Articles tagged with Epilepsy
A global consensus definition of refractory epilepsy has been developed to aid better care for patients caught in the treatment gap. The definition highlights the need for state-of-the-art care for millions of people with epilepsy worldwide, who are currently not receiving adequate treatment.
Scientists have recorded spontaneous epileptic activity in human brain tissue for the first time, revealing that electrical connections between nerve cells cause the disease. This discovery offers real hope for finding new treatments for epilepsy, which affects 45 million people worldwide.
A recent study published in Epilepsia found that current cigarette smokers are at a significant risk of seizure. The study analyzed data from over 116,000 female nurses and found that long-term moderate caffeine or alcohol use is not associated with an increased risk of seizures or epilepsy.
Researchers found a gene deletion in chromosome 15 associated with significant learning and behavioral problems, including developmental delay, mental retardation, and epilepsy. The study suggests that the nicotinic receptor plays a crucial role in these conditions.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified a potassium channel KvLQT as the molecular trigger for sudden death in epilepsy. This discovery could lead to a simple genetic screening test to identify patients at risk, offering effective treatments such as beta blockers and cardiac pacemakers.
A Duke University researcher has discovered a receptor that receives messages from astrocytes, which can form excitatory synapses in the brain. The discovery may explain why people develop epilepsy or have neuropathic pain, and could lead to new therapies for these conditions.
Packages of care aim to improve epilepsy recognition and management, closing the 'treatment gap' in LMICs. Epilepsy affects 65 million people worldwide, with limited access to effective treatment.
Studies suggest that routine stroke prevention therapies could be highly effective in the very elderly population. Meanwhile, research on epilepsy in later life is needed to improve treatment and prognosis for this growing demographic.
Researchers at the University of Utah Health have discovered a gene mutation that causes severe epilepsy and febrile seizures in some infants. The SCN9A gene mutation can alter sodium channel function in the brain, leading to seizures, and may be responsible for up to 5% of febrile syndrome patients.
Children with microcephaly are at risk of neurologic and cognitive problems, including epilepsy, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and eye and ear disorders. Doctors recommend screening for coexisting conditions, brain scans, and genetic testing to identify the causes of microcephaly.
Researchers found that similar symptoms occur in many systems as they approach a critical state of transition, indicating 'tipping points' for abrupt changes. These early-warning signals are observed in ecosystems, financial markets, and human physiology, highlighting the potential for catastrophic bifurcations.
A study found that 1 in 8 patients thought to have epilepsy or unsure diagnosis actually had a heart rhythm issue causing fainting. Eighty percent of those who underwent pacemaker insertion were symptom-free after 9 months.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered a genetic link between childhood brain development and adult-onset epilepsy, highlighting the fragility of the brain during early childhood. The study identifies a new pathway controlling neuron circuit maturation, which may lead to new therapies for this condition.
A study published in Neurology found that children with normal IQs before a first seizure may experience language, memory, learning and other cognitive skills problems. Children who took epilepsy drugs had difficulties in processing speed, verbal memory, and learning.
A study found that women with epilepsy who experience seizures during pregnancy are more likely to give birth to pre-term and small babies than those without epilepsy. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 women with epilepsy and found a significant association between seizure activity and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have successfully prevented epilepsy in mice by identifying a faulty gene as the cause. The study, published in PNAS, offers irrefutable proof that a defective version of the Atp1a3 gene is responsible for causing epileptic seizures in mice.
Researchers have devised a chemical technique to discover brain function and provide clues for treating brain diseases. The technique allows neuroscientists to noninvasively activate entire populations of neurons in an animal brain, promoting understanding of brain function and disease treatment.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified a single gene mutation responsible for catastrophic epilepsy, a condition marked by severe muscle spasms, persistent seizures, and mental retardation. The discovery provides a new model for studying the disease and has sparked hope for potential treatments.
A CU-Boulder study found that chemicals released by the brain's immune system can cause chronic seizures in people who have suffered a traumatic head injury. The research suggests that temporarily shutting down the immune response could prevent the development of acquired epilepsy.
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered a potential new treatment for childhood epilepsy, using the therapeutic drug rapamycin to suppress epileptic seizures in mice. The study, published in Disease Models and Mechanisms, shows promise for treating cortical dysplasia, a common cause of childhood epilepsy.
Researchers at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre have developed a new surgical technique to treat refractory epilepsy, with nine patients showing successful results. The innovative approach reduces risks and complications associated with previous insular surgeries.
Researchers developed genetically engineered mice that experience seizures resembling those in patients with infantile spasms. The discovery provides a new opportunity to test treatments that may benefit children with this difficult-to-treat form of childhood epilepsy.
A new brain-scanning process developed by University of Minnesota researcher Bin He holds promise for epilepsy treatment advancements. The technique uses functional neuroimaging to identify seizure foci and aid surgeons in pinpointing the brain network affected by seizures.
Researchers identified a new anticonvulsant compound that eliminates seizures in a model of epilepsy by inhibiting ion channels associated with the disease. The study found that blocking these channels can prevent subsequent seizures, offering a promising treatment for epilepsy.
Studies found that employees with epilepsy cost third-party payors nearly three times more on average per year compared to those without the condition. Comorbidities accounted for 80% of insurers' total annual costs for epilepsy patients.
A new study analyzed dialogue between neurologists and epilepsy patients, revealing significant gaps in communication. Discussions of mood- and behavior-related topics occurred in only 22% of visits, while 57% of patients reported issues post-visit that physicians were not aware of.
A new treatment has been discovered for restless legs syndrome (RLS) that improves sleep. Pregabalin, a commonly used epilepsy and anxiety medication, was found to be effective in reducing RLS symptoms by nearly two-thirds of participants. The study showed significant improvements in deep sleep stages compared to those taking a placebo.
New American Academy of Neurology and American Epilepsy Society guidelines suggest pregnant women with epilepsy consider avoiding valproate, a drug linked to increased fetal malformations and decreased thinking skills. The guidelines recommend regular blood testing to adjust medication doses.
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that a specific gene can be 'switched on' in animals without a genetic predisposition to epilepsy, leading to changes in calcium channels and brain activity. This discovery may reveal a new mechanism for how epilepsy develops in some individuals.
Researchers at Cardiff University have identified a key molecule involved in Lithium's action on the brain. Increasing IMPase levels can lead to higher PIP3 production, which is reduced by Lithium treatment.
Researchers found that cognitive behavioral therapy can reduce the frequency of seizures in patients with PNES, improving their overall quality of life. The study also showed significant improvement in depression, anxiety, and psychosocial functioning.
A landmark study found that three-year-olds exposed to valproate during pregnancy had average IQs six to nine points lower than those exposed to other antiepileptic drugs. The study recommends women with epilepsy try alternative treatments before taking valproate.
A new study published in Epilepsia reveals that surgery for babies and toddlers suffering from epilepsy is relatively safe and effective in controlling seizures. Early surgery may also have a positive impact on brain development.
Researchers found two widely-prescribed anticonvulsants may lead to increased cholesterol, C-reactive protein and other markers of cardiovascular disease. Switching patients to newer drugs resulted in significant declines in these markers.
A study published in Epilepsia finds that individuals with epilepsy are at a higher risk of depression, with racial minorities having seven times the odds of depression compared to Caucasians. The study suggests routine screening and targeted interventions for depression are needed to help serve those with epilepsy.
Severe pediatric epilepsy is generated from within the memory-forming hippocampus, according to a study by UC San Diego researchers. The discovery could pave the way for improved treatments of childhood epilepsy, which affects over two percent of children worldwide.
A new paper suggests that four specific processes occur only in conscious perception tasks, offering a unique insight into the neural correlates of consciousness. By studying brain activity of patients with epilepsy, researchers isolated four converging electrophysiological markers characterizing conscious access after word perception.
A study of over 1.6 million young people in Denmark found that traumatic brain injury significantly increases the risk of epilepsy, with risks persisting for more than a decade after the injury. The risk is particularly high for those with severe brain injuries or family histories of epilepsy.
Researchers have identified a new gene, ELP4, linked to Rolandic epilepsy, a common form of childhood epilepsy. The discovery supports a new theory about the causes of epilepsy and offers insights into other cognitive and behavioral disorders such as ADHD, speech dyspraxia, and DCD.
A Phase III clinical study published online in Epilepsia found that Vimpat significantly reduced seizure frequency per 28 days from baseline compared to placebo. The study demonstrated efficacy in patients with uncontrolled partial-onset seizures, with higher rates of seizure reduction and complete seizure freedom among those receiving...
A new study from Tel Aviv University found that occupational stress has no effect on epilepsy attacks, with a large sample size allowing for high predictive power. The research benefits those who have been seizure-free for a long period of time, showing they are likely to stay seizure-free.
Studies show Keppra XR reduces nervous system side effects compared to levetiracetam immediate release, and a new dosing schedule may offer improved tolerability. The once-daily formulation also demonstrates bioequivalence in healthy adults.
Scientists present reports on novel technologies to restore memory circuits, alter drug effects, deliver targeted therapies and improve brain imaging. The advancements aim to pinpoint seizure causes and deliver precise treatments, promising a new era in epilepsy care.
The report proposes detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic tests as essential steps in diagnosing and treating epilepsy. The consensus also outlines the need for weight seizure control, side effects, and long-term safety when making treatment decisions.
Researchers at Rice University have identified a potential connection between glutamate and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) in the development of neurological disorders. A mutation in a glutamate receptor gene found in both fruit flies and humans can disrupt regulatory mechanisms, leading to increased neuronal excitability.
A Mayo Clinic study found that withdrawing anti-seizure medication in children with epilepsy who have achieved seizure-freedom is generally safe and carries a low risk of developing intractable epilepsy. The study, which reviewed records of 241 children, found only 5% to develop intractable epilepsy after withdrawal.
Dr. Scott Mintzer has received a $843,000 NIH grant to investigate the cardiovascular side effects of anti-seizure medications in patients with epilepsy and subarachnoid hemorrhage. The study aims to improve treatment outcomes while minimizing potential risks.
Researchers at University of British Columbia have identified hemichannels as a potential target for treating epileptic seizures caused by brain trauma or stroke. Blocking these channels may lead to the development of new therapies for epilepsy patients.
Analysis suggests that anterior temporal lobe resection can increase life expectancy by 5.0 years and quality-adjusted life expectancy by 7.5 years for patients with medication-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy. Early surgical treatment is crucial, especially for younger patients, to reverse associated severe disabilities.
A new study published in Neurology suggests that women who take valproate during pregnancy may significantly increase their child's risk of developing autism. The research found that children exposed to valproate were seven times more likely to develop autism than those not exposed.
Researchers found a new gene, PRICKLE1, linked to a specific type of epilepsy. The study involved international collaboration and led to the development of animal models to investigate its role in the disease.
A new study by UC Davis researchers suggests that drops in blood oxygen levels may contribute to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) patients. Seizures in the temporal lobe and low oxygen levels during episodes are more common in males than females.
Researchers found BDNF-induced activation of JAK/STAT pathway is crucial for temporal lobe epilepsy development in adult rats. This pathway is also implicated in inflammatory diseases.
The Rett Syndrome Research Trust aims to bring novel therapeutics addressing the underlying MECP2 pathology to clinical trials within five years. Classic Rett Syndrome affects females almost exclusively, causing severe physical disability and requiring total care.
A recent study found that 3T MRI is better at detecting and characterizing structural brain abnormalities in patients with focal epilepsy than 1.5T MRI, leading to a better diagnosis and safer treatment options. This improvement was seen in the detection of lesions and accurate characterization of abnormalities.
A recent study published in Neurology found that people with epilepsy have a significantly higher risk of drowning compared to the general population. The study, which analyzed data from over 200,000 patient-years, found that individuals with epilepsy were 15-19 times more likely to die by drowning.
A systematic review of antiepileptic drugs found that children with drug-resistant partial epilepsy have a greater response to placebo treatments compared to adults. This suggests that clinical trials in children require careful design and reporting to provide valid results.
A study found that taking topiramate alone or with other epilepsy drugs during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects, particularly cleft palates and genital birth defects. The study suggests monitoring pregnancies of women exposed to topiramate.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have found genetic mutations linked to rare familial hemiplegic migraine type-3 that alter sodium channel function in the brain. These mutations may prompt migraines and suggest medications targeting sodium channels as potential treatments.
A team of Australian researchers has received funding to develop new treatments for epilepsy, with a focus on compounds that block brain cell communication. The project aims to create effective therapies for the one-third of epilepsy patients who do not respond to current treatments.