Plasma prolactin in epilepsy and pseudoseizures

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatrics
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Distinguishing between generalized seizures and pseudoseizures in children can be challenging.
• Plasma prolactin levels have been investigated as a potential biomarker for seizure activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of postictal plasma prolactin levels in differentiating generalized seizures from pseudoseizures in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Plasma prolactin levels were measured postictally in 15 children with generalized seizures, 8 with pseudoseizures, and 6 controls.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare prolactin levels between the groups.

Main Results:

• Mean plasma prolactin levels were significantly elevated (28.6 +/- 2.3 ng/ml) following generalized seizures.
• In contrast, mean prolactin levels were near-normal (10.4 +/- 3.8 ng/ml and 9.8 +/- 2.6 ng/ml) in children with pseudoseizures and controls, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Postictal plasma prolactin levels are significantly elevated after generalized seizures but not after pseudoseizures.
• Plasma prolactin measurement is a potentially valuable tool for differentiating generalized seizures from pseudoseizures in children.