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Neuropsychological consequences of sleep disturbance in children with epilepsy

Julia F Beattie1, Sarah A Koch1, Lauren B Bolden1

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Campbell Hall 201, 1720 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.

Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|March 8, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Children with epilepsy often have sleep problems that impact their cognition and behavior. Addressing these sleep issues is crucial for improving overall health and well-being in pediatric epilepsy patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Neuropsychology

Background:

  • Sleep disturbances and altered sleep architecture are common in children.
  • Children with epilepsy frequently exhibit neuropsychological comorbidities like cognitive deficits and behavioral issues.
  • Sleep may play a moderating role in the presentation of these comorbidities in pediatric epilepsy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the prevalence and characteristics of sleep problems in children with epilepsy.
  • To discuss the bidirectional relationship between sleep and seizure frequency.
  • To examine the impact of sleep disturbance on daytime cognition and behavior.
  • To outline clinical practices for assessing and treating sleep complications and suggest future research directions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research on sleep and epilepsy in children.
  • Synthesis of findings on sleep problem prevalence, characteristics, and their relationship with seizure frequency.
  • Analysis of studies linking sleep disturbance to cognitive and behavioral outcomes.
  • Review of current clinical practices and research gaps.

Main Results:

  • Sleep problems are prevalent and varied in children with epilepsy.
  • A complex, bidirectional relationship exists between sleep patterns and seizure frequency.
  • Significant associations are found between sleep disturbance and impaired daytime cognition and behavior.
  • Current assessment and treatment strategies for sleep-related issues are discussed.

Conclusions:

  • Sleep disturbance is a significant factor affecting neuropsychological functioning in children with epilepsy.
  • Understanding and managing sleep problems is essential for comprehensive care.
  • Further research is needed on interventions and refined assessment methods for sleep-related complications in this population.

Keywords:
EpilepsyNeuropsychological comorbiditiesSeizuresSleep

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