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West syndrome: the Philippine experience.
A M Salonga1, M B Lukban, M H Ortiz
1Department of Pediatrics, University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila, Philippines. rms_md@pacific.net.ph
Brain & Development
|November 10, 2001
Summary
West syndrome (WS) in the Philippines is often symptomatic and challenging to treat, with limited access to ideal therapies like ACTH. Most patients experience poor neurodevelopmental outcomes despite available treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Epilepsy Research
- Clinical Epidemiology
Background:
- West syndrome (WS) is a severe form of epilepsy in infancy.
- Understanding the current status and management of WS in the Philippines is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current status of West syndrome in the Philippines.
- To analyze the etiologies, treatments, and outcomes of WS cases.
- To survey anticonvulsant usage among Filipino child neurologists.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 12 WS cases from 1997-1999 at two major referral hospitals.
- Questionnaire survey on anticonvulsant use among practicing child neurologists.
Main Results:
- WS accounted for 3.18% of epileptic children under 3. Etiologies were 33% idiopathic and 66% symptomatic.
- Phenobarbital was the most common first-line drug; however, only 3 of 12 patients became seizure-free with poor neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) was the preferred ideal drug, but its unavailability and cost limited its use.
Conclusions:
- Data from referral centers may not represent true national prevalence of WS.
- Limited access to preferred treatments like ACTH impacts seizure control and developmental outcomes.
- Further national statistics and accessible treatment options are needed for effective WS management in the Philippines.