Child-onset idiopathic seizures and specific learning disability: comorbidities in adults

In this study, neuropsychological test data and demographic information were collected from 267 adults participating in evaluations as part of their involvement with a Vocational Rehabilitation service. Specifically targeted in this research was an assessment of the comorbidity and character of specific learning disabilities (LD) among individuals with a history of idiopathic seizures. Most participants were found to have reduced general cognitive performance. Persons with seizures performed more like LD adults than a control group of adults with non-seizure-related physical disabilities. This was true for many in the seizure group even when no prior LD had been diagnosed. Specific LDs were found in roughly one-third of adults with seizures. An analysis of diagnostic accuracy was conducted revealing higher than expected rates of Type I and Type II errors for persons who had previously carried an LD diagnosis. Strengths and limitations of the study were discussed along with a particular focus on implications for practicing neuropsychologists in educational and vocational settings, and for other professionals who might be responsible for the care of adults with a history of idiopathic seizure disorders.