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Seizures and Epilepsy in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Frank M C Besag1, Michael J Vasey2
1East London NHS Foundation Trust, 5-7 Rush Court, Bedford MK40 3JT, UK; University College London, London, UK; King's College London, London, UK.
The Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|February 2, 2021
Summary
Epilepsy and autism frequently co-occur, increasing the risk for both conditions. Shared genetic, metabolic, mitochondrial, and immune factors may underlie this connection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- Epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit frequent co-occurrence.
- Individuals with epilepsy have a higher risk of developing ASD, and vice versa.
- Specific epilepsy syndromes, intellectual disability, and female sex are identified risk factors for ASD in epilepsy patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the frequent co-occurrence of epilepsy and autism.
- To identify specific risk factors for autism in individuals with epilepsy.
- To investigate potential shared etiologies between epilepsy and autism.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on epilepsy and autism co-occurrence.
- Analysis of epidemiological data and clinical studies.
- Examination of genetic, metabolic, mitochondrial, and immunological factors.
Main Results:
- Epilepsy and autism demonstrate a bidirectional increased risk.
- Epilepsy syndromes, intellectual disability, and female gender are significant risk factors for autism.
- Evidence suggests shared underlying etiologies, including genetic, metabolic, mitochondrial, and immune system dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Epilepsy and autism co-occurrence is a significant clinical observation.
- Understanding shared etiologies is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
- Further research into genetic and biological pathways is warranted.
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01:24Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview
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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...
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01:13Seizures: Classification
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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:
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:
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01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
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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.
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01:20Antiepileptic Drugs: Modulators of Neurotransmitter Release Mediated by SV2A Protein
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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.
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01:14Antiepileptic Drugs: Glutamate Antagonists
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Glutamate is a fundamental neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, playing a vital role in neuronal communication and various cognitive processes. Glutamate stands as the principal excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Its presence is crucial for the communication between neurons, underpinning essential processes such as synaptic transmission, neuronal excitability, and plasticity. These functions are vital for higher-order cognitive processes, including learning and memory. The...
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01:18Antiepileptic Drugs: GABAergic Pathway Potentiators
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The key GABA pathway potentiators used in epilepsy management are as follows.
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