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Basics

Jay K. Varma, MD


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

EPIDEMIOLOGY

Incidence

The incidence of epilepsy is between 30 and 80 per 100,000 in developed nations and is significantly higher in developing nations.

Prevalence

The prevalence of epilepsy in developed nations, including generalized and focal epilepsies, is between 4 and 10 per 1,000. The prevalence is higher in developing nations.

RISK FACTORS

A family history of epilepsy is a strong risk factor for generalized epilepsy. Children of patients with epilepsy are 3 times more likely to have epilepsy than the general population.

Genetics

ETIOLOGY

Diagnosis

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

PHYSICAL EXAM

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS AND INTERPRETATION

Lab

Initial Lab Tests

Provoking factors should be ruled out in the evaluation of an initial seizure. Electrolytes including calcium, glucose, liver function tests, renal function tests, serum antiepileptic drug (AED) levels, serum and urine drug tests may help determine the cause of an initial seizure or breakthrough seizure.

Imaging

Initial Approach

Brain MRI is the imaging study of choice. Brain imaging may not be necessary if the physical examination is normal and the history and EEG are consistent with CAE or JME.

Diagnostic Procedures/Other

DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS

Treatment

TREATMENT

MEDICATION

ADDITIONAL TREATMENT

General Measures

The goal of treatment is seizure-freedom without side effects. The patient and family must be educated about epilepsy and general safety measures and precautions for seizures.

Issues for Referral

All patients with epilepsy should be followed by a neurologist who can monitor and adjust AED therapy. Patients with refractory epilepsy may benefit from evaluation at a comprehensive epilepsy center.

Additional Therapies

A ketogenic diet may be an effective treatment in refractory epilepsy.

SURGERY/OTHER PROCEDURES

Pregnancy Considerations

Women of childbearing age should be counseled on the risk of teratogenic effects of AEDs, particularly valproic acid. The risk of major congenital malformations increases with increase in doses and increase in numbers of medications.

Ongoing Care

ONGOING-CARE

PATIENT EDUCATION

Patients with uncontrolled seizures should be counseled against driving and operating heavy machinery. State and local laws vary regarding mandatory reporting of a diagnosis of epilepsy to the authorities. They should take caution when standing at heights or when swimming or bathing. Patients with generalized tonic–clonic, tonic, and atonic seizures are at significant risk of injury from falling.

PROGNOSIS

Prognosis is highly dependent upon the epilepsy syndrome.

Additional Reading

Codes

CODES

ICD9

Clinical Pearls

Careful determination of the type of generalized seizure syndrome assists in identification of efficacious therapy.