Articles tagged with Epilepsy
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The ketogenic diet has been found to enhance brain energy production and increase neuron stability, leading to improved resistance to seizures. Researchers discovered that the diet's effects on gene expression and mitochondrial function contribute to its anticonvulsant properties.
The Medicare elimination of essential drugs will have a significant impact on 24% of elderly recipients, who will lose coverage for essential medications like benzodiazepines. This could lead to withdrawal reactions, emergency department visits, and hospital admissions.
A study found a surprising link between depression, suicide, and epilepsy, with people with epilepsy being 4 times more likely to have attempted suicide before having a seizure. Depression was also found to increase the risk of developing epilepsy.
The Epilepsy Foundation calls on women of childbearing age to assess their medication treatment for risk of birth defects caused by anticonvulsants. The organization provides guidance and resources to empower women to make informed decisions about their health.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new lithium battery technology that can make batteries smaller, last longer, and accept external charging without surgery. This breakthrough technology uses organosilicon compounds to improve battery lifespan, enabling implantable devices such as pacemakers and microst...
Researchers have found that a marker for serotonin systems can identify epilepsy-generating brain areas, even in patients with normal MRI scans. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce the need for invasive EEG studies and improve surgical outcomes for patients with uncontrolled seizures.
Kids aged 7-19 are at higher risk of visually induced seizures while watching TV or playing videogames. The Epilepsy Foundation recommends adjusting technical parameters to reduce the risk, and provides guidance for parents on how to minimize exposure.
A long-term study found that 3.1% of people who suffered a stroke developed epilepsy. Those with severe strokes had five times the risk compared to those with less severe strokes. New treatments and improved care may reduce the frequency of post-stroke epilepsy.
Researchers found that astrocytes can generate seizure activity by releasing the brain chemical glutamate, which hypes up neurons and causes them to fire uncontrollably. This discovery offers new hope for treating epilepsy by targeting overlooked brain cells instead of just reducing brain function.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a heat spreader that uses phase-change heat process to cool the brain during epileptic seizures. The device, implanted on the neocortex, cools the brain from 38°C to 20°C to render it seizure-free.
Researchers found that cerebral palsy was more likely to occur in infants who had no symptoms early in life and sustained injury to deep structures of the brain. The study included over 199,000 children born between 1997 and 2002 and reported a higher rate of significant long-term neurologic impairment.
Animal research suggests a potential new treatment target for epilepsy by blocking a specific brain pathway involved in seizure spread. The treatment could be more effective and have fewer side effects than current therapies.
A study evaluated the effect of fMRI results on diagnostic work-up and treatment planning for 60 consecutive seizure disorder patients. The findings helped five patients avoid additional surgery, altering the extent of surgery in four others. This non-invasive test improved surgical decision making for epilepsy patients.
A study found that 50% of patients who underwent temporal lobectomy for epilepsy were seizure-free after 30 years. Patients who experienced seizures within the first year after surgery had a lower likelihood of being seizure-free in the long term.
A recent study published in The Lancet suggests that early treatment with antiepileptic drugs may not provide significant long-term benefits for patients with infrequent seizures. In fact, the trial found that delayed medication did not increase the risk of chronic epilepsy or improve quality of life.
Researchers created rat pups with subtle cortical malformations and found that they developed temporal lobe epilepsy after experiencing prolonged fever-related seizures. The study suggests that early identification of children with atypical febrile seizures could lead to neuroprotective treatments to prevent later epilepsy.
Lafora disease is characterized by abnormal glycogen metabolism, with the accumulation of starch-/glycogen-like granules in most tissues. Researchers at UCSD have identified malin's role in the disease, revealing a testable model for its molecular mechanism.
Researchers have developed a mathematical way to translate brain wave readings into simple terms to help doctors identify newborns at risk for epilepsy. The new tool uses quantitative EEG analysis to pinpoint abnormal brain activity in real-time.
Ivan Soltesz, a UCI neurobiologist, received the Senator Jacob Javits Award in the Neurosciences to investigate post-traumatic epilepsy research. The $2.7 million grant aims to develop new anti-epileptic treatment strategies for people who have recovered from severe head trauma.
Researchers developed algorithms to analyze data in MCOs, helping administrators identify patients with epilepsy and improve quality of life. Mortality rates are significantly higher for individuals with epilepsy, highlighting the need for accurate identification and targeted interventions.
Women with active epilepsy can have a healthy child if they continue treatment, but the risk of birth defects varies depending on the medication. The importance of individualized counseling and maintaining seizure control is emphasized to balance treatment effectiveness and potential risks.
Researchers found that children aged 3-7 years old who underwent epilepsy surgery experienced significant improvements in development, with 82% showing stable gains and three children gaining over 15 points in IQ. Seizure-free outcomes were linked to better cognitive function 2-3 years post-surgery.
A study of 387 patients with epilepsy found that the timing of post-surgery seizures is a key predictor of long-term success. Patients who experienced seizures within four months of surgery had a worse prognosis, while those who waited longer tended to become seizure-free.
Rufinamide shows promise in reducing seizures for patients with treatment-resistant Lennox-Gastaut epilepsy. A new gene mutation in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and a common mutation in Parkinson's disease were also identified, offering potential new avenues for research.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon and University of Pittsburgh have created a new method to calculate the phase-resetting curve (PRC) of living neurons, which can help elucidate mechanisms for neural synchrony and study learning. The tool combines computational and experimental approaches to simplify complex dynamics of single neurons.
Researchers found that treating sleep disturbances in epileptic children improves their epilepsy, daytime behavior, concentration, and learning capacity. The study suggests that addressing underlying sleep disorders can have a significant impact on children's cognitive abilities.
Researchers found variants of genes involved in anti-epileptic drug metabolism to be associated with higher doses. This discovery could lead to personalized treatment plans and improved patient outcomes.
UC Berkeley researchers developed a mathematical model of the brain's electrical activity during seizures, which may aid in understanding and treating epilepsy. The model, compared with real-world data from electrodes implanted in a patient, suggests that strong coherent waves of electrical activity are responsible for seizure spread.
Research suggests that people with a history of depression are at a higher risk of developing epilepsy, while those with epilepsy may be more likely to experience depression. Studies have found common biological mechanisms underlying both conditions, including abnormal neurotransmitter secretion patterns.
A review of nutritional modalities for treating epilepsy suggests that diets high in fat and polyunsaturated fatty acids may be effective in controlling seizures. The Atkins diet has shown promise as an easier-to-follow alternative to the ketogenic diet, although its success depends on implementation.
A study of 325 patients who underwent temporal lobe removal found that early seizures after surgery were eight times more likely to lead to persistent epilepsy. This suggests that some individuals may have epilepsy that is more persistent and resistant to treatment.
A random screening of 19 approved human medications revealed that anticonvulsants like ethosuximide and trimethadione increased lifespan in C. elegans worms by delaying age-related declines in neuro-muscular activity.
A new driving regulation in Japan allows people with epilepsy to obtain a driver's license after a seizure-free period of two years. The survey results highlighted the need for cooperation between authorities and the Japanese Epilepsy Society to further amend regulations and educate the public, patients, and professionals.
A new study suggests that implantable pacemakers could identify and prevent potentially fatal cardiac abnormalities in patients with epilepsy. The devices monitored heart rhythms during seizures, revealing that four patients had periods of asystole and received permanent pacemaker insertion.
A 30-year follow-up study of adults with epilepsy found that those on long-term medication had higher rates of unemployment and lower socioeconomic status. Despite being in remission, participants still taking antiepileptic drugs (AED) showed similar outcomes to those on medication.
A Mayo Clinic study found that patients with well-controlled epilepsy have a very low risk of injury from seizures. The study examined records of 247 patients and found that 80% of injuries were cuts or bruises that did not cause serious health consequences.
A study using antibody microarrays measured levels of over 500 proteins in tissue samples from patients with epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease, identifying increased signal transduction proteins as a possible new target for treatment. This discovery could lead to the development of new medications for these conditions.
Researchers found that switching from brand phenytoin to generic phenytoin can lead to increased seizures in epilepsy patients. Additionally, a study on concussion history and symptom reporting found that athletes with previous concussions reported fewer symptoms immediately after the injury but more symptoms one week later. The Americ...
Researchers discovered that patients with medically intractable epilepsy may develop new adult brain cells post-operatively. This cell generation could be the cause of recurring seizures and provide a potential target for future treatment and prevention strategies.
A new study by Mayo Clinic suggests that the ketogenic diet can be safely initiated as an outpatient treatment for children with epilepsy, offering improved acceptability and comfort. The study found no significant differences in long-term seizure control or mental improvement between inpatient and outpatient groups.
A recent study published in Epilepsia found that selective amygdalohippocampectomy (SAH) surgery can lead to verbal memory loss in patients, especially those who underwent left temporal lobe surgery. The study revealed that 30% to 50% of patients who underwent SAH on the left side showed no recovery of verbal memory after 12 months.
A study by Grant Butterbaugh and colleagues found that adult patients with left temporal lobe epilepsy were more likely to experience learning disabilities. The researchers suggest that medically treated but uncontrolled seizures in the language-dominant side of the brain may contribute to these findings.
Researchers identified a brain region that processes sound location and motion, with impaired function leading to 'cortical motion deafness'. The study provides evidence of an auditory motion module within the right posterior superior temporal gyrus.
A five-year head-to-head trial of three common anti-epileptic drugs will enroll 439 children aged two to 13. The study aims to determine the best initial medicine for childhood absence epilepsy, which affects 10-15% of all epilepsy cases in children.
A team of researchers led by Guy A. Caldwell found that worms with a mutated LIS1 gene experience convulsions similar to those in humans with lissencephaly, a rare birth defect. The study reveals the mutated protein's impact on neuronal trafficking and neurotransmitter release, providing insights into the complexities of epilepsy.
A team of researchers found that impaired Kv4.2 ion channels in neurons can lead to increased excitability and seizure frequency in epilepsy. Inhibiting the ERK enzyme may provide a new therapeutic target for treating this condition.
Researchers developed a new approach to interpreting brain electroencephalograms that provides an unprecedented view of thought in action. The technique uses Independent Component Analysis to separate signals from different areas of the brain, enabling detailed insights into neural dynamics.
A study of 6,044 women aged 65 and older found that those taking epilepsy drugs lost bone mass at nearly twice the rate of non-users. This increases the risk of hip fractures by 29% over five years. Researchers recommend screening for osteoporosis and counseling on calcium and vitamin D supplements.
Scientists discovered that deleting three circadian genes in mice results in severe epilepsy and accelerated aging. The mice lacking all three genes are prone to epileptic seizures and display early mortality, with a significant increase in deaths on Mondays and Thursdays due to sound-induced attacks.
Fetal imaging technologies like DTI and fMRI enable early diagnosis and treatment of brain abnormalities, improving outcomes for patients with epilepsy, autism, and Alzheimer's. Researchers presented advancements in detecting seizure origins and understanding autistic brain function through innovative imaging techniques.
Recent studies on marijuana use among multiple sclerosis and epilepsy patients have yielded mixed results, highlighting the need for further research to determine its efficacy. Patients reported using marijuana therapeutically to manage pain, spasms, mood, sleep, and stress, but also experienced side effects and variable doses.
Researchers analyzed 770 seizure records to investigate the possible link between lunar phases and frequency of epileptic seizures. The study found that epileptic seizures were lowest during the full moon and highest in its last quarter.
The American Academy of Neurology has released a guideline evaluating the treatment of infantile spasms, a severe form of epilepsy. The guideline recommends adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) as a short-term treatment option, but notes that there is insufficient evidence to recommend optimum dosage and length of treatment.
Research highlights disparities in stroke risk among Mexican-Americans and findings on treatment advancements for conditions like sickle cell disease and epilepsy. Studies also explore dementia prevalence in HIV-infected populations and the impact of diabetes and military service on neurological diseases.
The guidelines provide a rigorous analysis of the safety, efficacy, and mode of use of new antiepileptic drugs, offering clinicians evidence-based assessments for treatment decisions. The guidelines address concerns about side effects and liver metabolism, providing guidance on using newer drugs safely and effectively.
Researchers studied 87 women with epilepsy and found that nearly 40% experience catamential patterns where seizures fluctuate with menstrual cycles. Progesterone lozenges may help reduce seizure frequency and severity during monthly hormonal changes.
A five-year study found that four commonly prescribed antiepileptic drugs were associated with varying levels of birth defects, developmental disabilities, and death in children. The study revealed that lamotrigine may cause less harm compared to other medications, while valproate posed the highest risk.
Patients with uncontrolled epilepsy have significantly lower levels of DHA in their red blood cell membranes compared to healthy individuals. This deficiency may contribute to seizure severity and inform potential treatment strategies involving DHA supplementation.
Surgery for medically intractable temporal lobe epilepsy shows variation among ethnic groups, with African Americans receiving surgery at significantly lower rates than non-Hispanic whites. The study suggests that racial disparities exist but do not appear to be related to differences in access to care.
A novel mutation in the SCN1A gene has been discovered in a family with generalized epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+), a condition characterized by unusual brain activity. This finding may lead to improved diagnoses, treatments, and genetic counseling for affected individuals.