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Anxiety in children with epilepsy.
Jane Williams1, Chris Steel, Gregory B Sharp
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA. janewill@wfubmc.edu
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|December 31, 2003
Summary
Anxiety symptoms are common in children with epilepsy, affecting 23%. Comorbidities, ethnicity, and multiple medications are linked to higher anxiety levels in pediatric epilepsy patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychiatry
- Epileptology
Background:
- Affective disorders, including anxiety, are more prevalent in children with epilepsy compared to healthy peers.
- Understanding the specific occurrence and associated factors of anxiety in this population is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents diagnosed with epilepsy.
- To identify factors that are significantly associated with increased anxiety levels in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 101 children and adolescents (ages 6-16) with epilepsy participated in the study.
- The Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale (RCMAS) was administered to assess anxiety symptoms.
- Regression analysis was employed to determine factors associated with elevated anxiety.
Main Results:
- Mild to moderate anxiety symptoms were reported by 23% of the pediatric epilepsy patients.
- Significant factors associated with higher anxiety included comorbid learning or behavioral difficulties, ethnicity, and the use of polytherapy (multiple anti-epileptic drugs).
Conclusions:
- The findings highlight the importance of screening for affective symptoms, particularly anxiety, in children and adolescents with epilepsy.
- Early identification and intervention for anxiety are recommended to improve the overall well-being and management of pediatric epilepsy.