Articles tagged with Seizures
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.
Researchers at Rutgers University have identified P75 as a likely culprit in post-seizure brain cell death, which can benefit people with epilepsy and those suffering from traumatic brain injuries and strokes. The study aims to prevent cell death by testing molecules that block the P75 receptor.
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.
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 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.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital and Brown University found that seizures begin with diverse neuronal activity, rather than synchronized activity. The researchers observed pre-seizure changes in neuronal activity and detected changes before seizures began in most patients.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 discovered that removing ZIP proteins protects brain cells from seizures and other insults. Zinc enters cells through ZIP transporters, and its removal is an effective way to protect memory circuits.
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.
Neurological complications after heart surgery are common, affecting central and peripheral nervous systems, according to a study published in Hospital Practice. Complications can include strokes, seizures, delirium, and medication toxicity, highlighting the need for prompt identification and optimal management.
A study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2010 found that a minimally invasive procedure is a safe alternative to traditional surgery for treating congenital heart defects. The procedure, known as transcatheter closure, was associated with a 62% reduced risk of neurological events.
More than 1,069 tigers have been seized in tiger range countries over the past decade, with India leading the way. The seizures highlight severe poaching pressure on Indian tigers, with potentially more than 100 wild tigers being plundered each year.
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 study published in Neurology found decreased levels of BDNF in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and epileptic seizures, potentially identifying a biomarker for PNES. The study also suggests that stress may be a common underlying factor in both conditions.
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.
A recent study found that the 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) caused a higher rate of neurological complications in children than the seasonal flu. The most common complications observed were seizures and encephalopathy.
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.
Researchers found that 44% of veterans with a traumatic brain injury developed post-traumatic epilepsy, and in some cases, seizures didn't appear until over 14 years after the injury. The study strongly suggests that veterans with brain injuries will require long-term neurology care.
New data demonstrate Vimpat (lacosamide) C-V's sustained efficacy in reducing seizure frequency and improving responder rates when added to a broad range of antiepileptic drugs. Long-term results show improved seizure control for up to 5 years, with median percent reductions in seizure frequency ranging from 45.5% to 71.8%.
A Kaiser Permanente study found the MMRV vaccine doubles the risk of febrile seizures in 1- to 2-year-old children compared to separate MMR and varicella vaccines. The study analyzed 459,000 children and recommended that families without a preference for MMRV receive separate vaccinations.
UCB has announced an oral solution formulation of Vimpat (lacosamide) C-V, expanding treatment options for people with epilepsy. The new formulation is available in three forms, including oral solution and IV injection, allowing patients to maintain consistent treatment across various clinical settings.
A new study found that improved treatment of severe epilepsy could significantly reduce the overall cost of the condition. The study analyzed data from 9,163 epilepsy patients and found that non-AED related costs increased disproportionately with disease severity, while AED-related costs remained stable.
A Johns Hopkins study found that nearly 40% of children with infantile spasms became seizure-free after being on the high-fat ketogenic diet for at least six months. The diet, which is rich in fat and low in carbohydrates, works by triggering biochemical changes that eliminate seizure-causing short circuits in the brain.
A new study from UCLA's Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program found significant improvements in surgical outcomes for pediatric epilepsy patients over the past two decades. The researchers attribute the success to advancements in diagnostic technology and experience in selection and operations.
A retrospective study found that vaccination is associated with earlier onset of seizures in children with Dravet syndrome, but does not affect the clinical outcome. The study analyzed 40 patients and found no difference in intellectual outcome or subsequent seizure type between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups.
A new report concludes that Ginkgo herbal medicines can increase the risk of seizures in people with epilepsy and reduce the effectiveness of anti-seizure drugs. The herb's potentially toxic material, ginkgotoxin, may alter a chemical signaling pathway that triggers epileptic seizures.
Neurocysticercosis, a tapeworm brain infection, is increasing in Mexico and bordering southwestern US states, affecting up to 10% of the population. The infection can cause severe symptoms like seizures, headaches, and encephalitis, highlighting the need for proper evaluation and management.
A study reveals that early activation of astroglia in focal epilepsy drives neurons to generate epileptic discharges. This neuron-astrocyte interaction may represent a novel target for controlling epilepsy.
A national study by Queen's University researchers has found a strong correlation between Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and a high prevalence of epilepsy. Six percent of participants had epilepsy, while twelve percent experienced one or more seizures in their lifetimes.
Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are at a high risk of developing epilepsy or seizure history, according to a new study. Researchers found that six percent of individuals with FASD developed epilepsy and 12 percent had one or more seizures in their life.
A recent study found that deep brain stimulation significantly reduced seizure frequency in patients with refractory partial and secondarily generalized seizures, with a 56% reduction in seizure frequency by 2 years. The benefits of stimulation persisted long-term, with improved responder rates.
A Phase III clinical study published online in Epilepsia found that Vimpat (lacosamide) demonstrated significantly fewer partial-onset seizures versus placebo in adults living with epilepsy. The study showed that patients taking Vimpat had greater reductions in seizure frequency and a higher 50% responder rate compared to placebo.
Researchers found that lacosamide 400 mg/day provides good efficacy and tolerability for patients with uncontrolled partial-onset seizures, while higher doses may provide additional benefits. The study confirms the safety and effectiveness of adjunctive lacosamide treatment in reducing seizure frequency and severity.
Dolphins' health is shedding light on human and ocean health. Researchers have discovered that diseases found in dolphins are similar to human diseases, providing clues into how human health might be affected by contaminated coastal water or seafood. High levels of PCBs in dolphins may be suppressing their immune function.
A study by researchers at the University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Institute supports the use of Keppra as an alternative to Dilantin for preventing seizures in patients after a brain injury. Patients treated with Keppra had fewer side effects and better long-term outcomes compared to those receiving Dilantin.
A recent study at Johns Hopkins Children's Center found that a high-fat ketogenic diet is both effective and safe for controlling seizures in the long term. The diet, which consists of high-fat foods and very few carbohydrates, has been shown to reduce seizure frequency by nearly 80% in patients treated for a minimum of 16 months.
A study found that medical dramas and reality TV shows responded inappropriately to seizures nearly half the time, with improper practices occurring in 25 cases. The American Academy of Neurology urges the TV industry to adhere to seizure management guidelines.
Researchers at UCLA's Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program have found that a non-invasive approach to pre-surgical testing, combined with earlier consideration for surgery, is associated with the best seizure-free surgical outcome in patients with TSC. Approximately two-thirds of TSC patients became seizure-free after surgery.
Researchers identify key molecular switches controlling GABA transport, which could prevent seizure onset. The study uses C. elegans worms to reveal genetic factors contributing to epilepsy susceptibility.
The pivotal trial data demonstrate that the RNS System significantly reduced seizure frequency among people with medically intractable partial onset epilepsy. The device delivered brief and mild electrical stimulations to suppress seizures, with a mean percentage reduction of 29% in disabling seizures.
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.
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 that increased calcium current density occurs before seizure onset, and remains elevated during seizure susceptibility periods.
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.
A study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children reveals that newborn seizures often do not produce visible convulsions due to the brain's immature response to GABA. Treatment with a new medication, bumetanide, successfully suppressed seizure activity in both cortical and subcortical regions.
UCSF researchers have successfully restored the missing protein calpain degrades LIS1 protein to near-normal levels in mice with the mouse-model of this defect. The team gave daily injections of a calpain inhibitor to pregnant mice whose fetuses had the mouse-model, resulting in more normal brains and no sign of mental retardation.
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 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.
A daily supplement of potassium citrate has been found to prevent kidney stones in children on the high-fat ketogenic diet, a common treatment for epilepsy. The study, published in Pediatrics, showed that those who received potassium citrate twice daily were seven times less likely to develop kidney stones.
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 discovered a drug that blocks transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) receptors can prevent brain changes associated with epilepsy in rats. This treatment halts hyper-excitability and prevents gene expression changes, offering hope for preventing epilepsy in humans after severe brain injury.
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.