Children with autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy

Pediatric Annals
|December 4, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability. This review covers epilepsy and EEG findings in ASD, exploring controversial links and treatment options.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Clinical Neurology

Background:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability impacting social communication and behavior.
  • A significant comorbidity exists between ASD and epilepsy, with up to one-third of individuals experiencing seizures.
  • The precise relationship between autism and epilepsy remains a subject of ongoing research and debate.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the types of seizures observed in children and adolescents with ASD.
  • To discuss electroencephalography (EEG) findings in the context of ASD and epilepsy.
  • To outline current treatment strategies for seizures in individuals with ASD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and EEG abnormalities.
  • Analysis of seizure types, EEG patterns, and treatment approaches.
  • Examination of associated syndromes linking autism phenotype and epilepsy.

Main Results:

  • ASD is characterized by social-communication deficits and restricted behaviors.
  • Epilepsy and epileptiform EEG abnormalities are more prevalent in children with ASD.
  • Various seizure types and EEG findings are associated with ASD.

Conclusions:

  • The co-occurrence of epilepsy in ASD warrants further investigation into underlying mechanisms.
  • Understanding seizure types and EEG findings is crucial for managing ASD.
  • Comprehensive management strategies are needed for individuals with both ASD and epilepsy.

Related Concept Videos

Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
2.0K
Epilepsy ll: Types01:22

Epilepsy ll: Types

Recurrent seizures, stemming from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, are the defining characteristic of epilepsy, a chronic neurological condition. Because seizure features vary greatly, epilepsy is classified using two systems: by seizure type and by epilepsy syndromes. These classifications enable clinicians to describe seizure patterns and select suitable treatment strategies.I. Classification by Seizure Type1. Focal EpilepsyFocal epilepsy begins in one hemisphere of the brain.
54
Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview01:24

Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease marked by recurrent, unpredictable seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, leading to behavior, sensation, or consciousness alterations. They can also cause transient impairment of awareness, interfering with daily activities.
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
1.8K
Seizures: Classification01:13

Seizures: Classification

Epilepsy is primarily characterized by unpredictable seizures, either provoked by an identifiable factor, such as injury or illness, or unprovoked, occurring spontaneously without apparent cause.
Seizures are typically classified into two main categories: focal and generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures originate from specific regions of the brain. These seizures are further sub-classified into two types:
2.5K
Seizures l: Introduction01:20

Seizures l: Introduction

Understanding seizures and epilepsy relies on key definitions that help in recognizing, classifying, and managing these disorders. These definitions provide a framework for recognizing, classifying, and managing seizure disorders.DefinitionsA seizure is a sudden, abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in awareness, movement, sensation, or behavior, depending on the area involved. Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures,...
43
Antiepileptic Drugs: Modulators of Neurotransmitter Release Mediated by SV2A Protein01:20

Antiepileptic Drugs: Modulators of Neurotransmitter Release Mediated by SV2A Protein

Antiepileptic drugs, such as levetiracetam (Keppra) and brivaracetam (Briviact), have emerged as crucial tools in managing epilepsy. These medications exert their therapeutic effects by targeting the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, a transmembrane glycoprotein primarily found in the brain.
SV2A is a transmembrane glycoprotein located predominantly in the brain, modulating the release of neurotransmitters for neuronal communication. Both levetiracetam and brivaracetam exhibit a high affinity for...
1.2K