Articles tagged with Epilepsy
A recent study found that women with generalized tonic-clonic seizures had a greater number of seizures during anovulatory cycles than in ovulatory cycles. This suggests that reproductive steroids, such as estradiol and progesterone, may contribute to the occurrence of tonic-clonic seizures.
A new study has linked out-of-body experiences to neural instabilities in the brain's temporal lobes and errors in the body's sense of itself. Healthy individuals who experience OBEs showed signs of neuroelectrical anomalies and biases in body representation.
Research highlights the importance of controlling seizures through effective drug treatment and good compliance in protecting against SUDEP. The study also recommends modifying risk factors such as polytherapy and non-adherence to prescribed medications.
A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that generic anti-epilepsy drugs have varying levels of effectiveness, particularly when switched between two generics, raising concerns about safe dosing practices. The study highlights the need for policy makers to evaluate standards for generic drugs' similarity to brand-name versions.
Researchers have identified a central switch responsible for transforming healthy brain cells into epileptic ones. The discovery marks a dramatic change in understanding how temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) develops, revealing the role of epigenetic mechanisms and a master switch-like protein called NRSF.
Researchers identify dozens of rare genetic variants in ion channel genes associated with epilepsy, as well as nearly identical variations in healthy individuals. The study suggests that a combination of altered channels can mask individual defects, leading to a complex interplay between gene variants and the development of epilepsy.
Researchers at UC Riverside have made a breakthrough discovery in understanding epileptic seizures by developing a computational model that simulates the cortical network. The model shows that restricting chloride increase can lead to faster seizure termination and even make seizures impossible, offering new hope for treating epilepsy.
A new study reveals that four common epilepsy medications associated with a dose-dependent increased risk of major birth defects. The research suggests that doctors should select the safest effective treatment for pregnant women with epilepsy by considering individual drug and dose options.
A recent study found that preschool children with epilepsy exhibit significant cognitive impairment, particularly those with early-onset seizures. The study suggests that age at seizure onset is a crucial factor in determining cognitive function, with higher IQ scores associated with later seizure onset.
A new nerve-stimulation treatment called Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation (TNS) has shown promise in controlling seizures in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. In a Phase 2 clinical trial, 40% of patients experienced a significant reduction in seizure frequency, with some also experiencing improved mood.
A study comparing the US economy to epilepsy suggests a connection between economic downturns and seizure-like behavior in financial markets. The researchers propose severing excess links between sectors to cure market distortions.
Scientists have discovered the CLN6 gene on chromosome 15 as the cause of inherited recessive Kufs type A disease. This breakthrough enables a rapid and simple blood test for diagnosis, screening in at-risk families, and genetic counseling.
A study found nearly 60% of children with newly diagnosed epilepsy showed persistent nonadherence during the first 6 months of therapy. Lower socioeconomic status was associated with higher non-adherence rates, indicating a need for intervention studies to optimize adherence early in treatment.
A new study found that treatment-resistant epilepsy (TRE) is common in idiopathic autism, with early age at seizure onset and delayed global development associated with TRE. Researchers also discovered that patients with TRE had more developmental regression, motor and language delays than those who were seizure-free.
A study published in the Journal of Child Neurology found that brain donors with autism and epilepsy had a significantly higher mortality rate than those with autism alone, increasing by over 800%. The research highlights the importance of early identification of epilepsy in children with autism.
Perampanel, a new drug, has shown promise in reducing seizures in people with hard-to-control epilepsy. The study involved 387 participants who took either the 12mg or 8mg dose of perampanel and reported a significant reduction in seizure frequency compared to those taking a placebo.
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have discovered a potential mechanism that may contribute to the link between epilepsy and fragile X syndrome. The protein FMRP controls the production of a protein called Kv4.2, which regulates electrical signals in brain cells.
A new study reveals that Iraqi refugees are disproportionately affected by brain and nervous system disorders, with 4% of all registered refugees having a diagnosed condition. The most common diagnoses were epilepsy, back pain, and headache, with many refugees experiencing torture-related injuries.
A new gene, SYN1, has been identified as a predisposing factor for both autism and epilepsy in individuals from Quebec. Mutations in this gene lead to impaired synaptic function, causing communication between neurons to break down. This study provides a key to understanding the comorbidity of these devastating diseases.
A team of researchers from Washington University used electrocortiography (ECoG) to control a computer cursor using words spoken out loud and in their head. The study showed up to 90% accuracy, even without prior training, and has huge potential for patients with speech disorders or limited movement. Future operations may use small, mi...
Researchers at Vanderbilt University identified a new gene, KCNV2, that influences the risk of developing epilepsy. The gene codes for a unique potassium channel protein and alters electrical activity in nerve cells, leading to seizures.
The new stereo-EEG method enables exact localization of functionally important brain areas, improving the safety of epilepsy surgery. The technique also provides a more pleasant experience for patients, with thin recording electrodes placed through small holes.
A new study published in Epilepsia found that children with epilepsy are at increased risk of developing behavioral and psychiatric problems. The study showed that girls were more likely to experience emotional problems, while boys had more hyperactivity/inattention issues and peer relationship problems.
Researchers at Concordia University have developed a novel algorithm to detect epileptic seizures in real-time, analyzing EEG recordings of patients' brains. The new method has been shown to be highly accurate, detecting every seizure while scoring extremely low false positives rates, and may have applications beyond epilepsy.
Cardiac pacing has been shown to reduce falls in epilepsy patients with ictal asystole, a condition where the heart stops beating during an epileptic seizure. The study found significant reductions in fall rates and seizures after implantation, suggesting potential anti-seizure properties of pacemaker implants.
Brown University researcher Robert Reenan has created mutant fruit flies that mimic human epilepsy, with the goal of finding genes that can suppress seizures. By using a unique technique called homologous recombination, Reenan hopes to induce mutations in the flies that may lead to a genetic cure for epilepsy.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh identified a critical protein that maintains nerve fibre health, potentially improving understanding of neurodegenerative disorders. The discovery could lead to new insights into conditions like epilepsy, dementia, and stroke by unraveling the complexities of brain function.
A survey of patients with epilepsy found that they ranked memory loss as their second-most important concern, while doctors ranked it 12th. Practitioners were more concerned about unexpected seizures, which was also the top concern for both groups.
Young adults with chronic illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, or epilepsy, are less likely to graduate high school and secure employment. They also experience higher rates of public assistance and disability insurance.
A Brown University study uncovers a novel protective effect of the molecule putrescine on brain activity after epileptic seizures. Putrescine converts into GABA, calming brain activity and increasing resistance to subsequent seizures.
A study published in Epilepsia reveals that patients with epilepsy and low socioeconomic status experience more uncontrolled seizures, drug-related side effects, and a lower quality of life. Low SES patients also use hospital emergency rooms more frequently and have more visits to general practitioners.
Researchers have developed a software application that automatically detects subtle brain lesions in MRI scans of epilepsy patients, identifying 92% of previously undetectable abnormalities. This proof-of-concept study validates the potential of non-invasive, automated detection tools for diagnosing and planning epilepsy surgery.
Loyola University Health System neurologists Dr. José Biller and Dr. Michael J. Schneck predict an 'explosive growth in potential medical therapies' for age-related neurological disorders. New treatments and diagnostic tests have led to an increased demand for neurologists and interest in the field.
Research suggests that Frédéric Chopin's hallucinations were probably caused by temporal lobe epilepsy, a condition that can produce brief, fragmentary, and stereotyped visual hallucinations. The authors draw on the composer's own descriptions of his experiences and accounts from friends and pupils to support their claim.
Scientists from UT Health Science Center San Antonio discovered a relationship between phosphoinositide kinases and calcium ions in nerve cells, which could lead to treatments for neurological disorders. The study's findings have implications for epilepsy, stroke, dementia, hypertension, mental illness, and other diseases.
A study found that maternal depression affects the health-related quality of life of children with epilepsy, but this impact is modulated by family resources and functioning. The accumulation of supportive resources for both mothers and children with epilepsy can lead to improved outcomes over time.
Researchers used PET scans to evaluate cognitive dysfunction in children with fever-induced refractory epileptic encephalopathy (FIRES), finding significant brain impairment. The study identified frontotemporal dysfunction as the cause of cognitive deterioration, paving the way for more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
A study found that at least one in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime, with higher risks for the elderly. This highlights the need for more research using epilepsy surveillance data to inform healthcare planning and improve patient care.
Dr. Douglas Coulter, a neuroscientist at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, has received the American Epilepsy Society's 2010 Epilepsy Research Recognition Award for Basic Science. His pioneering contributions have focused on understanding altered brain cell and circuit function in epilepsy development.
Researchers found that brain regions surrounding seizure-generating areas have reduced synchrony, a key finding in understanding epilepsy. The study suggests that this isolation could be used as a clinical biomarker to identify individuals with abnormal brain function.
The Mayo Clinic study found that more than half of children with cryptogenic epilepsy had a significantly better long-term outcome than those with symptomatic epilepsy. Approximately 68% of the cryptogenic group achieved seizure freedom compared to 46% in the symptomatic group.
A recent study published in Neurology found no significant difference in IQ scores between breastfed and non-breasted babies of mothers taking epilepsy drugs. The study, which followed 194 pregnant women taking one epilepsy drug, suggests that breastfeeding may not have a negative impact on cognitive skills.
A study found that breastfeeding does not harm a child's IQ when taking seizure medication, according to the American Academy of Neurology. The research followed 194 pregnant women and their 199 babies, with no significant difference in IQ scores between breastfed and non-breastfed children.
Researchers at Michigan State University have linked cerebral malaria to epilepsy and behavioral disorders in African children, affecting hundreds of thousands. The study reveals that acute seizures and extreme fevers are key risk factors for these disorders.
A large population-based study revealed that exposure to multiple antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) used by pregnant women to control seizures may cause poor school performance in their teenagers. The study found children exposed to two or more AEDs had an increased risk of not receiving a final grade upon completion of schooling.
Researchers have found that brain damage continues to develop and evolve after traumatic brain injury, offering a potential target for treatments. The study, published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine, provides new insights into progressive changes in brain structure and function after injury.
Researchers demonstrate that individuals can intentionally alter the firing rate of specific neurons in the brain, increasing some while decreasing others. This control is achieved through focusing thoughts on particular images displayed on a computer screen.
A new computer program helps researchers map brain connectivity in children and adults, showing how white matter improves with age. The tool may aid epilepsy and schizophrenia research, and inform brain surgeons about potential surgical sites.
A new study found that statin use reduces the risk of developing epilepsy in people over 65 with cardiovascular disease. The study showed a 35% lower risk of hospitalization for epilepsy among those taking statins compared to non-users.
A dozen new epilepsy drugs are now available, offering more treatment options for patients. However, this increased choice also complicates treatment decisions for clinicians.
A recent study found that women with epilepsy are more likely to experience infertility compared to the general population, particularly those taking multiple epilepsy drugs. The study also revealed that older women and those with less than 10 years of education were more likely to experience infertility.
A recent study found nearly 50% of pharmacies in Zambia do not carry antiepileptic drugs, hindering efforts to treat the condition. The lack of affordable treatment options is attributed to cost, regulatory issues, and logistics challenges.
Researchers found that rufinamide significantly reduced total partial seizure frequency compared to placebo, with a notable 50% reduction in responder rate and total partial seizure frequency. The study also showed efficacy for complex partial seizures, simple partial seizures, and secondarily generalized partial seizures.
An Australian study discovered a rare genetic form of epilepsy can originate from an embryonic genetic mutation, challenging previous assumptions about its inheritance. Researchers believe this finding may have implications for siblings of individuals with other genetic diseases that could be caused by an embryo mutation.
A special issue of Neurologic Clinics details latest advances in treating neurologic disorders such as stroke, epilepsy, and sleep disorders. The issue includes treatments for Parkinson's disease and headaches, as well as new medications for epilepsy.
The US Neurology guidelines provide a framework for diagnosing and treating infantile spasms, with a focus on early intervention and personalized treatment strategies. The consensus among experts is that broad clinical evaluation, vigabatrin or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) as first-line treatment, and timely assessment of treatme...
The European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) has published four position statements on common management problems in the post-reproductive health of women. The statements cover the management of menopause in the context of obesity, epilepsy, endometriosis, and premature ovarian failure.
A study found that valproate reduces collagen production by almost 60% and osteonectin levels by 28% in SMA cells, contributing to bone loss in these patients.
Researchers identify an ancient gene family regulating nerve excitability in the brain, which may contribute to epileptic seizures. Studies on mice suggest that activating this potassium channel can block seizures, opening up potential new drug targets with fewer side effects.
A new study found that newer epilepsy drugs with a higher risk of depression, such as levetiracetam and topiramate, were associated with an increased risk of self-harm or suicidal behavior among people with epilepsy. In contrast, older drugs did not show this increased risk.