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Recurrent seizures and behavior problems in children with first recognized seizures: a prospective study
Joan K Austin1, David W Dunn, Helena M Caffrey
1Environments for Health, School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, 46202-5107, USA. joausti@iupui.edu
Epilepsia
|December 4, 2002
Summary
Recurrent seizures in children are linked to behavior problems early on. This suggests seizures may directly impact behavior or stem from a common underlying neurological cause.
Area of Science:
- Child Neurology
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatric Epilepsy
Background:
- Children with epilepsy frequently exhibit behavior problems.
- Understanding the relationship between seizure activity and behavior is crucial for comprehensive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively examine the association between seizures and behavior problems in children with new-onset seizures.
- To determine if recurrent seizures predict behavior issues in children.
Main Methods:
- 224 children (4-14 years) with new-onset seizures and 159 siblings (4-18 years) were studied.
- Caregiver behavior ratings (CBCL) were collected at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months.
- Repeated measures ANOVA analyzed changes in behavior scores, controlling for covariates.
Main Results:
- Children with recurrent seizures showed higher CBCL Total and Internalizing Behavior Problems scores compared to periods without recurrent seizures.
- Siblings had significantly lower behavior problem scores than children with recurrent seizures.
- Externalizing problems did not differ significantly across groups.
Conclusions:
- Recurrent seizures are significant early predictors of behavior problems in children.
- Potential explanations include shared underlying neurological disorders, direct behavioral disruption by seizures, or psychological responses to seizure activity.