation, new contrasts like diffusion, MR spectroscopy, high-contrast high-resolution imaging on high-field MR scanners > or = 3 T) are used to increase the method's sensitivity to detect a lesion in an individual patient. Exploiting increased sensitivity, we can avoid false-positive results in the light of a clinical hypothesis, possibly isolating a localized brain area by seizure semiology and EEG prior to MR reading.
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Imaging malformations of cortical development. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2008. [PMID: 18809040 DOI: 10.1016/s0072-9752(07)87026-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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Goffin K, Dedeurwaerdere S, Van Laere K, Van Paesschen W. Neuronuclear Assessment of Patients With Epilepsy. Semin Nucl Med 2008; 38:227-39. [DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2008.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Vitali P, Minati L, D'Incerti L, Maccagnano E, Mavilio N, Capello D, Dylgjeri S, Rodriguez G, Franceschetti S, Spreafico R, Villani F. Functional MRI in Malformations of Cortical Development: Activation of Dysplastic Tissue and Functional Reorganization. J Neuroimaging 2008; 18:296-305. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1552-6569.2007.00164.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Battaglia
- Molecular Neuroanatomy Laboratory, Experimental Neurophysiology and Epileptology Department, Neurological Institute C. Besta, Via Celoria 11, Milan, Italy.
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Ictal technetium-99 m ethyl cysteinate dimer single-photon emission tomographic findings in epileptic patients with polymicrogyria syndromes: A Subtraction of ictal–interictal SPECT coregistered to MRI study. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2007; 35:1159-70. [DOI: 10.1007/s00259-007-0655-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2007] [Accepted: 11/04/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Patil S, Biassoni L, Borgwardt L. Nuclear Medicine in Pediatric Neurology and Neurosurgery: Epilepsy and Brain Tumors. Semin Nucl Med 2007; 37:357-81. [PMID: 17707242 DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2007.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy, nuclear medicine can provide important additional information in the presurgical localization of the epileptogenic focus. The main modalities used are interictal (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) and ictal regional cerebral perfusion study with single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Nuclear medicine techniques have a sensitivity of approximately 85% to 90% in the localization of an epileptogenic focus in temporal lobe epilepsy; however, in this clinical setting, they are not always clinically indicated because other techniques (eg, icterictal and ictal electroencephalogram, video telemetry, magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) may be successful in the identification of the epileptogenic focus. Nuclear medicine is very useful when MRI is negative and/or when electroencephalogram and MRI are discordant. A good technique to identify the epileptogenic focus is especially needed in the setting of extra-temporal lobe epilepsy; however, in this context, identification of the epileptogenic focus is more difficult for all techniques and the sensitivity of the isotope techniques is only 50% to 60%. This review article discusses the clinical value of the different techniques in the clinical context; it also gives practical suggestions on how to acquire good ictal SPECT and interictal FDG-PET scans. Nuclear medicine in pediatric brain tumors can help in differentiating tumor recurrence from post-treatment sequelae, in assessing the response to treatment, in directing biopsy, and in planning therapy. Both PET and SPECT tracers can be used. In this review, we discuss the use of the different tracers available in this still very new, but promising, application of radioisotope techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekhar Patil
- University College London-Institute of Child Health, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust and the National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy, London, United Kingdom
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Leite CC, Lucato LT, Sato JR, Valente KD, Otaduy MCG. Multivoxel proton MR spectroscopy in malformations of cortical development. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2007; 28:1071-5; discussion 1076-7. [PMID: 17569960 PMCID: PMC8134160 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a0511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2006] [Accepted: 11/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Malformations of cortical development (MCD) are traditionally considered as a cause of epilepsy. Our aim was to study patients with focal MCD, by using multivoxel proton MR spectroscopy; we focused not only on the lesion but also on the normal-appearing contralateral side (NACS). Our hypothesis was that the metabolic abnormality extends to the NACS; therefore, it would be inadequate to consider NACS as an internal control. MATERIALS AND METHODS We studied 16 patients with focal MCD. MR spectroscopy was performed by using a point-resolved spectroscopy sequence technique, including the MCD area and the NACS. In each volume of interest, a smaller volume of interest of 2.25 cm(3) centered on the MCD was selected to study the N-acetylaspartate/creatine (NAA/Cr) ratio. In NACS, this ratio was studied by placing a symmetric voxel in comparison with the smaller MCD volume of interest. A control group (n=30) was also studied to evaluate both white and gray matter by using the same MR spectroscopy protocol. RESULTS From 16 analyzed volumes of interest with MCD, 9 were composed of gray matter heterotopia and 7 of cortical dysplasia. MR spectroscopy of both MCD lesions and NACS (n=10) showed decreased NAA/Cr compared with that of the control group. NACS in these patients did not present significant differences regarding NAA/Cr in comparison with the affected side. CONCLUSIONS MR spectroscopy demonstrated abnormal NAA/Cr in both MCD lesions and NACS in patients harboring focal MCD, giving support to the hypothesis that in MCD metabolic abnormalities extend far away from the limits of the lesion, reaching the contralateral side.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Leite
- Department of Radiology, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Abstract
Studies using positron emission tomography (PET) have advanced our pathophysiological and biochemical understanding of focal and generalized epilepsies. H(2) (15)O PET allows quantification of cerebral blood flow and (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose-PET quantification of cerebral glucose metabolism. Neurotransmitters are directly responsible for modulating synaptic activity and newer PET tracers can provide information about synaptic activity and specific ligand-receptor relationships, which are important for epileptogenesis and the spread of epileptic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias J Koepp
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK.
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40
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Sisodiya SM, Ragge NK, Cavalleri GL, Hever A, Lorenz B, Schneider A, Williamson KA, Stevens JM, Free SL, Thompson PJ, van Heyningen V, Fitzpatrick DR. Role of SOX2 Mutations in Human Hippocampal Malformations and Epilepsy. Epilepsia 2006; 47:534-42. [PMID: 16529618 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2006.00464.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Seizures are noted in a significant proportion of cases of de novo, heterozygous, loss-of-function mutations in SOX2, ascertained because of severe bilateral eye malformations. We wished to determine the underlying cerebral phenotype in SOX2 mutation and to test the candidacy of SOX2 as a gene contributing to human epilepsies. METHODS We examined high-resolution MRI scans in four patients with SOX2 mutations, two of whom had seizures. We determined the Sox2 expression pattern in developing murine brain. We searched for SOX2 mutation in 24 patients with typical hippocampal sclerosis and for common variations in SOX2 in 655 patients without eye disease but with epilepsy, including 91 patients with febrile seizures, 93 with hippocampal sclerosis, and 258 with temporal lobe epilepsy. RESULTS Striking hippocampal and parahippocampal malformations were seen in all cases, with a history of febrile seizures or epilepsy in two of four cases. The Sox2 expression pattern in developing mouse brain supports the pattern of malformations observed. Mutation screening in patients with epilepsy did not reveal any abnormalities in SOX2. No associations were found between any clinical epilepsy phenotype and common variation in SOX2. CONCLUSIONS SOX2 haploinsufficiency causes mesial temporal malformation in humans, making SOX2 dysfunction a candidate mechanism for mesial temporal abnormalities associated with chronic epilepsy. However, although mutation of SOX2 in humans causes hippocampal malformation, SOX2 mutation or variation is unlikely to contribute commonly to mesial temporal lobe epilepsy or its structural (hippocampal sclerosis) or historic (febrile seizures) associations in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay M Sisodiya
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, and National Society for Epilepsy, Bucks SL90RJ, London, UK.
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Bast T, Ramantani G, Seitz A, Rating D. Focal cortical dysplasia: prevalence, clinical presentation and epilepsy in children and adults. Acta Neurol Scand 2006; 113:72-81. [PMID: 16411966 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2005.00555.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Focal cortical dysplasias (FCD) are defined as circumscribed malformations of cortical development. They result from an impairment of neuronal proliferation, migration and differentiation. In the diagnosis of focal epilepsy FCD prevalence ranges between 5% and 25%, depending on patient collective and imaging techniques. Several 'cryptogenic' epilepsies may be caused by FCD but have not been diagnosed because of the lack of high-quality magnetic resonance imaging assessment. Retrospective analysis of patients who have undergone epilepsy surgery can be biased because of the fact that they represent a mere subset of potential FCD diagnoses. Epilepsy typically manifests within the first years of life, but has been documented up to the age of 60 years. Cognitive impairment commonly accompanies early onset. Epilepsy is often refractory to antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment. Clinical observations and pathophysiological findings illustrate intrinsic epileptogenicity. Upregulation of drug transporter proteins has been found in FCD tissue. There is no specific drug treatment in FCD, as any AED used in focal epilepsy could prove effective. A sequential AED therapy should be designed individually and take side effects as well as developmental progresses into consideration. Fifty to sixty-five percent of FCD patients are rendered seizure-free after surgery. Presurgical evaluation should be initiated after two unsuccessful AED trials. Both risks and potential benefits regarding seizure control and developmental impairment need to be considered on an individual basis when deciding between surgical intervention and conservative treatment. Current knowledge on epilepsy course and psychomotor development in FCD is limited in the absence of qualified long-term studies combining imaging with cognitive evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bast
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Abstract
Over the past decade there have been many advances in data acquisition and analysis for structural and functional neuroimaging of people with epilepsy. New imaging sequences and analysis techniques have increased the resolution of images such that underlying structural pathology can be seen in many patients with "cryptogenic" epilepsy. When an epileptogenic lesion is present, antiepileptic drugs alone rarely prevent seizures. However, the success of surgical treatment is improved when a structural lesion has been identified. Lesions might not overlap with the area of the cortex generating seizures and may continue into areas sustaining normal functions. To prevent postsurgical morbidity, the spatial relation between functionally important areas and the epileptogenic lesion must be assessed before surgery. In this review we describe the potential of different neuroimaging techniques to show lesions, assess neuronal function, and assist with the prognosis of postsurgical outcome in patients with refractory focal epilepsy.
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Van Paesschen W. Qualitative and quantitative imaging of the hippocampus in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis. Neuroimaging Clin N Am 2004; 14:373-400, vii. [PMID: 15324854 DOI: 10.1016/j.nic.2004.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
MR imaging allows the in vivo detection of hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and has been instrumental in the delineation of the syndrome of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with HS (mTLE-HS). MR features of HS include hippocampal atrophy with an increased T2 signal. Quantitative MR imaging accurately reflects the degree of hippocampal damage.Ictal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in mTLE-HS shows typical perfusion patterns of ipsilateral temporal lobe hyperperfusion, and ipsilateral frontoparietal and contralateral cerebellar hypoperfusion. Interictal 18fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) shows multiregional hypometabolism, involving predominantly the ipsilateral temporal lobe. 11C-flumazenil PET shows hippocampal decreases in central benzodiazepine receptor density. Future strategies to study the etiology and pathogenesis of HS should include longitudinal MR imaging studies,MR studies in families with epilepsy and febrile seizures, stratification for genetic background, coregistration with SPECT and PET, partial volume correction and statistical parametric mapping analysis of SPECT and PET images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Van Paesschen
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 49 Herestraat, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Abstract
Intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG) has been traditionally used in the surgical management of medically refractory partial epilepsies to identify the location and limits of the epileptogenic area, to guide the extent of resection, and to assess its completeness. Although in clinical use for many years, the basic questions regarding indications and limitations of this method has remained unanswered. ECoG plays a major role in tailored temporal lobectomies, whereas, it serves no practical purpose in standard resection of medial temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS). Residual hippocampal spikes, unaltered by resection, correlate with a greater proportion of seizure recurrence. Intraoperative hippocampal ECoG can allow sparing of functionally important hippocampus, thus minimising postoperative memory decline. ECoG eminently aids removal of developmental malformations of brain, and most importantly, the excision of highly epileptogenic cortical dysplasias (CDs) for deciding the extent of resection for best seizure control. The ECoG can be a valuable tool during multiple subpial transections (MST).
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham Kuruvilla
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Centre for Neuroscience, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Sisodiya SM. Malformations of cortical development: burdens and insights from important causes of human epilepsy. Lancet Neurol 2004; 3:29-38. [PMID: 14693109 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(03)00620-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Malformations of cortical development (MCD) are important causes of chronic epilepsy in human beings. A blanket term, MCD encompasses many varied developmental disorders with diverse clinical manifestations in patients that neurologists, paediatricians, and learning disability psychiatrists will encounter. Advances in imaging and genetics have led to a significant increase in our understanding of MCD, which has in turn enriched our knowledge of human epileptogenesis and normal brain development and function. In this review, I discuss some of the most common or enlightening MCD: focal cortical dysplasia, periventricular heterotopia, polymicrogyria, band heterotopia and lissencephaly, dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumours, and microdysgenesis. Clinical and imaging features, genetic aetiologies, treatments, and the insights that have resulted from MCD study are covered. The burden of epilepsy due to MCD is significant and there is still much to learn about MCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay M Sisodiya
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, Institute of Neurology, University College London, UK.
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Lhatoo SD, Solomon JK, McEvoy AW, Kitchen ND, Shorvon SD, Sander JW. A prospective study of the requirement for and the provision of epilepsy surgery in the United Kingdom. Epilepsia 2003; 44:673-6. [PMID: 12752466 DOI: 10.1046/j.1528-1157.2003.46002.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Of the 30,000 persons in whom epilepsy develops annually in the United Kingdom, in approximately 6000 (20%), intractability develops. Some of these patients will be appropriate for epilepsy surgery. We aimed to estimate the number of patients who should be considered surgical candidates, by extrapolation from a population-based study of prognosis and the number who are receiving epilepsy surgery, by a survey of U.K. neurosurgeons. METHODS We identified the number of patients who may eventually require surgery from a prospective cohort of patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy. We identified all U.K. neurosurgeons who had performed any epilepsy surgery in the past year. Each identified surgeon prospectively recorded the number and types of operations carried out for 6 months. RESULTS Of newly diagnosed patients each year, 450 (1.5%) may eventually require surgery. Thirty-two respondents (22% of all U.K. neurosurgeons) reported that they performed epilepsy surgery. The 211 operations were carried out in the 6 months surveyed (422 operations annually or 13 per surgeon per year). Temporal lobe resection (77%) was the most common procedure. CONCLUSIONS Based on a prevalence of 5/1,000 persons with epilepsy, < or =4,500 patients in the U.K. require epilepsy surgery. Every year, 450 patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy who may eventually require surgery are added to this "surgical pool." At the current annual rate of operations, a large number of refractory patients remain untreated. This is probably partly because many patients are not referred for specialist care and therefore remain underinvestigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samden D Lhatoo
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol BS6 7AB, England, UK
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Feichtinger M, Holl A, Körner E, Schröttner O, Eder H, Unger F, Pendl G, Wurst L, Golaszewski S, Payer F, Fazekas F, Ott E. Future aspects of the presurgical evaluation in epilepsy. ACTA NEUROCHIRURGICA. SUPPLEMENT 2003; 84:17-26. [PMID: 12379001 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-7091-6117-3_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy surgery is a successful therapeutic approach in patients with medically intractable epilepsy. The presurgical evaluation aims to detect the epileptogenic brain area by use of different diagnostic techniques. In this review article the current diagnostic procedures applied for this purpose are described. The diagnostic armamentarium can be divided conceptually into three different groups: assessment of function/dysfunction, structural/morphologic imaging methods and functional neuroimaging techniques. Properties, diagnostic power and limits of all diagnostic tools used in the diagnostic evaluation are discussed. In addition, future perspectives and the diagnostic value of new technologies are mentioned. Some are increasingly gaining acceptance in the routine preoperative diagnostic procedure like MR volumetry or MR spectroscopy of the hippocampus in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. Some, on the other hand, like MEG and 11C-flumazenil PET, still remain experimental diagnostic tools as they are technically demanding and cost intensive. Besides the refinement of established techniques, co-registration of different modalities like spike-triggered functional MRI will play an important role in the non-invasive detection of the epileptic seizure focus and may change the regimen of the preoperative diagnostic work up of epilepsy patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Feichtinger
- Department of Neurology, Karl-Franzens University, Graz, Austria
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the use of neuroimaging in clinical practice and to assess the prevalence of detected structural abnormalities in epilepsy patients in a clinical set up. METHODS 919 outpatients were identified and the scan results reviewed. A total of 677 patients had chronic active epilepsy (88 had idiopathic generalised epilepsy (IGE), 588 had localisation related epilepsy, one had symptomatic generalised epilepsy), 57 had a single epileptic seizure, 46 were in remission, and 139 had non-epileptic attacks. RESULTS 391 patients had no scan (53 patients in this group had IGE, 182 had localisation related epilepsy, one had generalised symptomatic epilepsy, 18 had single epileptic attacks, 21 were in remission, 116 had non-epileptic attacks). Altogether 528 patients had a scan, the results were not available in 33, 163 had x ray computed tomography (CT) only, 178 had standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (slice thickness 5 mm), and 154 had high resolution MRI (including a T1 weighted sequence with 1.5 mm thick slices). Some 252 of 495 scans (51%) were abnormal. Abnormalities were hippocampal sclerosis (n=128), atrophy or non-specific white matter lesions (n=35), vascular abnormalities (n=27), tumours (n=25), brain damage (n=24), malformations of cortical development (n=13). Excluding atrophy and non-specific white matter lesions the prevalence of detected abnormalities was 54% in localisation related epilepsy, 18% in single seizure patients, 16% in epilepsy in remission, and 0% in IGE and non-epileptic attacks. CONCLUSIONS Abnormalities were detected in more than half of all patients with localisation related epilepsy, and in about one in five patients with single seizures or epilepsy in remission. Many patients had no scan or only CT or standard MRI. The true prevalence of structural abnormalities may be have been higher. Scanning did not add any information in patients with IGE or non-epileptic attacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- U C Wieshmann
- The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Lower Lane, Liverpool L9 7IJ, UK.
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Montenegro MA, Li L, Guerreiro MM, Guerreiro CAM, Cendes F. Focal Cortical Dysplasia: Improving Diagnosis and Localization With Magnetic Resonance Imaging Multiplanar and Curvilinear Reconstruction. J Neuroimaging 2002. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1552-6569.2002.tb00125.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Lee BI, Heo K, Kim JS, Kim OJ, Park SA, Lim SR, Kim DI, Yoon PH, Kim DK. Syndromic diagnosis at the epilepsy clinic: role of MRI in lobar epilepsies. Epilepsia 2002; 43:496-504. [PMID: 12027910 DOI: 10.1046/j.1528-1157.2002.32901.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an essential diagnostic tool for the management of epilepsy at modern epilepsy clinics. This study was conducted to incorporate MRI features into the international classification of epilepsies and epilepsy syndromes (ICEES) proposed by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE). METHODS Three hundred consecutive patients newly registered in the Yonsei Epilepsy Clinic underwent stepwise classifications based on clinical features, clinical EEG, and clinical EEG-MRI correlations. The patients were required to have epilepsy and have undergone both EEG and MRI for inclusion in the study. Interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) in the EEG were divided into lobar, multilobar, and generalized. MRI lesions were divided into lobar and multilobar lesions. Lobar epilepsies (LEs) were divided into temporal, frontal, parietal, occipital, rolandic, temporoparietooccipital junctional, multilobar, and nonlocalized LEs. RESULTS Two hundred forty-nine patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. In the first-step diagnosis, 190 patients were classified as having localization-related epilepsy; 24 patients, generalized epilepsy; 34 patients, undetermined epilepsy; and one patient, a special syndrome. EEG revealed IEDs in 124 (50%) patients, and the second-step diagnosis changed the diagnostic categories of 79 (32%) patients. MRI detected lesions in 106 (43%) patients, and the third-step diagnosis changed the diagnostic categories of 30 (12%) patients. The nonspecific diagnostic categories of ICEES decreased from 49% to 37% and then to 29%, as diagnosis progressed from steps one to three. In cases of LE, MRI was superior to EEG in its clinical correlation. Additionally, the diagnostic precision in temporal lobe epilepsy was far better than that for other LEs. CONCLUSIONS The impact of MRI on ICEES was only modest in terms of changing diagnostic categories, although MRI provided a structural substrate for epilepsy in 38% of patients with negative EEGs. In LE, MRI was as sensitive as EEG, and its clinical correlation was superior to that of EEG, which strongly supports the rationale of incorporating MRI into ICEES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byung In Lee
- Department of Neurology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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