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Abdominal epilepsy in chronic recurrent abdominal pain
V Y Kshirsagar1, Suhel Nagarsenkar, Minhajuddin Ahmed
1Department of Pediatrics, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University, Krishna Hospital, Karad, Maharashtra, India.
Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences
|April 6, 2013
Summary
Abdominal epilepsy (AE) is a key diagnosis for children with recurrent abdominal pain. Electroencephalogram (EEG) testing and anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) effectively manage symptoms, reducing unnecessary investigations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Abdominal epilepsy (AE) is an uncommon cause of chronic recurrent abdominal pain in children.
- AE presents with paroxysmal abdominal pain, diverse gastrointestinal complaints, and abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG) findings.
- Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) often lead to favorable responses in AE cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of AE in children with chronic recurrent abdominal pain.
- To correlate EEG findings with clinical response to empirical AED treatment.
- To evaluate AE diagnosis and management in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective analytical study was conducted involving 150 children with chronic recurrent abdominal pain.
- Common causes of abdominal pain were excluded, followed by EEG investigations.
- All participants received anti-epileptic drug (AED) treatment (Oxcarbazepine), and treatment responses were monitored.
Main Results:
- 74% (111/150) of children exhibited abnormal EEG findings suggestive of epileptogenic activity.
- Children with abnormal EEGs showed a 100% response rate to AEDs.
- 18% (27/150) of children with normal EEGs also responded to AED treatment, indicating potential misdiagnosis or broader efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Abdominal epilepsy (AE) should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic recurrent abdominal pain in children.
- EEG testing is crucial for confirming AE and can prevent extensive, unnecessary investigations.
- Early diagnosis and treatment with AEDs can significantly alleviate suffering and improve outcomes for affected children.
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