Childhood absence epilepsy and developmental coordination disorder: an intriguing comorbidity

Epilepsy affects not only physical functioning but also neurocognitive, emotional, and social skills. In chronic epilepsy, cognitive impairment and executive dysfunction are closely related to seizure frequency and severity, making them useful predictive markers for clinical and therapeutic management. This study explores the clinical correlation between childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) and developmental coordination disorder (DCD) through a comprehensive assessment protocol.

Nineteen children diagnosed with CAE, according to ILAE criteria, were compared with twenty-one typically developing children. Assessments included evaluations of motor coordination using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children 2nd edition and visual-motor integration with the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual- Motor Integration.

Significant differences in motor coordination and visual-motor integration were observed between the CAE group and controls, with a higher prevalence of DCD in the CAE group (73.68% vs 4.76%). Moreover, a correlation between the duration of CAE and the severity of DCD was found, suggesting a potential cumulative effect over time. These findings underscore the significant impact of CAE on motor coordination and visual-motor integration skills, independent of age, gender, or intellectual abilities. Additionally, they highlight the importance of early identification and intervention for DCD in children with CAE to address long-term motor impairment and optimize outcomes.

This research contributes to understanding the shared neurobiological mechanisms underlying epilepsy and DCD, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive assessment and targeted interventions to support affected children's development and quality of life.