ILAE neuroimaging task force highlight: Subcortical laminar heterotopia

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Epilepsy
• Congenital Malformations

Background:

• Subcortical laminar heterotopia (SBH), also known as "double cortex," is a rare congenital malformation of cortical development.
• SBH is part of the agyria-pachygyria-band spectrum and is associated with refractory epilepsy and developmental delay.
• A genetic basis is increasingly identified in SBH cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight basic aspects of neuroimaging in epilepsy through educational case reports.
• To address the diagnostic and treatment challenges of SBH in epilepsy patients.
• To emphasize the value of high-resolution imaging and specialized MRI protocols for SBH diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Presentation of an illustrative case of SBH.
• Discussion of diagnostic challenges, including subtle and non-classic MRI findings.
• Emphasis on high-resolution imaging and specialized MRI protocols.

Main Results:

• SBH diagnosis can be challenging due to subtle or atypical MRI presentations.
• High-resolution imaging and specialized MRI protocols are vital for accurate SBH diagnosis.
• Effective management of SBH-related epilepsy requires careful diagnostic consideration.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis of SBH is critical for appropriate epilepsy management.
• Advanced neuroimaging techniques are essential for identifying SBH, especially in complex cases.
• ILAE educational case reports aim to improve understanding and diagnosis of neuroimaging aspects in epilepsy.