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Psychiatric disturbances in idiopathic epilepsy
Saloua Mrabet1,2, Syrine Belguith1, Imen Kacem1,2
1Department of Neurology, LR 18SP03, Clinical Investigation Centre Neurosciences and Mental Health, Razi University Hospital, Manouba Tunisia.
La Tunisie Medicale
|March 12, 2024
Summary
Psychiatric symptoms are common in idiopathic epilepsy, affecting 61% of patients. Female gender and longer epilepsy duration increase risk, while certain medications may reduce depression.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- The link between epilepsy and psychiatric disorders is well-established.
- Idiopathic epilepsy typically follows a benign course, but psychiatric comorbidities can worsen outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of psychiatric symptoms in patients with idiopathic epilepsy.
- To identify factors associated with psychiatric manifestations in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- A one-year prospective study included consecutive patients with idiopathic epilepsy.
- Exclusion criteria: prior psychiatric follow-up or postictal psychiatric disturbances.
- Psychiatric symptoms assessed using validated scales (NDDE, GAD-7, NPI).
Main Results:
- Psychiatric symptoms were observed in 61% of 101 idiopathic epilepsy patients.
- Anxiety (36.6%), psychotic features (21%), and depression (15.8%) were most prevalent.
- Female gender and longer epilepsy duration were significant risk factors; Carbamazepine and Valproic acid use correlated with lower depression rates.
Conclusions:
- Psychiatric disturbances are frequent in idiopathic epilepsy, with anxiety and psychotic features being most common.
- Female gender and disease duration are key determinants of psychiatric manifestations.
- These factors warrant consideration in the clinical management of idiopathic epilepsy.
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