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Behavioural and neuropsychological problems in refractory paediatric epilepsies

Marc J C Boel1

  • 1Rehabilitation and Epilepsy Unit, Reebergenlaan 4, B-2242 Pulderbos, Belgium. marc.boel@revapulderbos.be

European Journal of Paediatric Neurology : EJPN : Official Journal of the European Paediatric Neurology Society
|November 16, 2004
PubMed

Insights

This study investigated behavioral issues in children with refractory epilepsy. Pervasive disorders and attentional problems were common, with mental decline observed in 15% of patients.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Child Psychology

Background:

  • Refractory epilepsy in children presents complex challenges.
  • Understanding associated behavioral and neuropsychological profiles is crucial for effective management.
  • Previous research has indicated links between epilepsy types and specific behavioral issues.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore correlations between different epilepsy categories and behavioral profiles in children.
  • To identify the most frequent neuro-behavioral correlates in pediatric epilepsy.
  • To investigate the prevalence of mental decline associated with the epileptic process.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 573 children with refractory epilepsy admitted to a residential unit (1984-2000).
  • Assessment of associated behavioral and neuropsychological profiles.
  • Categorization of epilepsy types and associated neuro-behavioral findings.

Main Results:

  • The most frequent neuro-behavioral correlates included pervasive disorders (8%), attentional problems (7.5%), loss of self-esteem (9%), and self-induction of seizures (7%).
  • Pervasive disorders were significantly more common in secondary generalized epilepsies.
  • Mental decline was observed in 15% of children, particularly those with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, West syndrome, severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy, and continuous spikes and slow waves during slow wave sleep.
  • Self-induction of seizures was more prevalent in females.

Conclusions:

  • Specific epilepsy types are associated with distinct behavioral and neuropsychological profiles in children.
  • Refractory epilepsy can lead to significant neuro-behavioral challenges, including pervasive disorders and mental decline.
  • Further research is warranted to develop targeted interventions for these comorbidities.

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