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Hot water epilepsy occurring at temperature below the core temperature
Stéphane Auvin1, Marie-Dominique Lamblin, Florence Pandit
1Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Hospital, Lille, France. auvin@invivo.edu
Brain & Development
|December 27, 2005
Summary
This study details a rare case of water reflex epilepsy in a child, triggered by cold water on the scalp. Oxcarbazepine successfully controlled seizures and improved cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Epileptology
Background:
- Water reflex epilepsy is a rare form of reflex epilepsy.
- Seizures can be triggered by external stimuli, including temperature changes.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old girl presented with seizures triggered by cold water applied to the scalp or face.
- Ictal electroencephalogram (EEG) showed left-sided hypotonia and right fronto-temporal slow waves.
- Neuropsychological assessment revealed frontal lobe dysfunction.
Findings:
- The patient's epilepsy occurred at temperatures below core body temperature, suggesting a non-hyperthermic mechanism.
- Oxcarbazepine treatment led to seizure cessation and improved executive functions.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed no structural abnormalities.
Implications:
- This case challenges the typical understanding of hot-water epilepsy, suggesting cold-water triggers are possible.
- Further research is needed to explore the specific pathophysiological mechanisms of water-induced seizures.
- Temperature regulation may be a potential therapeutic strategy, warranting further investigation.