Self-perception of factors that precipitate or inhibit seizures in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy

To assess self-perception of factors that precipitate or inhibit seizures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME).

Thirty-six males and 39 females with JME and mean age of 25.8+/-8.7 years were analysed. All patients completed a standardized questionnaire to assess for the presence or absence of precipitant or inhibitory factors for their seizures in a face-to-face interview. These data were statistically analysed through logistic and linear regression models and Phi coefficient.

Ninety-two percent of the patients identified at least one precipitating factor (PF). In order of frequency the following PFs were recorded: stress (83%), sleep deprivation (77%), specific thoughts/mental concentration (23%), performance of hand activities and complex finger movements (20%), flashing lights and playing games (15%), speaking out in public (11%) and alcohol intake (11%), reading (7%), calculating and writing (5%), playing musical instruments (4%), drawing (3%), and specific types of music (1%). Menstrual cycle was the third most important PF in the women (33%). Although PFs were easily recognized, 77% of the patients stated that they were unable to avoid the occurrence of the seizures.

Structured questionnaire is useful in stimulating patients to self-report seizure precipitants. Patients with higher education and uncontrolled seizures identified them more easily. The presence of a significant number of uncommon PFs, such as mental and motor hand tasks, considered uncommon for other epileptic syndromes, suggests that the role of these factors may be under-recognized in JME.