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A case of malignant migrating partial seizures in infancy as a continuum of infantile epileptic encephalopathy

Eun Hye Lee1, Mi-Sun Yum, Min-Hee Jeong

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Brain & Development
|December 27, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Malignant migrating partial seizures in infancy (MMPSI) can evolve into West syndrome. This rare condition presents with early-onset, drug-resistant seizures and developmental delays, suggesting a continuum of infantile epileptic encephalopathy.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Epileptology
  • Developmental Neuroscience

Background:

  • Malignant migrating partial seizures in infancy (MMPSI) is a severe early-onset epileptic encephalopathy.
  • Characterized by continuous, multifocal seizures and poor neurodevelopmental outcomes.
  • Its relationship with other infantile epileptic syndromes remains an area of investigation.

Observation:

  • A case report details an infant diagnosed with MMPSI at 2 months old.
  • The infant presented with refractory multifocal partial seizures and normal neuroimaging.
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG) showed migrating epileptiform activities.

Findings:

  • The infant's condition progressed, with seizures remaining refractory to multiple antiepileptic drugs and ketogenic diet.
  • At 9 months, the infant developed epileptic spasms and hypsarrhythmia on EEG, consistent with West syndrome.
  • Severe developmental delay was noted throughout the observation period.

Implications:

  • MMPSI may represent a precursor or a continuum of infantile epileptic encephalopathies.
  • The evolution to West syndrome highlights the potential for progression in certain severe infantile epilepsies.
  • Understanding this progression can inform early diagnosis and management strategies for infantile epileptic encephalopathies.

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