Articles tagged with Epilepsy
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A study finds that more than 60% of people in low- and lower-middle income regions are not accessing any appropriate epilepsy treatment. The burden of epilepsy in these regions is estimated to be at least double that found in high-income countries, with inadequate facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Children and adults with epilepsy often experience psychiatric disorders, cognitive disorders, and social problems. Early detection and treatment of these comorbidities can improve quality of care and life.
The burden of epilepsy in low- and lower-middle-income countries is substantial, with twice as many people affected than in higher income nations. Despite being a cost-effective disorder to treat, only 40% of those affected receive appropriate care due to factors such as stigma, cultural beliefs, and lack of skilled manpower.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center discovered a biological mechanism that causes brain seizures in mice with molecular disruptions in small neurons called granule cells. Treating epileptic mice with a drug that blocks the mTOR pathway stopped seizures, solidifying the link to the PTEN-mTOR pathway.
Researchers identified a genetic mutation that speeds up metabolism of certain amino acids, leading to epilepsy and neurobehavioral symptoms in patients with autism. Nutritional supplementation with branched chain amino acids reversed symptoms in mice and showed potential for human treatment.
Researchers at University of Minnesota develop new non-invasive brain scan technique to study seizures immediately after they occur. The method could lead to breakthroughs in identifying the brain regions responsible for seizures and finding effective treatments.
Scientists at UCLA and the Technion have unraveled how our brain cells encode vowel pronunciation in speech. They found two distinct areas in the brain responsible for this process, one responding to all vowels and another firing exclusively for specific vowels.
New research finds that epilepsy patients taking antiepileptic drugs are up to four times more likely to suffer fractures and have osteoporosis compared to non-users. The study also showed a significant increase in falls among female patients taking the medication.
A new invasive imaging technique monitors brain function in patients with diseases such as epilepsy, providing real-time analysis at a higher resolution than current technologies. The procedure uses pre-placed electrodes to image the brain, offering unprecedented insight into its function.
A study by European Society of Human Genetics researchers identifies a crucial factor, CD36 fatty acid transporter protein, in suppressing response to VPA treatment. Monitoring blood for CD36 levels can help doctors determine response to treatment before starting therapy.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered the genetic cause of double-cortex syndrome, a form of epilepsy that affects primarily females. The study found that disease-causing mutations disrupt teamwork between proteins necessary for brain cell skeleton construction, leading to malformation and seizures.
Researchers at Newcastle University have identified a unique brain wave pattern, called glissando, that can predict epileptic seizures. The study found that this pattern is highly indicative of human epilepsy and cannot be easily reproduced in non-epileptic brain tissue.
A 25-year follow-up study found that 68% of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy patients became seizure-free, with nearly 30% no longer needing antiepileptic drug treatment. AED polytherapy and generalized tonic-clonic seizures preceding bilateral myoclonic seizures predicted poor long-term seizure outcomes.
Researchers have found an imbalance between neuronal excitation and inhibition in individuals with Angelman syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by seizures, cognitive delay, and severe intellectual disability. This imbalance may underlie the high seizure activity observed in AS patients.
Researchers discovered a link between a protein called BAD and glucose metabolism in the brain, finding that modifications to this protein reduced seizure susceptibility. The study suggests that targeting BAD could lead to new treatments for epilepsy.
A protein called BAD modifies cellular metabolism in the brain, resisting epileptic seizures and providing a potential treatment option. Researchers discovered that altering BAD's function can reduce seizures without dietary therapy.
A study published in Epilepsia found that pediatric epilepsy severely affects both child and parental sleep patterns. Parents of children with epilepsy reported decreased sleep quality when sharing a room or co-sleeping with their child, while children experienced greater sleep disturbance and daytime sleepiness.
A new study found that how well people respond to their first drug treatment for newly diagnosed epilepsy can predict their likelihood of having more seizures. The study showed that 50% of participants were seizure-free after the first drug, while only 4% remained seizure-free after the third drug regimen.
A study published in Neurology found that the response to initial treatment can predict future seizure risk. The research followed 1,098 people with newly diagnosed epilepsy for up to 26 years and found that 50% were seizure-free after the first drug tried, while 4% became seizure-free after the third.
Individuals with epilepsy have a higher risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, as well as an increased likelihood of developing psychosis. A Finnish study found that families with a history of epilepsy were more likely to experience both conditions.
Michigan State University researchers are leading a clinical trial in Malawi to test the safety and feasibility of levetiracetam, an anti-seizure medication, to control seizures in children with cerebral malaria. The trial aims to improve neurologic outcomes for survivors, who often develop epilepsy or other neurologic disorders.
Researchers at MIT and two Boston hospitals have developed a simple wrist sensor that can measure the severity of epileptic seizures with high accuracy, potentially allowing patients to monitor their condition at home. The device could also predict seizure onset, enabling early intervention.
Researchers discovered that adult brains can form new synapses and prune existing ones in response to learning. This process may hold hope for treating neurodevelopmental disorders such as epilepsy, autism, and schizophrenia.
A new study from UCSF found that brain surgery for epilepsy has not increased in the decade since a landmark clinical trial demonstrated its effectiveness. Despite this, thousands of Americans suffer from uncontrolled seizures each year, highlighting disparities by race and insurance status.
Researchers have identified a protein called SUMO that regulates information transfer between nerve cells in the brain. The discovery could lead to new therapies for stroke and epilepsy.
A 'brain-only' mutation has been discovered that causes hemimegalencephaly (HMG), a condition characterized by an enlarged and dysfunctional half of the brain. This mutation is limited to brain tissue and contributes to overgrowth, intellectual disability, and severe epilepsy.
Patients with pseudo-seizures, also known as psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), often misdiagnosed due to stress-triggered symptoms. Research suggests that these patients lack effective coping mechanisms and are more distressed by stressful events than those with epilepsy or healthy individuals.
Researchers have developed new seizure detection software that significantly reduces false alarms, offering promise for improved epilepsy treatment. The system uses algorithms to detect imminent seizures and has been tested on real-time brain activity recordings from four patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.
Research confirms that childhood onset temporal lobe epilepsy is associated with significant cognitive and developmental deficiencies. As patients age, extensive brain structural abnormalities persist, including ventricular expansion and cortical thickness changes.
Research finds astrocytes play a key role in reducing electrical signals, influencing neuron firing and synaptic fidelity. The discovery offers new insights into diseases like epilepsy, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
A study published in Archives of Neurology found that early-initiated immunotherapy is associated with improved seizure outcomes among patients with autoimmune epilepsy. In a cohort of 32 patients, 81% reported improvement after immunotherapy and 44% were seizure-free within 12 weeks.
A new epilepsy gene has been discovered in dogs, specifically in Belgian Shepherds, which is associated with a seven-fold increased risk of epilepsy. The research also suggests that other genetic risk factors may be present in the breed, and ongoing studies aim to identify the specific gene causing epilepsy.
Researchers will study new methods to detect impending seizures using real-time EEG data, aiming to prevent seizures through fast-acting drug therapies. The goal is reliable seizure forecasting and timely intervention for both canine and human epilepsy.
A recent study published in JAMA found that patients with epilepsy who underwent brain surgery soon after failing to respond to drug treatment had a lower risk of seizures during the 2nd year of follow-up. The study showed that 73% of participants in the surgical group were seizure-free, compared to 0% in the medical group.
The research aims to use real-time EEG data to detect impending seizures and develop fast-acting drug therapies to prevent them. The technology has the potential to improve epilepsy management for both canine and human patients.
A study found that 73% of patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy who underwent surgery were seizure-free after two years. The procedure, called anteromesial temporal resection, also improved quality of life for those patients. Early diagnosis and referral to specialized centers are crucial for optimal treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that early surgical intervention followed by antiepileptic drugs stopped seizures and improved quality of life for patients with medically intractable temporal lobe epilepsy. The study suggests that surgery should not be viewed as a last resort for these patients.
A recent study published in Epilepsy & Behavior found that 41% of seizure-related tweets were derogatory, perpetuating negative attitudes towards epilepsy. The study highlights the need for improved epilepsy education to combat these stereotypes and promote positive change.
A $2 million grant from NINDS funds research into the psychosocial impacts of epilepsy testing. The study aims to explore how genetic information affects individuals and their families, with a focus on reducing stigma and discrimination associated with epilepsy.
Researchers identified a previously unknown mutation in a sodium channel protein as the likely cause of a rare and severe form of epilepsy. The discovery provides emotional relief to the patient's family, who had been searching for answers.
A comprehensive review found that switching brand-name antiepileptic drugs for generic equivalents can lead to increased hospitalizations and longer stays. The studies suggest that the switching aspect, rather than the drug itself, may be causing the problem, but more research is needed to confirm.
Researchers found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine can prevent sudden death in epilepsy patients by enhancing respiratory function. The study provides hope for developing treatments to lessen SUDEP risk, but further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.
A 26-year study found that nearly half of epilepsy surgery patients were free of disabling seizures, while 80% reported better quality of life. The study suggests increased use of surgical intervention could offer patients long-term seizure control and improved lives.
Researchers at UCSF are sequencing the DNA of 4,000 people with various forms of epilepsy in a bid to identify the genetic causes of the disease. The study, funded by a $25-million grant, will also explore ways to treat people with epilepsy and uncover new patterns of genetics.
A new guideline issued by the American Academy of Neurology recommends caution when selecting seizure medications for individuals with HIV/AIDS due to the risk of adverse interactions. The guideline aims to minimize the impact of these drug combinations, particularly in developing countries where treatment options are limited.
New guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology provide treatment recommendations for people with HIV/AIDS taking seizure drugs. The guidelines aim to prevent drug interactions that could make HIV drugs less effective or lead to a more virulent strain of the disease.
A large Swedish study found that having epilepsy is not directly linked to committing violent crime, contradicting common public opinion. However, individuals with a history of traumatic brain injury were more likely to commit violent crimes after diagnosis.
A combination of lamotrigine and valproate significantly reduced seizure frequency in patients with very difficult-to-control epilepsy. The treatment regimen, out of 32 tested combinations, showed superior efficacy compared to other regimens.
Researchers have developed a new method to analyze electrical activity in the brain, enabling better diagnosis and treatment of brain illnesses. The technique can help identify impending seizures and paralysis, allowing for more effective interventions.
The WHO Mental Health Gap Action Programme aims to reduce the treatment gap for mental, neurological, and substance use disorders in low- and middle-income countries. The programme provides evidence-based management recommendations to improve access to treatment and care.
Researchers found that patients with epilepsy on long-term antiepileptic drugs, especially phenytoin, carbamazepine, and valproic acid, are at increased risk for developing atherosclerosis. The study suggests that newer AEDs like lamotrigine may minimize metabolic disturbances and reduce this risk.
A new microelectronic device developed by a Penn-led team can record brain activity at high resolutions, revolutionizing brain-computer interfaces for treating neurological and psychiatric illnesses. The device's flexibility and multiplexed nanosensors enable precise mapping of brain networks underlying normal function and disease.
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) affects 2.7 million Americans, with a high risk associated with chronic and severe cases. Increased awareness, improved prevention, and better treatments can help reduce SUDEP rates through devices that detect seizures and understanding its mechanisms.
A first-of-its-kind study found that brain stimulation significantly reduced 'medically refractory' epileptic seizures in adults. The NeuroPace Responsive Neurostimulation System delivered electrical pulses to stop seizures, providing a new treatment option for patients who have tried multiple medications and surgery without success.
Researchers developed a method to optimize ion channel activity, reversing abnormal neuronal function and pathology in epilepsy. The study suggests this approach may be useful for other brain diseases and organs with excitable cells.
Around half of adults undergoing surgery for epilepsy are seizure-free after 10 years, with improved outcomes seen for those with anterior temporal resections. The study highlights the need for further improvements in presurgical assessment and surgical treatment to increase success rates.
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found a strong connection between premature birth and an increased risk of developing epilepsy later in life. Adults born prematurely were five times more likely to be hospitalized for epilepsy compared to those born full-term.
A recent study published in Epilepsia found a strong bidirectional relationship between schizophrenia and epilepsy. Patients with epilepsy were significantly more likely to develop schizophrenia, while those with schizophrenia had a higher incidence of epilepsy. The research suggests shared genetic and environmental factors contributin...
A new study found that epilepsy patients who receive additional treatment with antiepileptic drugs have a seven times lower risk of dying from a sudden unexpected death. The study suggests that the reduction in seizure frequency is the most likely explanation for this finding.
The Division of Pain Medicine at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center received a 2011 Medical & Academic Partnerships Fellowship Award from Pfizer Inc. The Epilepsy Center also received an award for its nationally competitive research. The fellowships support patient-oriented research to improve healthcare outcomes.