The value of a neuropsychiatric examination of children with complex severe epilepsy

The feasibility and utility of a neuropsychiatric assessment in a cohort of severely impaired children with long-standing epilepsy (n = 96) is tested. This assessment is described, and some results reported in this highly selected group. Substantial difficulties in coordination were present in nearly three-quarters of the sample, and dysarthria identified in two-thirds. Psychiatric interviewing identified cases of mood disturbance that altered overall treatment of that child, and a more systematic behavioural assessment permitted clearer management of behavioural problems already known to staff. This research supports previous findings that a full neuropsychiatric evaluation is both practical and has an important place in the early assessment and ongoing management of complex childhood epilepsy.