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Adult-onset idiopathic generalized epilepsy: clinical and behavioral features
S Cutting1, A Lauchheimer, W Barr
1Department of Neurology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
Epilepsia
|March 7, 2002
Summary
Adult-onset idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) presents in early adulthood and often has a good prognosis with treatment. Some patients may experience psychological disorders alongside epilepsy, potentially impacting seizure control.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epileptology
Background:
- Idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) typically begins in childhood or adolescence.
- Adult-onset IGE is less common and its characteristics are not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and define the clinical and behavioral features of adult-onset idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 313 IGE patients at NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center over 5 years.
- Inclusion criteria: adult onset (≥18 years) of IGE.
- Exclusion criteria: childhood/adolescent symptoms, head injury, or other epilepsy causes.
Main Results:
- 13.4% (42/313) of patients had adult-onset IGE, with an average age of onset in the early 20s.
- Adult myoclonic epilepsy (AME) and generalized tonic-clonic seizures on awakening (GTCS-A) were observed.
- Seventy-five percent of patients achieved good seizure control with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), and 90% were employed.
- One-third of patients had co-occurring mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety.
Conclusions:
- Adult-onset IGE is associated with a favorable prognosis and good seizure control with current AEDs.
- A potential link exists between psychological disorders, psychotropic medication, and seizure control in adult IGE patients.
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