Neuropsychological and behavioural aspects in children and adolescents with idiopathic epilepsy

Neurology note - A comprehensive approach to epilepsy includes attention to neuropsychological function. Dr Rotenberg

Seizure. 2010 Aug 21. [Epub ahead of print]

Neuropsychological and behavioural aspects in children and adolescents with idiopathic epilepsy at diagnosis and after 12 months of treatment.

Piccinelli P, Beghi E, Borgatti R, Ferri M, Giordano L, Romeo A, Termine C, Viri M, Zucca C, Balottin U.

Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University of Insubria, Macchi Foundation Hospital, Varese, Italy; Department of Child Neurorehabilitation, "Eugenio Medea" Scientific Institute, Bosisio Parini, Italy.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To study neuropsychological functions in children with idiopathic epilepsy at onset of treatment and after 1 year of therapy and to identify factors associated with cognitive impairment.

METHODS: 43 Subjects aged 5.2-16.9 years with newly diagnosed idiopathic epilepsy were enrolled and started treatment with valproate or carbamazepine. At admission and after 12 months, all patients underwent clinical examinations, the Child Behavioural Checklist, EEG and a neuropsychological test battery. The results of each test were correlated to demographic, clinical, electrophysiological and therapeutic variables.

RESULTS: Except for attention, all neuropsychological functions were normal at admission and after 12 months. An improvement with time was noted for memory (p<0.05)>

DISCUSSION: Idiopathic epilepsy can affect attention, even before starting treatment. Emotional and behavioural difficulties and a low socio-economical status are associated with cognitive impairment.

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PMID: 20732824 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]