Language dysfunction is associated with age of onset of benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes in children

To assess the language function of children with benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS), and investigate associated risk factors.

The language function of 63 children with BECTS and 30 healthy controls was assessed using the language subtest of the Chinese version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (C-WISC). Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to assess the risk factors of language dysfunction in children with BECTS.

The total score of language test of C-WISC, and the individual scores, were significantly lower in children with BECTS compared with the scores attained by the healthy controls, and were also significantly lower in children with BECTS with onset earlier than 6 years of age compared with those whose disease onset occurred later. There were no significant correlations between language function and treatment, frequency of seizures, lateralization of centrotemporal spikes, or duration of seizures, but there was a positive correlation between language dysfunction and the age at disease onset.

Children with BECTS have language difficulties, especially those with earlier disease onset. Early age at seizure onset is a risk factor for language dysfunction in children with BECTS.