Epileptic encephalopathy with continuous spikes and waves during sleep
Pasquale Striano1, Giuseppe Capovilla
1Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, G. Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy. strianop@gmail.com
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
|May 14, 2013
Summary
Epileptic encephalopathy with continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep (EECSWSS) is a childhood epilepsy causing cognitive and behavioral issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving the poor long-term outlook.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Neurophysiology
- Epileptology
Background:
- Epileptic encephalopathy with continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep (EECSWSS) is a specific childhood epilepsy syndrome.
- It presents with epilepsy, cognitive/behavioral deficits, and characteristic EEG findings during sleep.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define EECSWSS and its electroencephalographic pattern.
- To highlight the association between the EEG pattern and clinical manifestations.
- To emphasize the importance of early recognition and treatment for prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of the literature on EECSWSS.
- Description of the electroencephalographic characteristics of continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep (CSWS).
Main Results:
- CSWS is defined by nearly continuous spike-wave discharges (1.5-3 Hz) during non-REM sleep.
- EECSWSS is viewed as a spectrum of conditions with varied origins and clinical severity.
- A strong temporal link exists between the CSWS pattern and neuropsychological impairment.
Conclusions:
- Long-term prognosis for EECSWSS is generally poor due to persistent neuropsychological deficits.
- Early identification and effective therapeutic interventions are essential for potentially improving patient outcomes.
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