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Epilepsy in Down syndrome--prevalence in three age groups
P Johannsen1, J E Christensen, H Goldstein
1Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.
Seizure
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Epilepsy affects 17% of individuals with Down syndrome. This study investigated epilepsy prevalence and seizure types in Down syndrome patients, finding varied EEG results in those with and without epilepsy.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Genetics
- Epileptology
Background:
- Down syndrome is associated with a higher risk of epilepsy.
- Understanding epilepsy prevalence in this population is crucial for management.
- Previous studies have varied in their findings regarding epilepsy in Down syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of epilepsy in patients with Down syndrome.
- To classify seizure types according to the ILAE-1981 classification.
- To explore the relationship between EEG findings and epilepsy in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- A prevalence study was conducted in Aarhus, Denmark.
- 85 patients with Down syndrome were identified across three age groups.
- Participants underwent interviews, neurological examinations, and in 50 cases, EEG recordings.
Main Results:
- Twelve out of 72 participating patients (17%) had epilepsy.
- The most common seizure types were primary generalized (seven patients) and partial (two patients).
- Two patients with epilepsy had normal EEGs, and 13 patients without epilepsy had abnormal EEGs.
Conclusions:
- Epilepsy is prevalent in individuals with Down syndrome.
- Seizure classification and EEG findings in Down syndrome patients with epilepsy require further investigation.
- The study highlights the complexity of epilepsy diagnosis and management in Down syndrome.