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Doerrfuss JI, Graf L, Hüsing T, Holtkamp M, Ilyas-Feldmann M. Risk of breakthrough seizures depends on type and etiology of epilepsy. Epilepsia 2024. [PMID: 38943516 DOI: 10.1111/epi.18048] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to analyze whether the rate of breakthrough seizures in patients taking antiseizure medication (ASM) who have been seizure-free for at least 12 months varies among different types and etiologies of epilepsy. Given the relative ease of achieving seizure freedom with ASM in patients with post-ischemic stroke epilepsy, we hypothesized that this etiology is associated with a reduced risk of breakthrough seizures. METHODS We defined a breakthrough seizure as an unprovoked seizure occurring while the patient was taking ASM after a period of at least 12 months without seizures. Data were analyzed retrospectively from a tertiary epilepsy outpatient clinic. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they either had a breakthrough seizure at any time or a seizure-free interval of at least 2 years. Our primary endpoint was rate of breakthrough seizures. We conducted univariable and multivariable analyses to identify variables associated with breakthrough seizures. RESULTS Of 521 patients (53% females, median age = 49 years) included, 29% had a breakthrough seizure, which occurred after a median seizure-free interval of 34 months (quartiles = 22, 62). When controlling for clinically relevant covariates, breakthrough seizures were associated with post-ischemic stroke epilepsy (odds ratio [OR] = .267, 95% confidence interval [CI] = .075-.946), genetic generalized epilepsy (OR = .559; 95% CI = .319-.978), intellectual disability (OR = 2.768, 95% CI = 1.271-6.031), and the number of ASMs previously and currently tried (OR = 1.203, 95% CI = 1.056-1.371). Of the 151 patients with breakthrough seizures, 34.3% did not reachieve terminal 12-month seizure freedom at the last visit. SIGNIFICANCE This is the first study to show an association between type and etiology of epilepsy and risk of breakthrough seizures. Our data suggest that epilepsies in which seizure freedom can be obtained more easily also exhibit a lower risk of breakthrough seizures. These findings may help to better counsel seizure-free patients on their further seizure prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob I Doerrfuss
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin, Germany
- Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Luise Graf
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thea Hüsing
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Holtkamp
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Diagnostics of Epilepsy, Epilepsy Center Berlin-Brandenburg, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Ilyas-Feldmann
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin, Germany
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Nasir M, Abebaw E, Ahmed M, Ketema DB. Clinical Characteristics, Treatment Outcome and Associated Factors of Epilepsy Among Children at Hospitals of North-West Ethiopia. Pediatric Health Med Ther 2023; 14:385-404. [PMID: 37927397 PMCID: PMC10625381 DOI: 10.2147/phmt.s436022] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epilepsy is an important cause of neurological morbidity in children and adolescents. Clinical parameters are the main diagnostic tools, especially in developing countries. Although cost-effective treatments for epilepsy are available, studies have shown that uncontrolled seizures can occur in many patients. Objective To assess clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes, and associated factors for controlled epilepsy among children with epilepsy who underwent follow-up at the Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-west Ethiopia from October 28, 2020, to April 28, 2021. Methods An institutional-based retrospective cohort study was conducted from October 28, 2020, to April 28, 2021. A total of 385 participants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in the study. A pretested, structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire with a chart review was used to collect data. The data were entered into the Epi-data software version 4.4.2.1 and then exported to the Stata version 14 statistical package for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, treatment profiles, and treatment outcomes of patients with epilepsy. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify factors associated with treatment outcomes. Results The most frequent type of seizure among the 385 respondents was Generalized-tonic-clonic seizures (88.1%). The proximate cause of seizures was identified in 15% of patients, of whom 45 had a perinatal history (8.8%), head injury (3.6%), and CNS infection (2.3%). One-third of patients had poor seizure control. Caregiver relationship (father AOR=0.58; 95th CI:0.35,0.97) and poor adherence (AOR=2.97; 95th CI:1.82, 4.86) were significantly associated with treatment outcome. Conclusion One-third of children with epilepsy have poor seizure control. Poor adherence to treatment is implicated in poor control. Counseling caregivers on proper treatment and adherence to anti-epileptic medication is recommended to improve treatment outcome in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Nasir
- Pediatrics Department, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Ermias Abebaw
- Pediatrics Department, ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Muluken Ahmed
- Pediatrics Department, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
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Crook CL, Margolis SA, Goldstein A, Davis JD, Gonzalez JS, Grant AC, Nakhutina L. Medication self-management in predominantly African American and Caribbean American people with epilepsy: The role of medication beliefs and epilepsy knowledge. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 146:109313. [PMID: 37544193 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suboptimal medication adherence is common in people with epilepsy (PWE) and disproportionally prevalent among racially/ethnically diverse patients. Understanding reasons and risks of suboptimal adherence is critical to developing interventions that reduce negative health outcomes. This cross-sectional study characterized common barriers to medication self-management, prevalence of negative medication beliefs, and gaps in epilepsy knowledge among predominantly African American and Caribbean American PWE and examined their interrelationships. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty-three PWE (Age = 42.1 ± 13.2; 60% female; 79% Black; 19% Hispanic/Latino) completed validated self-report questionnaires about medication self-management, medication beliefs, and epilepsy knowledge. Correlations and t-tests examined interrelationships. RESULTS Four barriers to medication self-management were common, including not taking antiseizure medications at the same time every day, forgetting doses, not planning refills before running out, and spreading out doses when running low. More than half the sample believed medications were overused by prescribers. Nearly one-third believed medications were harmful, and nearly a quarter believed their antiseizure medications were minimally necessary with almost half reporting elevated concerns about negative consequences of antiseizure medications. Poorer medication self-management was associated with stronger beliefs that medications in general are harmful/overused by prescribers. Individuals who were "accepting" of their antiseizure medications (i.e., high perceived necessity, low concerns) were less likely to spread out time between doses when running low compared to non-accepting counterparts. Knowledge gaps related to the cause of seizures/epilepsy, chronicity of epilepsy treatment, and seizure semiology/diagnosis were common. Nevertheless, epilepsy knowledge was unrelated to medication self-management and medication beliefs. CONCLUSIONS In these PWE, the most prevalent reasons for suboptimal medication self-management were behaviorally mediated and potentially modifiable. Negative medication beliefs and misconceptions about epilepsy and its treatment were common. Results further suggest that interventions addressing negative medication beliefs will be more effective than knowledge-based psychoeducation alone to improve medication self-management in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara L Crook
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, 222 Richmond St., Providence, RI 02903, USA; Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St., Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Seth A Margolis
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, 222 Richmond St., Providence, RI 02903, USA; Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St., Providence, RI 02903, USA.
| | | | - Jennifer D Davis
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, 222 Richmond St., Providence, RI 02903, USA; Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St., Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Gonzalez
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, 1165 Morris Park Ave., Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Ave., Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Arthur C Grant
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Luba Nakhutina
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
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Aldosari AN, Alghamdi A, Alharthi A, Albuhayri A, Ghurab S, Alghamdi M, Aldosari M. The Frequency and Precipitating Factors for Breakthrough Seizures in Children with Epilepsy. J Epilepsy Res 2023; 13:13-18. [PMID: 37720680 PMCID: PMC10501813 DOI: 10.14581/jer.23003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose To determine the common precipitating factors for breakthrough seizures in children with epilepsy. Methods This retrospective study reviewed the charts of children with epilepsy who were followed up in the pediatric neurology clinic of King Fahad Hospital in Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia, between January 2015 and August 2022. Children between 1 to 14 years of age who had epilepsy, as per the International League Against Epilepsy definition and received anti-seizure medication with a seizure-free period of at least 2 months before breakthrough seizure episode, were included in the study. Results Of the 108 children included in the study, the mean age was 6.8±1.6 years, and among them (55.5%) were male. Most parents (69.5%) were unaware of the triggering factors of seizure. The majority of patients (88%) reported at least one precipitating factor for breakthrough seizures and the most common one was systemic infection associated with fever (52.8%), and then non-compliance to medications in (34.3%) of the patients. In terms of the electroencephalogram, around 84 patients (77.8%) had abnormal electroencephalogram. Finally, monotherapy was maintained in 63.9% of patients. Conclusions We conclude that the most common trigger for breakthrough seizure is a systemic infection associated with fever and non-compliance to anti-seizure medications. Increasing the level of awareness by different methods may help limit or even prevent seizures from occurring. Randomized controlled trials could shed light on the adjustment of anti-seizure medications temporarily by increasing the dosage or giving extra doses during the infection to avoid breakthrough seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Alghamdi
- Department of Pediatrics, King Fahad Hospital, Al Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayidh Alharthi
- Department of Pediatrics, King Fahad Hospital, Al Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Suhaib Ghurab
- Department of Pediatrics, King Fahad Hospital, Al Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mufleh Aldosari
- Department of Epidemiology, As Sulayyil General Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Kravchenko JA, Goldberg EM, Mattis J. Optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulation of seizure threshold in mice. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102019. [PMID: 36640370 PMCID: PMC9846020 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.102019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present a protocol using optogenetics or chemogenetics to assess the neuronal circuits contributing to seizure initiation. Both approaches allow for targeted control of neuronal populations in vivo and can be combined with experimental manipulations to acutely induce seizures in rodent models. We describe how to (1) introduce and (2) activate optogenetic or chemogenetic actuators while (3) inducing seizures via hyperthermia in a mouse model of epilepsy. This protocol can be adapted for use in other induced seizure models. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Mattis et al. (2022).1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Kravchenko
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Ethan M Goldberg
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Neurology, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Joanna Mattis
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Bayane YB, Senbeta BS. Pattern of anti-epileptic medications nonadherence and associated factors at ambulatory clinic of Jimma Medical Center, Southwestern Ethiopia: A prospective observational study. SAGE Open Med 2023; 11:20503121231160817. [PMID: 36969722 PMCID: PMC10031813 DOI: 10.1177/20503121231160817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study is designed to assess the pattern of nonadherence, and associated factors among ambulatory patients with epilepsy at Jimma Medical Center, Southwestern Ethiopia, from November 2020 to April 2021. Methods: A hospital-based prospective observational study was employed. A consecutive sampling method was used to recruit study participants. Nonadherence was assessed by the Hill–Bone compliance to the high blood pressure therapy scale. A threshold of 18 scores was used to classify adherence status. Epi-Data manager version 4.6 was used for data entry and all statistical analysis was performed by Statistical Package for Social Science 25.0. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to explore associated factors. Results: A survey included 334 patients with epilepsy. One hundred twenty-two (36.52%) of the study participants were found to be non-adherent. The factors associated with nonadherence were poor involvement of the patient in the therapeutic decision (adjusted odds ratio = 1.74; 95% confidence interval: 1.04–2.90; p = 0.034), per month income of lesser than1000 Ethiopian birr (adjusted odds ratio = 2.66; 95% confidence interval: 1.03–6.84; p = 0.042), recent seizure episodes (adjusted odds ratio = 1.97; 95% confidence interval: 1.20–3.23; p = 0.007), adverse drug reaction (AOR = 2.13; 95% confidence interval: 1.31–3.47; p = 0.002), and negative medication belief (adjusted odds ratio = 1.28; 95% confidence interval: 1.53–2.25; p = 0.043). Conclusions: In our setting, the magnitude of nonadherence was substantially high. Hence, providing regular health-related information about the disease and treatment, supplying free antiepileptic drugs, routine assessment of adverse drug reactions, and a multidisciplinary approach involving patients may improve adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadeta Babu Bayane
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Science, Mettu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
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Bernal Cobo R, Giraldo Tapias LM, Gómez Escobar T, Rueda Cárdenas LF, Zapata Berruecos JF, Vásquez Trespalacios EM, Giraldo Castrillón YM, Rojas-Gualdrón DF. Factors involved in time reduction between seizure relapses in patients with epilepsy attending emergency rooms in Medellín, Colombia. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 126:108458. [PMID: 34906900 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seizure relapses are the leading cause of admission to emergency rooms (ER) in people with epilepsy. OBJECTIVE To analyze administrative and clinical factors associated with the duration between seizure relapses in people with epilepsy admitted to the Neurological Institute of Colombia (Medellin) between July 2018 and July 2019. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective follow-up study of 156 patients over 18 years old, diagnosed with epilepsy, and treated for over a year. The outcome variable was the time between seizure relapses, identified through the record of ER attendances. In addition, difficulties in the prescription filling process (delay, omission, or brand change) and clinical characteristics were analyzed as potential associated influence factors. The statistical analysis was performed using the Prentice, Williams & Peterson-Gap Time survival model for recurrent events. Finally, Adjusted Hazard Ratios (aHR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) are also presented. RESULTS One hundred fifty-six patients were analyzed. Their average age of diagnosis was 15.5 years (SD = 22.5), the median number of monthly seizures was 3 (SD = 9.3), and 50.6% were women. Moreover, difficulties in the prescription filling process were associated with a time reduction between seizure relapses (aHR = 2.61; 95%CI 1.49-4.57), showing a similar impact as having a history of three or four types of events (aHR = 2.96; 95%CI 1.23-7.12) and neuropsychiatric comorbidity (aHR = 1.89; 95%CI 1.04-3.54). CONCLUSION Neuropsychiatric comorbidity, history of several types of events, and experiencing difficulties with prescription filling are associated with lower benefit from treatment to control seizure relapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Bernal Cobo
- Residente Universidad CES, Instituto Neurológico de Colombia, Medellín, Colombia
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Antiseizure Drug Levels in Children Aged 2–12 Years Presenting With Breakthrough Seizures: A Single Center Cross-sectional Study. Indian Pediatr 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13312-021-2307-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Chahal S, Govil N, Nadda A, Kaloti AS, Gupta N. Impact of a Brief Structured Psychoeducation Session on Antiepileptic Drug Adherence and Treatment Outcome in Persons with Epilepsy: A Prospective Cohort Study. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2021; 24:361-366. [PMID: 34446998 PMCID: PMC8370178 DOI: 10.4103/aian.aian_447_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Poor adherence to antiepileptic drugs is one of the most important causes of treatment failure in persons with epilepsy (PWE). This study was aimed at assessing the impact of psychoeducation on drug adherence and treatment outcome in PWE. Methods: It was a prospective cohort study with a pre and posttest intervention design. A cohort of 100 epilepsy patients aged 18–65 years and on antiepileptic drugs for at least 6 months attending the outpatient department was enrolled in the study. Drug adherence was measured by Medication Adherence Rating Scale. A structured eight-domain epilepsy psychoeducation session with pictorial description was given to the study subjects in two parts (group and individually) lasting for a total of 30 min on the day of baseline assessment. Adherence and treatment outcome variables were assessed by an independent observer 4 months after the psychoeducation session. Chi-square test and paired t-test were used to analyze the data using SPSS version 20 with P value less than 0.05 considered as significant. Results: There was a statistically significant (P < 0.001) increase in the number of patients who were adherent to medications after psychoeducation session. There was a significant reduction in mean seizure frequency (0.68 ± 0.65) and seizure severity in terms of injuries sustained during seizure episodes post intervention. Regularities in the follow-up visits were also witnessed. A significant decrease in the number of hospital admissions (0.09 ± 0.32), mean inpatient treatment days (0.44 ± 2.19), and emergency room visits (0.19 ± 0.15) was noted 4 months after the psychoeducation session indicative of better treatment outcome. Conclusion: The present study proves the efficacy of a structured educational program in improving drug adherence and treatment outcome in a cohort of people with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savita Chahal
- Department of Psychiatry, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC), Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Nikhil Govil
- Department of General Medicine, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC), Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Anuradha Nadda
- Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, PGIMER, Chandigarh, India
| | - Amandeep S Kaloti
- Department of General Medicine, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC), Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Nishu Gupta
- Department of Paediatrics, PGIMER Satellite Centre Sangrur, Punjab, India
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Govil N, Chahal S, Gupta N, Kaloti AS, Nadda A, Singh P. Factors Associated with Poor Antiepileptic Drugs Adherence in Below Poverty Line Persons with Epilepsy: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2021; 12:95-101. [PMID: 33531765 PMCID: PMC7846329 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1721200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Adherence to antiepileptic drugs (AED) is essential for adequate seizure control in epilepsy. People with low socioeconomic status are more vulnerable to poor adherence to AED. The present study aimed to explore factors associated with poor adherence to antiepileptic drugs in below poverty line (BPL) persons with epilepsy (PWE).
Methods
The research had a cross-sectional design with inclusion of persons aged 18 to 65 years and an established diagnosis of epilepsy. Holding a BPL card (Yellow card) was taken as a measure for BPL criteria. Adherence to antiepileptic drugs was assessed using medication adherence rating scale (MARS). Univariate analysis with Chi-square test was used to determine the association between various variables and AED adherence, while the predictors of adherence were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis.
Results
There was a total of 88 BPL PWE. The mean age of male and female patients was 35.0 ± 15.0 & 32.0 ± 10.1 years, respectively. Adherence for drugs were found to be 30.7% and nonadherence to be 44.3%. Low (illiterate or primary) education (OR 0.041 [0.01–0.21]), polytherapy (OR 0.088 [0.02–0.40]), and substance abuse (OR 0.05 [0.01–0.58]) were found to have significant association with nonadherence to AEDs. Age, gender, marital status, family composition, occupation, rural urban background, distance from health care facility, duration of epilepsy, and side effects of AED were not found to have significant association with adherence.
Conclusion
There is a need for psychoeducational programs for the people having low education status and polytherapy to form positive beliefs in AEDs. Substance abuse should also be addressed while treating them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Govil
- Department of General Medicine, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC), Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Savita Chahal
- Department of Psychiatry, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC), Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Nishu Gupta
- Department of Paediatrics, PGIMER Satellite Centre Sangrur, Punjab, India
| | - Amandeep Singh Kaloti
- Department of General Medicine, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC), Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Anuradha Nadda
- Department of Community Medicine, Gian Sagar Medical College, Banur, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | - Parmal Singh
- Department of Community Medicine, Adesh Medical College, Ambla, Haryana, India
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Anguzu R, Akun P, Katairo T, Abbo C, Ningwa A, Ogwang R, Mwaka AD, Marsh K, Newton CR, Idro R. Household poverty, schooling, stigma and quality of life in adolescents with epilepsy in rural Uganda. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107584. [PMID: 33248944 PMCID: PMC7613327 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy remains a leading chronic neurological disorder in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. In Uganda, the highest burden is among young rural people. We aimed to; (i) describe socio-economic status (including schooling), and household poverty in adolescents living with epilepsy (ALE) compared to unaffected counterparts in the same communities and (ii) determine the factors associated with the overall quality of life (QoL). METHODS This was a cross-sectional survey nested within a larger study of ALE compared to age-matched healthy community children in Uganda. Between Sept 2016 to Sept 2017, 154 ALE and 154 healthy community controls were consecutively recruited. Adolescents recruited were frequency and age-matched based on age categories 10-14 and 15-19 years. Clinical history and standardized assessments were conducted. One control participant had incomplete assessment and was excluded. The primary outcome was overall QoL and key variables assessed were schooling status and household poverty. Descriptive and multivariable linear regression analysis were conducted for independent associations with overall QoL. RESULTS Mean (SD) age at seizure onset was 8.8 (3.9) years and median (IQR) monthly seizure burden was 2 (1-4). Epilepsy was associated with living in homes with high household poverty; 95/154 (61.7%) ALE lived in the poorest homes compared to 68/153 (44.5%) of the healthy adolescents, p = 0.001. Nearly two-thirds of ALE had dropped out of school and only 48/154 (31.2%) were currently attending school compared to 136/153 (88.9%) of healthy controls, p < 0.001. QoL was lowest among ALE who never attended school (p < 0.001), with primary education (p = 0.006) compared to those with at least secondary education. Stigma scores [mean(SD)] were highest among ALE in the poorest [69.1(34.6)], and wealthy [70.2(32.2)] quintiles compared to their counterparts in poorer [61.8(31.7)], medium [68.0(32.7)] and wealthiest [61.5(33.3)] quintiles, though not statistically significant (p = 0.75). After adjusting for covariates, ALE currently attending school had higher overall QoL compared to their counterparts who never attended school (β = 4.20, 95%CI: 0.90,7.49, p = 0.013). QoL scores were higher among ALE with ≥secondary education than those with no or primary education (β = 10.69, 95%CI: 1.65, 19.72). CONCLUSIONS ALE in this rural area are from the poorest households, are more likely to drop out of school and have the lowest QoL. Those with poorer seizure control are most affected. ALE should be included among vulnerable population groups and in addition to schooling, strategies for seizure control and addressing the epilepsy treatment gap in affected homes should be specifically targeted in state poverty eradication programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Anguzu
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,Centre for Tropical Neuroscience, Kampala, Uganda,Institute of Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Pamela Akun
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,Centre for Tropical Neuroscience, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Thomas Katairo
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Catherine Abbo
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Albert Ningwa
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,Centre for Tropical Neuroscience, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rodney Ogwang
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda,Centre for Tropical Neuroscience, Kampala, Uganda,Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Kevin Marsh
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Charles R. Newton
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, Kilifi, Kenya,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard Idro
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda; Centre for Tropical Neuroscience, Kampala, Uganda; Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Collaborative Programme, Kilifi, Kenya; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Koltai DC, Dunn TW, Smith PJ, Sinha DD, Bobholz S, Kaddumukasa M, Kakooza-Mwesige A, Kajumba M, Smith CE, Kaddumukasa MN, Teuwen DE, Nakasujja N, Chakraborty P, Kolls BJ, Nakku J, Haglund MM, Fuller AT. Sociocultural determinants and patterns of healthcare utilization for epilepsy care in Uganda. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107304. [PMID: 32768344 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is a global public health concern, with the majority of cases occurring in lower- and middle-income countries where the treatment gap remains formidable. In this study, we simultaneously explore how beliefs about epilepsy causation, perceived barriers to care, seizure disorder characteristics, and demographics influence the initial choice of healthcare for epilepsy and its impact on attaining biomedical care (BMC). METHODS This study utilized the baseline sample (n = 626) from a prospective cohort study of people with epilepsy (PWE) attending three public hospitals in Uganda (Mulago National Referral Hospital, Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital) for epilepsy care. Patient and household demographics, clinical seizure disorder characteristics, and sociocultural questionnaires were administered. Logistic regression and principal component analyses (PCA) were conducted to examine associations with the choice of primary seizure treatment. RESULTS The sample was 49% female, and 24% lived in rural settings. A biomedical health facility was the first point of care for 355 (56.7%) participants, while 229 (36.6%) first sought care from a traditional healer and 42 (6.7%) from a pastoral healer. Preliminary inspection of candidate predictors using relaxed criteria for significance (p < 0.20) identified several factors potentially associated with a greater odds of seeking BMC first. Demographic predictors included older caredriver (decision-maker for the participant) age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.99, 1.02], p-value: 0.09), greater caredriver education level (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: [1.07, 1.37], p-value = 0.003), and lower ratio of sick to healthy family members (OR = 0.77 [0.56, 1.05], P = 0.097). For clinical predictors, none of the proposed predictors associated significantly with seeking BMC first. Self-report causation predictors associated with a greater odds of seeking BMC first included higher belief in biological causes of epilepsy (OR = 1.31 [0.92, 1.88], P = 0.133) and lower belief in socio-spiritual causes of epilepsy (OR = 0.68 [0.56, 0.84], P < 0.001). In the multivariate model, only higher caredriver education (OR = 1.19 [1.04, 1.36], P = 0.009) and lower belief in socio-spiritual causes of epilepsy (OR = 0.69 [0.56, 0.86], P < 0.01) remained as predictors of seeking BMC first. Additionally, PCA revealed a pattern which included high income with low beliefs in nonbiological causes of epilepsy as being associated with seeking BMC first (OR = 1.32 [1.12, 1.55], p = 0.001). Despite reaching some form of care faster, individuals seeking care from traditional or pastoral healers experienced a significant delay to eventual BMC (P < 0.001), with an average delay of more than two years (traditional healer: 2.53 years [1.98, 3.24]; pastoral care: 2.18 [1.21, 3.91]). CONCLUSIONS Coupled with low economic and educational status, belief in spiritual causation of epilepsy is a dominant determinant of opting for traditional or pastoral healing over BMC, regardless of concurrent belief in biological etiologies. There is a prolonged delay to eventual BMC for PWE who begin their treatment seeking with nonallopathic providers, and although nonallopathic healers provide PWE with benefits not provided by BMC, this notable delay likely prevents earlier administration of evidence-based care with known efficacy. Based on these findings, initiatives to increase public awareness of neurobiological causes of epilepsy and effectiveness of biomedical drug treatments may be effective in preventing delays to care, as would programs designed to facilitate cooperation and referral among traditional, faith-based, and biomedical providers. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Timothy W Dunn
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University, Forge Center for Health Data Science, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick J Smith
- Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Drishti D Sinha
- Duke University, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Samuel Bobholz
- University of Wisconsin - Madison, Department of Neurology, 1685 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705-2281, USA
| | - Mark Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mayanja Kajumba
- Department of Mental Health and Community Psychology, Makerere University School of Psychology, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Caleigh E Smith
- Duke University, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Martin N Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- UCB, Allée de la recherche 60, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Payal Chakraborty
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Brad J Kolls
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Neuroscience Medicine, 300 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, P.O. Box 7017, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, 3100 Tower Blvd, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, 3100 Tower Blvd, Durham, NC 27707, USA
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Kubota T, Kuroda N. Exacerbation of neurological symptoms and COVID-19 severity in patients with preexisting neurological disorders and COVID-19: A systematic review. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2021; 200:106349. [PMID: 33172719 PMCID: PMC7604080 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2020.106349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with chronic diseases likely develop severe 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19). However, little is known about the effects of COVID-19 on patients with neurological disorders. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the severity of COVID-19 and its effect on neurological symptoms in patients with preexisting neurological disorder and COVID-19. METHODS We searched the MEDLINE (PubMed) and medRxiv databases for reports of patients with both preexisting neurological disorders and COVID-19. Studies reporting data on changes in the symptoms of preexisting neurological disorders and/or the severity of COVID-19 were included. RESULTS Twenty-six articles with 2278 patients with preexisting neurological disorder and COVID-19 were identified. Of 232 patients, 74 (31.9 %) showed exacerbation of preexisting neurological symptoms of dementia (55/92; 59.5 %), Parkinson's disease (10/17; 58.8 %), epilepsy (1/1; 100 %), and unspecified neurological disorders (8/106; 7.5 %). Of 2168 patients, 478 (22.0 %) showed severe COVID-19 course. These included patients with cerebrovascular disease (86/445; 19.3 %), dementia (70/316; 22.2 %), Parkinson's disease (25/214; 11.7 %), multiple sclerosis (28/71; 39.4 %), spinal cord injury (5/7; 71.4 %), epilepsy (10/98; 10.2 %) and unspecified neurological disorders (254/1011; 25 %). CONCLUSIONS Patients with preexisting neurological disorders and COVID-19 may develop exacerbation of neurological symptoms and severe COVID-19. Clinicians should be aware of the risk of symptom exacerbation and severe COVID-19 in patients with preexisting neurological disease and should focus on the prevention and early care of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Kubota
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals of Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, USA; Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA.
| | - Naoto Kuroda
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University, Detroit, USA; Department of Epileptology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Chakraborty P, Vissoci JRN, Muhumuza C, Fuller AT, Koltai DC, Nshemerirwe S, Haglund MM, Kaddumukasa MN. Validity of the Personal Impact of Epilepsy Scale (PIES) in patients with epilepsy in Uganda. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107303. [PMID: 32718815 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We sought to address the construct validity and reliability of the Personal Impact of Epilepsy Scale (PIES), an epilepsy-specific quality-of-life measure, in patients with epilepsy in Uganda. We also sought to assess the applicability of the scale across three languages: English, Luganda, and Runyankole. METHODS Patients with epilepsy (N = 626) were recruited at the time of care seeking from Mulago National Referral Hospital (MNRH), Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital (BNRMH), and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), and were given the English, Runyankole, and Luganda versions of the PIES as a part of a larger interview. Reliability, internal consistency specifically, was assessed using three parameters: Cronbach's alpha, McDonald's Omega, and composite reliability. Construct validity (internal structure) was evaluated with principal component analysis (PCA) for three factors, as well as confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for a three-factor structure of the scale. We also assessed correlations between the three PIES subscales and the seizure severity question in the Liverpool Seizure Severity Scale (LSSS) and reported seizure frequency. RESULTS The three-factor model of the PIES had adequate reliability, with Cronbach's Alpha, McDonald's Omega, and composite reliability values over 0.7, except for the Cronbach's Alpha and McDonald's Omega values for the second factor, which was slightly lower than 0.7 in the full sample as well as when stratified by study language. The PCA and CFA models for the scale demonstrated adequate fit with the Tucker-Lewis index (TLI), comparative fit index (CFI), and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), with TLI and CFI values above 0.9 and RMSEA values less than 0.08. However, the model demonstrated inadequate fit with the Chi-square indicator, which yielded a significant p-value. Individual factor loadings ranged from 0.50 to 0.95 in the full sample, 0.45 to 0.98 in the English sample, and 0.45 to 0.93 in the Luganda sample. Finally, the three PIES subscales aligned with reported seizure frequency and the seizure severity question from the LSSS. CONCLUSIONS This study presents the first Luganda and Runyankole versions of the PIES, and the first validation of this scale in English and Luganda with patients with epilepsy in Uganda. The PIES was found to have acceptable psychometric properties for reliability and validity parameters. Thus, the scale is recommended for use and for further investigation in patients with epilepsy in Uganda. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Payal Chakraborty
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joao Ricardo Nickenig Vissoci
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christine Muhumuza
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Makerere University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, New Mulago complex, P.O.BOX 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Sylvia Nshemerirwe
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, P.O.BOX 7017, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Martin N Kaddumukasa
- Department of Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda; School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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O'Dwyer R. Epilepsy: Workup and Management in Adults. Semin Neurol 2020; 40:624-637. [PMID: 33176373 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1719069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
When managing epilepsy, there is a temptation to focus care with respect to the last and the next seizure. However, epilepsy is a multifaceted chronic condition and should be treated as such. Epilepsy comes with many physical risks, psychological effects, and socioeconomic ramifications, demanding a long-term commitment from the treating physician. Patients with epilepsy, compared to other chronically ill patient populations, have a worse quality of life, family function, and less social support. The majority of patients are well controlled on antiseizure drugs. However, approximately one-third will continue to have seizures despite optimized medical management. The primary aim of this article is to explore the long-term management of chronic epilepsy, and to address some of the particular needs of patients with chronic epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca O'Dwyer
- Department of Neurological Science, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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Anand P, Al-Faraj A, Sader E, Dashkoff J, Abdennadher M, Murugesan R, Cervantes-Arslanian AM, Daneshmand A. Seizure as the presenting symptom of COVID-19: A retrospective case series. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 112:107335. [PMID: 32739397 PMCID: PMC7373049 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly become a global pandemic, with over 1.8 million confirmed cases worldwide to date. Preliminary reports suggest that the disease may present in diverse ways, including with neurological symptoms, but few published reports in the literature describe seizures in patients with COVID-19. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to characterize the risk factors, clinical features, and outcomes of seizures in patients with COVID-19. METHODS This is a retrospective case series. Cases were identified through a review of admissions and consultations to the neurology and neurocritical care services between April 1, 2020 and May 15, 2020. SETTING The study setting was in a tertiary care, safety-net hospital in Boston, MA. PARTICIPANTS Patients presenting with seizures and COVID-19 during the study period were included in the study. RESULTS Seven patients met inclusion criteria (5 females, 71%). Patients ranged in age from 37 to 88 years (median: 75 years). Three patients had a prior history of well-controlled epilepsy (43%), while 4 patients had new-onset seizures, including 2 patients with prior history of remote stroke. Three patients had no preceding symptoms of COVID-19 prior to presentation (57%), and in all cases, seizures were the symptom that prompted presentation to the emergency department, regardless of prior symptoms of COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS Provoking factors for seizures in patients with COVID-19 may include metabolic factors, systemic illness, and possibly direct effects of the virus. In endemic areas with community spread of COVID-19, clinicians should be vigilant for the infection in patients who present with seizures, which may precede respiratory symptoms or prompt presentation to medical care. Early testing, isolation, and contact tracking of these patients can prevent further transmission of the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pria Anand
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Abrar Al-Faraj
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Elie Sader
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Jonathan Dashkoff
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Myriam Abdennadher
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Rubachandran Murugesan
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Neurosurgery, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Anna M. Cervantes-Arslanian
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America,Department of Neurosurgery, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America,Deparment of Medicine, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Ali Daneshmand
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Neurosurgery, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America.
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Nonadherence to Antiepileptic Medications and Its Determinants among Epileptic Patients at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Gondar, Ethiopia, 2019: An Institutional-Based Cross-Sectional Study. Neurol Res Int 2020; 2020:8886828. [PMID: 33194230 PMCID: PMC7641705 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8886828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Nonadherence to antiepileptic medication is the extent of a patient's passive failure to follow the prescribed therapeutic regimen. The prevalence and impact of nonadherence to antiepileptic medication are high globally. The main purpose of this study was to assess nonadherence to antiepileptic medications and its associated factors among epileptic patients at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, Gondar, Ethiopia, 2019. Methods An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 365 epileptic patients at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital, who were selected by a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected by face to face interviews using a structured pretested questionnaire. Data were entered into EPI Info version 7 and then exported to SPSS version 22 for analysis. The data were described by descriptive statistics. Binary logistic regression analysis was used as a model, and variables with a p value of less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant with nonadherence to antiepileptic medications. Results A total of 356 epileptic patients participated in the study yielding a response rate of 97.5%. The overall prevalence of nonadherence to antiepileptic medications among epileptic patients attending at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital was 38.5% (95% CI: 33.1–43.8). Divorced and/or widowed marital status (AOR: 3.38 (95% CI: 1.54, 7.44)), treatment duration of 3–5 years (AOR = 3.58 (95% CI: 1.38, 9.29)), treatment duration of 5 and above years (AOR: 3.49 (95% CI: 1.53, 7.95)), comorbidity (AOR: 2.42 (95% CI: 1.08, 5.43)), side effects of antiepileptic medications (AOR: 3.36 (95% CI: 1.67, 6.74)), absence of health information (AOR: 1.98 (95% CI: 1.11, 3.52)), epilepsy-related stigma (AOR: 2.81 (95% CI: 1.57, 5.02)), and negative attitude towards antiepileptic medications (AOR: 2.46 (95% CI: 1.36, 4.45)) were significantly associated with nonadherence to antiepileptic medications. Conclusions Prevalence of nonadherence to antiepileptic medications among epileptic patients at the University of Gondar Referral Hospital was found to be high. Hence, giving health information about epilepsy and its management will help to reduce antiepileptic medications' nonadherence.
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Hu M, Zhang C, Xiao X, Guo J, Sun H. Effect of intensive self-management education on seizure frequency and quality of life in epilepsy patients with prodromes or precipitating factors. Seizure 2020; 78:38-42. [PMID: 32155576 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the impact of an intensive self-management education strategy on seizure frequency and quality of life in patients with epileptic seizures with prodromes or precipitating factors. The intensive self-management education included monthly education sessions on prodromes and precipitating factors aiming to help patients to adopt self-management strategies. METHODS Adult patients with epilepsy (PWE) able to identify prodromes or precipitating factors of their seizures were randomly assigned to an intensive education group (IEG) (n = 45) or a regular education group(REG) (n = 47). All patients received a single face-to-face self-management education session at the time of enrollment. Both groups of patients received monthly telephone follow-up for 1 year. PWE in the IEG received intensive education during each follow-up call. Primary outcomes were seizure frequency, quality of life(Quality of life in epilepsy-31 inventory scores, QOLIE 31), and drug adherence(Morisky medication adherence scale,MMAS). RESULTS At the end of the 1-year follow-up period, seizure frequency in the IEG was significantly lower than at baseline (p < 0.001), but not in the REG(p = 0.085). Quality of life had improved significantly in the IEG (p < 0.001), but not in the REG (p = 0.073). Drug adherence was better in the IEG than in the REG (p = 0.003), and there were fewer accidental injuries in the IEG than the REG (p = 0.031). CONCLUSIONS In PWE aware of seizure prodromes or precipitating factors, intensive self-management education may reduce seizure frequency, improve quality of life, increase adherence with antiepileptic medication and reduce accidental injuries caused by seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiling Hu
- Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, China
| | - Chenqi Zhang
- Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Xiao
- Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, China
| | - Jiang Guo
- Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, China
| | - Hongbin Sun
- Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610072, China.
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Kaddumukasa M, Mwesiga E, Sewankambo N, Blixen C, Lhatoo S, Sajatovic M, Katabira E. Knowledge and attitudes about sudden death in epilepsy among people living with epilepsy and their healthcare providers in Mulago Hospital, Uganda: A cross‐sectional study. Epilepsia Open 2020; 5:80-85. [PMID: 32140646 PMCID: PMC7049805 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of the study was to assess level of knowledge and attitudes of SUDEP among people living with epilepsy (PLWE) and healthcare workers providing epilepsy care in Uganda. Methods This cross‐sectional study of 48 PLWE and 19 epilepsy care providers used a tailored questionnaire to evaluate epilepsy and SUDEP knowledge, frequency of SUDEP discussion, reasons for not discussing SUDEP, timing of SUDEP discussions, and perceived patient reactions to being provided information on SUDEP. Results Median PLWE sample age was 25 (IQR; 19‐34) years, 10 (20.8%) were male, median age of onset of epilepsy 12 (IQR; 6‐18) years. Half of the PLWE reported that they had never heard of SUDEP. Most PLWE desired detailed information regarding SUDEP and preferred this information during the subsequent visits. Healthcare provider sample mean age was 35.7 (22.8) years, 12 (63.2%) were male and composed of 4 physicians (21.1%). Only 15% (3/20) of providers discussed SUDEP with their patients while 85% (17/20) have never discussed it. The main reasons for not discussing SUDEP were not knowing enough about SUDEP (89.5%) and no adequate support network available (30%). Providers that discussed SUDEP (100%) reported that negative reactions were the most common patient response. Significance In this Ugandan sample, most PLWE are not aware of SUDEP and epilepsy care providers rarely discuss SUDEP with their patients or patient caregivers. Negative reactions to SUDEP discussions are common but not universal. There is an urgent need for epilepsy educational programs in clinics and targeted communities addressing SUDEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Kaddumukasa
- Department of Medicine College of Health Sciences Makerere University Kampala Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Mwesiga
- Department of Psychiatry College of Health Sciences Makerere University Kampala Uganda
| | - Nelson Sewankambo
- Department of Medicine College of Health Sciences Makerere University Kampala Uganda
| | - Carol Blixen
- Neurological and Behavioral Outcome Center Case Medical Center University Hospitals Cleveland OH USA
| | - Samden Lhatoo
- Department of Neurology Health Science Center at Houston The University of Texas Houston TX USA
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Neurological and Behavioral Outcome Center Case Medical Center University Hospitals Cleveland OH USA
| | - Elly Katabira
- Department of Medicine College of Health Sciences Makerere University Kampala Uganda
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Cramer JA, Yan T, Tieu R, Knoth RL, Fincher C, Malhotra M, Choi J. Risk of hospitalization among patients with epilepsy using long versus short half-life adjunctive antiepileptic drugs. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 102:106634. [PMID: 31783318 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) remain the primary treatment for epilepsy, many patients continue to have seizures. Uncontrolled seizures may be related to AED half-life, since short half-life (SHL) AEDs require more frequent dosing compared with the simplified regimens of long half-life (LHL) AEDs. Long half-life AEDs may also improve seizure control by extending missed dose forgiveness periods. The value of LHL AEDs may be assessed as reduced healthcare utilization. The study's objective was to examine the impact of adding an LHL versus SHL adjunctive AED on the risk of hospitalizations in patients with uncontrolled epilepsy. METHODS This was a retrospective, longitudinal cohort study using the Symphony Health Solution Patient Integrated Dataverse. Patients ≥12 years old with uncontrolled epilepsy (≥2 medical claims ≥30 days apart) were identified during a study period (8/1/2012-7/31/2017). Patients were selected if they were subsequently initiated an adjunctive AED (excluding modified release formulations), and the prescription date served as the index. Patients were stratified into two mutually exclusive cohorts based on the index AED half-life (≤20 versus >20 h). Poisson regressions with robust error variances were performed for the relative risks (RRs) of all-cause, epilepsy-related, and injury-related hospitalizations. RESULTS A total of 4984 patients were identified (2705 in the LHL and 2279 in the SHL cohort). Compared with those in the SHL cohort, patients in the LHL cohort were significantly younger [mean (SD, years): 43.9 (18.5) versus 49.2 (17.2), p < 0.001] and were less comorbid [mean (SD) of Charlson comorbidity index: 1.2 (1.8) versus 1.8 (2.2), p < 0.001]. In the one-year postindex date, adjusting for group differences, the risks of both all-cause and epilepsy-related hospitalizations were significantly lower in the LHL cohort than in the SHL cohort [all-cause: 0.84 (95% CI: 0.76-0.93), p = 0.0006; epilepsy-related: 0.83 (0.73-0.94), p = 0.0046].Injury-related hospitalizations did not differ between LHL and SHL cohorts. CONCLUSION In patients with uncontrolled epilepsy who were initiated on an adjunctive AED, the choice of an LHL versus SHL was associated with significantly lower risks of all-cause and epilepsy-related hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tingjian Yan
- Partnership for Health Analytic Research, LLC, 280 S. Beverly Dr., Ste. 404, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, USA
| | - Ryan Tieu
- Partnership for Health Analytic Research, LLC, 280 S. Beverly Dr., Ste. 404, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, USA
| | | | | | - Manoj Malhotra
- Eisai Inc., 100 Tice Blvd., Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677, USA
| | - Jiyoon Choi
- Eisai Inc., 100 Tice Blvd., Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article reviews the management of patients with medically responsive epilepsy, including discussion of factors that may lead to transient breakthrough seizures and patient and physician strategies to maintain freedom from seizures. RECENT FINDINGS Imperfect adherence, unanticipated changes in ongoing medical therapy, inadvertent use of proconvulsants or concurrent medications that alter epilepsy medication kinetics, and a variety of seizure precipitants such as stress or sleep deprivation may alter long-term seizure control. SUMMARY The majority of patients with epilepsy are medically responsive. Many potential factors may lead to breakthrough seizures in these patients. Identification of these factors, patient education, and use of self-management techniques including mindfulness therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy may play a role in protecting patients with epilepsy against breakthrough seizures.
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Menon S, Siewe Fodjo JN, Weckhuysen S, Bhwana D, Njamnshi AK, Dekker M, Colebunders R. Women with epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa: A review of the reproductive health challenges and perspectives for management. Seizure 2019; 71:312-317. [PMID: 31521949 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is one of the commonest neurological conditions affecting women of reproductive age. Epilepsy management during pregnancy is a clinical conundrum, requiring a balance between seizure control and risk minimization for the women with epilepsy (WWE) as well as for their fetuses. The objective of this comprehensive review is to explore the reproductive health challenges of WWE in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and ways to address them. METHOD Relevant documentation published until June 2019 were retrieved via literature searches performed in PubMed and Google Scholar, as well as a manual search to identify grey literature. RESULTS WWE in SSA are generally more stigmatized and sexually exploited than women without epilepsy. Contraception use among WWE was reported only in Senegal (51%) and Kenya (14.7%). Only two prospective studies (one in Senegal and one in Nigeria) investigated pregnancy outcomes for a total of 97 WWE. The prevalence of convulsive epilepsy in pregnancy was estimated at 3.33 per 1000. Among pregnant WWE treated with first line anti-epileptic drugs, 16.2% had miscarriages, 41.9% premature births, and 4.1% had babies with malformations. Carbamazepine, which is frequently prescribed to pregnant WWE in SSA, still entails a 2.1-fold increased risk of congenital malformation. No reports were found concerning pre-conceptual counseling and post-natal outcomes in WWE in SSA. CONCLUSION Our review underscores the need for contextualized evidence-based clinical guidelines and a collaborative approach to treat WWE in SSA. High risks of congenital malformations and drug interactions with first line AED warrant the provision of safer second line alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Menon
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Sarah Weckhuysen
- Department of Neurology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Neurogenetics group, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dan Bhwana
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Alfred K Njamnshi
- Neurology Department, Yaoundé Central Hospital, Yaoundé, Cameroon; Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon; Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN), Yaoundé, Cameroon; Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marieke Dekker
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
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Mroueh L, Boumediene F, Jost J, Ratsimbazafy V, Preux PM, Salameh P, Al-Hajje A. Self-reported attitudes about medication in Lebanese people with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 98:80-87. [PMID: 31301454 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a common worldwide neurological disorder. For people with epilepsy (PWE), adherence and attitudes towards medication is a crucial step to improve efficacy of prescribed treatment and to prevent seizures. OBJECTIVES The first aim of this study was to evaluate attitudes towards antiepileptic medications in Lebanese population. Secondary aims were to assess factors affecting attitudes and associated with epilepsy control. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in outpatient neurology clinics located in Beirut-Lebanon. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Self-report of medication taking behaviors were assessed using the abbreviated (4 items) Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4). Epilepsy was considered as controlled if the patient had no seizures in the last 6 months. RESULTS Among 250 PWE recruited in this study, male-to-female ratio was 0.87 (116/134), and 50.8% were married. Mean duration of epilepsy was 13.7 ± 12.8 years. Valproate was the most common antiepileptic drug (AED) used followed by levetiracetam and carbamazepine. About 60.8% of the population presented partial epilepsy. Uncontrolled epilepsy was present in more than half of participants (55.2%), with only 32.4% had positive attitudes to their medication. Positive attitudes towards antiepileptic increased in people who found that their treatment was efficacious (odds ratio (OR) = 4.9; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-20.0; p = 0.03), who had controlled epilepsy (OR = 3.4; 95%CI 1.6-7.1; p = 0.001), and who were diagnosed as PWE between the age of 12-20 years (OR = 3.1; 95%CI 1.1-8.4; p = 0.03). Oppositely, these attitudes decreased in participants who felt their treatment as an economic burden (OR = 0.2; 95%CI 0.1-0.4; p ≪ 0.001), and in people with depression (OR = 0.4; 95%CI 0.2-0.9; p = 0.04). Controlled epilepsy was higher in people who contacted a neurologist if seizure occurred, in people with positive attitudes, and after a long duration of disease, but it decreased if patient did not follow neurologist's instructions in fasting period. CONCLUSIONS Lebanese PWE were less likely to have positive attitudes towards medication, which may lead to poor epilepsy control. Depression and economic burden were the major factors that decreased these attitudes. Identifying factors affecting attitudes to medication and leading to controlled epilepsy may help clinicians to elaborate educational programs to optimize medication adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Mroueh
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France; Univ. Limoges, UMR 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France; Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Farid Boumediene
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France; Univ. Limoges, UMR 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Jeremy Jost
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France; Univ. Limoges, UMR 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France; CHU Limoges, Department of Pharmacy, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Voa Ratsimbazafy
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France; Univ. Limoges, UMR 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France; CHU Limoges, Department of Pharmacy, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France; Univ. Limoges, UMR 1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Pascale Salameh
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Amal Al-Hajje
- Clinical and Epidemiological Research Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadath, Beirut, Lebanon
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Elsayed MA, El-Sayed NM, Badi S, Ahmed MH. Factors affecting adherence to antiepileptic medications among Sudanese individuals with epilepsy: A cross-sectional survey. J Family Med Prim Care 2019; 8:2312-2317. [PMID: 31463248 PMCID: PMC6691456 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_405_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Nonadherence to medication is widespread in epilepsy and other chronic diseases. Studies reporting adherence to antiepileptic medications are very limited in African countries. Adherence reports from low income African countries are few in contrast to multiple studies from high-income countries. Therefore, the aim of this study is to measure the level of adherence to antiepileptic medication in Sudanese population. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study of 96 individuals with epilepsy recruited from neurology outpatient clinics in three tertiary centers in Sudan. Data were collected by using a structured questionnaire containing Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-4 (MMAS-4) and Belief about Medication Questionnaire and analyzed by statistical package of social sciences. Results: About 35% of patients were estimated to be nonadherent. Most of the patients (93%) acknowledged their need for antiepileptic drugs. However, 35% had high concern score. Adherence is affected by attitude toward antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and presence of side effects to AEDs. The relation between side effects and adherence was significant (P value 0.000). Furthermore, there was a statistically insignificant relation between the number of drugs used and adherence (P value 0.002). There was a significant relation between adherence, necessity mean score, concern mean score, and necessity concern differential P value 0.000 for all. Conclusion: Nonadherence to antiepileptic medication was reported in almost in one third of individuals in this cohort. There were statistically significant associations between nonadherence and both side effects and number of medications used in the treatment of epilepsy. Therefore, family physician should always check compliance with antiepileptic medication. Patient's education about adherence to medication through family physician may in part decrease the recurrence of epileptic seizures. Further research is needed to explore ways to increase adherence with AEDs in a low resource country like Sudan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muaz A Elsayed
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Omdurman Islamic University, Omdurman Teaching Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Safaa Badi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Omdurman Islamic University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Mohamed H Ahmed
- Department of Medicine and HIV Metabolic Clinic, Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Eagelstone, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, UK
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Hughes DM, Bonnett LJ, Marson AG, García-Fiñana M. Identifying patients who will not reachieve remission after breakthrough seizures. Epilepsia 2019; 60:774-782. [PMID: 30900756 PMCID: PMC6487810 DOI: 10.1111/epi.14697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective We aim to identify people with epilepsy who are unlikely to reachieve a 12‐month remission within 2 years after experiencing a breakthrough seizure following an initial 12‐month remission. Methods We apply a novel longitudinal discriminant approach to data from the Standard and New Antiepileptic Drugs study to dynamically predict the risk of a patient not achieving a second remission after a breakthrough seizure by combining both baseline covariates (collected at the time of breakthrough seizure) and follow‐up data. Results The model classifies 83% of patients. Of these, 73% of patients (95% confidence interval [CI] = 58%‐88%) who did not achieve a second remission were correctly identified (sensitivity), and 84% of patients (95% CI = 69%‐96%) who achieved a second remission were correctly identified (specificity). The area under the curve from our model was 87% (95% CI = 80%‐94%). Patients who did not achieve a second remission were correctly identified on average after 10 months of observation postbreakthrough. Occurrence of seizures after breakthrough and the number of seizures experienced were the most informative longitudinal variables. These longitudinal profiles were influenced by the following baseline covariates: age at breakthrough seizure, presence of neurological insult, and number of antiepileptic drugs required to achieve first remission. Significance Using longitudinal data gathered during patient follow‐up allows more accurate predictions than using baseline covariates in a standard Cox model. The model developed in this paper is a useful first step in developing a tool for identifying patients who develop drug resistance after an initial remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Laura J Bonnett
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, members of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - Marta García-Fiñana
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Hotterbeekx A, Namale Ssonko V, Oyet W, Lakwo T, Idro R. Neurological manifestations in Onchocerca volvulus infection: A review. Brain Res Bull 2018; 145:39-44. [PMID: 30458251 PMCID: PMC6382410 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Human onchocerciasis, caused by infection by the filarial nematode Onchocerca volvulus, is a major neglected public health problem that affects millions of people in the endemic regions of sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. Onchocerciasis is known to be associated with skin and eye disease and more recently, neurological features have been recognized as a major manifestation. Especially the latter poses a severe burden on affected individuals and their families. Although definite studies are awaited, preliminary evidence suggests that neurological disease may include the nodding syndrome, Nakalanga syndrome and epilepsy but to date, the exact pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. Currently, the only way to prevent Onchocera volvulus associated disease is through interventions that target the elimination of onchocerciasis through community distribution of ivermectin and larviciding the breeding sites of the Similium or blackfly vector in rivers. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, potential pathological mechanisms as well as prevention and treatment strategies of onchocerciasis, focusing on the neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Hotterbeekx
- University of Antwerp, Global Health Institute, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | | | - Thomson Lakwo
- Ministry of Health, Division of Vector Control, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Richard Idro
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda; Centre for Tropical Neuroscience, Kampala, Uganda; University of Oxford, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK.
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Margolis SA, Gonzalez JS, Spindell J, Mohamadpour M, Grant AC, Nakhutina L. Assessment of medication management capacity in a predominantly African American and Caribbean American sample of adults with intractable epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 88:308-314. [PMID: 30449327 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suboptimal or partial adherence to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is an avoidable cause of seizures and deleterious outcomes in epilepsy. As self-rated adherence may be unreliable, suboptimal adherence may go undetected. This study assessed generalizability of a performance-based measure of medication management to patients with intractable epilepsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Participants were 50 adults (age = 42 ± 14 years, 60% female, 82% Black, 20% Hispanic/Latino) with ≥2 seizures in the preceding 6 months. Antiepileptic drug adherence was electronically monitored for one month via Medication Event Monitoring Systems (MEMS) and self-rated (1 = very poor to 6 = excellent). The Medication Management Ability Assessment (MMAA) was administered at follow-up and scored by raters blind to adherence results. Spearman correlations and Poisson regressions assessed their associations. RESULTS On average, participants self-reported good-to-very good adherence. According to MEMS, participants took AEDs as prescribed 73% of the time; most participants (58%) missed ≥3 doses. The MMAA demonstrated strong internal consistency (Kuder-Richardson 20 = 0.81) and was associated with MEMS: percentage of days doses were taken correctly (rs = 0.29, p = 0.04) and frequency of missed doses (rs = -0.31, p = 0.03). The MMAA was not associated with self-rated adherence. Poisson regressions showed that self-ratings and MMAA performance accounted for unique variance in frequency of missed AED doses. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide evidence of the MMAA's criterion validity as a measure of capacity to manage AEDs. It may prove useful in cases where suboptimal adherence is suspected but unreported by patients. Its lack of significant association with self-rated adherence is consistent with prior reports; however, future studies should replicate these findings with larger samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth A Margolis
- The Miriam Hospital, 164 Summit Ave., Providence, RI 02904, USA; Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St., Providence, RI 02903, USA; Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, 222 Richmond St., Providence, RI 02903, USA.
| | - Jeffrey S Gonzalez
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, 1165 Morris Park Ave., Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University, 1300 Morris Park Ave., Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Jessica Spindell
- Bridgewater State University, 131 Summer St., Bridgewater, MA 02324, USA
| | | | - Arthur C Grant
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
| | - Luba Nakhutina
- SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA
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Frequency of seizure attack and associated factors among patients with epilepsy at University of Gondar Referral Hospital: a cross-sectional study, Gondar, North West Ethiopia, 2017. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:652. [PMID: 30189892 PMCID: PMC6127944 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3761-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective About three-fourth of adults with new-onset epilepsy become seizure-free with current anti-epileptic drugs, but around one-fourth of the patients continue to experience seizure which increases the risk of accident, disability, death and treatment side effects. Therefore, this study aimed to address the gap in determining the magnitude of the number of seizure attacks and identify the factors that provoke a repeated seizure in a patient with epilepsy. Results A total of 166(40.68%) study participants were experienced seizure attacks with a minimum of one and a maximum of seventeen times attacks. Perceived exposure to noise (adjusted incidence risk ratio (AIRR) = 1.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.46, 2.49]), light (AIRR = 1.48, 95% CI [1.09, 2.00]), head injury (AIRR = 1.71, 95% CI [1.14, 2.57]) and sleep deprivations (AIRR = 1.41, 95% CI [1.02, 1.94]) were associated with increased incidence of seizure, while adherence adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 18.18, 95% CI [3.49, 94.63]), being in middle wealth index (AOR = 3.52, 95% CI [1.14, 11.02]) and being in rich wealth index (AOR = 4.05, 95% CI [1.54, 10.69]) were associated with inflation of zero count.
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Bonnett LJ, Powell GA, Tudur Smith C, Marson AG. Breakthrough seizures-Further analysis of the Standard versus New Antiepileptic Drugs (SANAD) study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0190035. [PMID: 29267375 PMCID: PMC5739445 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To develop prognostic models for risk of a breakthrough seizure, risk of seizure recurrence after a breakthrough seizure, and likelihood of achieving 12-month remission following a breakthrough seizure. A breakthrough seizure is one that occurs following at least 12 months remission whilst on treatment. Methods We analysed data from the SANAD study. This long-term randomised trial compared treatments for participants with newly diagnosed epilepsy. Multivariable Cox models investigated how clinical factors affect the probability of each outcome. Best fitting multivariable models were produced with variable reduction by Akaike’s Information Criterion. Risks associated with combinations of risk factors were calculated from each multivariable model. Results Significant factors in the multivariable model for risk of a breakthrough seizure following 12-month remission were number of tonic-clonic seizures by achievement of 12-month remission, time taken to achieve 12-month remission, and neurological insult. Significant factors in the model for risk of seizure recurrence following a breakthrough seizure were total number of drugs attempted to achieve 12-month remission, time to achieve 12-month remission prior to breakthrough seizure, and breakthrough seizure treatment decision. Significant factors in the model for likelihood of achieving 12-month remission after a breakthrough seizure were gender, age at breakthrough seizure, time to achieve 12-month remission prior to breakthrough, and breakthrough seizure treatment decision. Conclusions This is the first analysis to consider risk of a breakthrough seizure and subsequent outcomes. The described models can be used to identify people most likely to have a breakthrough seizure, a seizure recurrence following a breakthrough seizure, and to achieve 12-month remission following a breakthrough seizure. The results suggest that focussing on achieving 12-month remission swiftly represents the best therapeutic aim to reduce the risk of a breakthrough seizure and subsequent negative outcomes. This will aid individual patient risk stratification and the design of future epilepsy trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J. Bonnett
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Graham A. Powell
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Catrin Tudur Smith
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony G. Marson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
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Bonnett LJ, Powell GA, Tudur Smith C, Marson AG. Risk of a seizure recurrence after a breakthrough seizure and the implications for driving: further analysis of the standard versus new antiepileptic drugs (SANAD) randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e015868. [PMID: 28698335 PMCID: PMC5726069 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-015868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A breakthrough seizure is one occurring after at least 12 months seizure freedom while on treatment. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) allows an individual to return to driving once they have been seizure free for 12 months following a breakthrough seizure. This is based on the assumption that the risk of a further seizure in the next 12 months has dropped <20%. This analysis considers whether the prescribed 1 year off driving following a breakthrough seizure is sufficient for this and stratifies risk according to clinical characteristics. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The multicentre UK-based Standard versus New Antiepileptic Drugs (SANAD) study was a randomised controlled trial assessing standard and new antiepileptic drugs for patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy. For participants aged at least 16 with a breakthrough seizure, data have been analysed to estimate the annual seizure recurrence risk following a period of 6, 9 and 12 months seizure freedom. Regression modelling was used to investigate how antiepileptic drug treatment and a number of clinical factors influence the risk of seizure recurrence. RESULTS At 12 months following a breakthrough seizure, the overall unadjusted risk of a recurrence over the next 12 months is lower than 20%, risk 17% (95% CI 15% to 19%). However, some patient subgroups have been identified which have an annual recurrence risk significantly greater than 20% after an initial 12-month seizure-free period following a breakthrough seizure. CONCLUSIONS This reanalysis of SANAD provides estimates of seizure recurrence risks following a breakthrough seizure that will inform policy and guidance about regaining an ordinary driving licence. Further guidance is needed as to how such data should be used. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER SANAD is registered with the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register ISRCTN38354748.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Bonnett
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - G A Powell
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Clinical Sciences Centre, Liverpool, UK
| | - C Tudur Smith
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - AG Marson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Clinical Sciences Centre, Liverpool, UK
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Malek N, Heath CA, Greene J. A review of medication adherence in people with epilepsy. Acta Neurol Scand 2017; 135:507-515. [PMID: 27781263 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
People with epilepsy (PWE) have a higher risk of mortality in comparison with the general population. This in part reflects intrinsic factors or associated comorbidities, but poor adherence to anti-epileptic drugs (AED) has also been shown to contribute to increased risk of death and increased utilization of unscheduled care. The aim of this review was to determine the prevalence of non-adherence to AED in PWE, evaluate whether specific clinical and demographic features can allow clinicians to identify those at highest risk and identify the methods and techniques that can be used to improve adherence in clinical settings. We identified relevant studies for the prevalence of medication non-adherence in PWE by searching MEDLINE (1946-7 Dec 2015), EMBASE (1947-7 Dec 2015) and Cochrane Library (1946-7 Dec 2015) as per predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. We included 17 research studies from our review of the medical literature to determine the prevalence of medication non-adherence in epilepsy. The prevalence of significant medication non-adherence in epilepsy has been reported to vary between 26% and 79%. This variation partly reflects the differences in defining what clinically significant medication adherence is, the methods used to estimate the scale of the problem and the underlying population heterogeneity. A number of clinical and demographic features have been associated with poor adherence allowing clinicians to identify those at greatest risk. Educating patients and their carers about the risks associated with poor adherence, certain behavioural interventions and simplifying their drug regimens have been shown to improve adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Malek
- Department of Neurology; Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust; Ipswich IP4 5PD, UK
| | - C. A. Heath
- Dept. of Neurology; Institute of Neurosciences; Queen Elizabeth University Hospital; Glasgow UK
| | - J. Greene
- Dept. of Neurology; Institute of Neurosciences; Queen Elizabeth University Hospital; Glasgow UK
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Watila MM, Keezer MR, Angwafor SA, Winkler AS, Sander JW. Health service provision for people with epilepsy in sub-Saharan Africa: A situational review. Epilepsy Behav 2017; 70:24-32. [PMID: 28410462 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where many people with the condition receive no treatment. Health-care services for epilepsy in this region have not been comprehensively assessed. We examined key features of epilepsy health services provided in SSA. METHODOLOGY This was a scoping review conducted using pre-specified protocols. We implemented an electronic search strategy to identify relevant citations using PUBMED, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), African Index Medicus (AIM), Open Grey, Cochrane database, and Google Scholar. Articles eligible for full-text review were screened and data of interest were reported. RESULT The search identified 81 eligible articles, forty-nine from East Africa, 19 from West Africa, 8 from South Africa, and 5 from Central Africa. A variety of care services were identified, with reporting of rural epilepsy care in 75% of retrieved articles mainly from East and South African countries. The majority of the rural epilepsy clinics were health worker- or nurse-led, reporting good seizure control in about two-thirds of patients using phenobarbital as the most commonly prescribed antiepileptic drug. Funding for rural epilepsy care came mainly from external donor agencies. CONCLUSION We attempted to provide a 'snapshot' of epilepsy care services in SSA. The successes achieved in some of the centers are due to the use of existing primary health-care systems and employing non-physician health-care personnel. The true picture of epilepsy care coverage is not apparent due to the lack of data and proper health system structure in most parts of SSA. As more individuals begin to receive care, the long-term funding for epilepsy care in African countries will depend on the commitment of their respective governments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musa M Watila
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, PMB 1414, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, SL9 0RJ, UK
| | - Mark R Keezer
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, SL9 0RJ, UK; Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Hôpital Notre-Dame, Montréal, Québec H2L 4M1, Canada; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Achterweg 5, 2103 SW Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Samuel A Angwafor
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, SL9 0RJ, UK
| | - Andrea S Winkler
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, 0450 Oslo, Norway; Department of Neurology, Technical University Munich, Ismaninger Strasse 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Josemir W Sander
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London WC1N 3BG, UK; Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy, Chalfont St Peter, SL9 0RJ, UK; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Achterweg 5, 2103 SW Heemstede, Netherlands.
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Antiepileptic Drug Nonadherence and Its Predictors among People with Epilepsy. Behav Neurol 2016; 2016:3189108. [PMID: 28053370 PMCID: PMC5178347 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3189108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Antiepileptic drugs are effective in the treatment of epilepsy to the extent that about 70% of people with epilepsy can be seizure-free, but poor adherence to medication is major problem to sustained remission and functional restoration. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of antiepileptic drug nonadherence. Methods. Cross-sectional study was conducted on 450 individuals who were selected by systematic random sampling method. Antiepileptic drug nonadherence was measured by Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) and logistic regression was used to look for significant associations. Result. The prevalence of AEDs nonadherence was 37.8%. Being on treatment for 6 years and above [AOR = 3.47, 95% CI: 1.88, 6.40], payment for AEDs [AOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.73, 4.42], lack of health information [AOR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.41,3.43], poor social support [AOR = 1.88, 95%, CI: 1.01, 3.50], perceived stigma [AOR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.45, 3.56], and experience side effect [AOR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.06, 2.72] were significantly associated with antiepileptic drug nonadherence. Conclusion. More than one-third of people with epilepsy were not compliant with their AEDs. Giving health information about epilepsy and its management and consequent reduction in stigma will help for medication adherence.
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Kariuki SM, Chengo E, Ibinda F, Odhiambo R, Etyang A, Ngugi AK, Newton CRJC. Burden, causes, and outcomes of people with epilepsy admitted to a rural hospital in Kenya. Epilepsia 2015; 56:577-84. [PMID: 25689574 PMCID: PMC4813756 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE People with epilepsy (PWE) develop complications and comorbidities often requiring admission to hospital, which adds to the burden on the health system, particularly in low-income countries. We determined the incidence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), risk factors, and causes of admissions in PWE. We also examined the predictors of prolonged hospital stay and death using data from linked clinical and demographic surveillance system. METHODS We studied children and adults admitted to a Kenyan rural hospital, between January 2003 and December 2011, with a diagnosis of epilepsy. Poisson regression was used to compute incidence and rate ratios, logistic regression to determine associated factors, and the DALY package of the R-statistical software to calculate years lived with disability (YLD) and years of life lost (YLL). RESULTS The overall incidence of admissions was 45.6/100,000 person-years of observation (PYO) (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 43.0-48.7) and decreased with age (p < 0.001). The overall DALYs were 3.1/1,000 (95% CI, 1.8-4.7) PYO and comprised 55% of YLD. Factors associated with hospitalization were use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) (odds ratio [OR] 5.36, 95% CI 2.64-10.90), previous admission (OR 11.65, 95% CI 2.65-51.17), acute encephalopathy (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.07-4.22), and adverse perinatal events (OR 2.87, 95% CI 1.06-7.74). Important causes of admission were epilepsy-related complications: convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) (38%), and postictal coma (12%). Age was independently associated with prolonged hospital stay (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.04) and mortality (OR, 1.07, 95% CI 1.04-1.10). SIGNIFICANCE Epilepsy is associated with significant number of admissions to hospital, considerable duration of admission, and mortality. Improved supply of AEDs in the community, early initiation of treatment, and adherence would reduce hospitalization of PWE and thus the burden of epilepsy on the health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Symon M Kariuki
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya; Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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