For children who are undergoing evaluation for surgery to treat epilepsy at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the Wada test, also known as the intracarotid amobarbital procedure, can be an important step in the process. During this test, doctors put certain areas of the brain to sleep to help pinpoint which areas correspond to the patient’s language and memory.
Tag: Epilepsy
Astrocytes and epilepsy: Dr. Peter Bedner
Previously thought to be mere connective tissue and support for neurons, astrocytes are now understood to have many functions in the nervous system that are linked with seizures and epilepsy.
Seizure action plans as educational tools in epilepsy: Dr. Lucretia Long
Seizure action plans often are aimed at a subset of people with epilepsy, particularly children. Dr. Lucretia Long discusses how these plans can be used to engage and educate people with epilepsy, their families, and the larger community.
Dos regiones de ILAE colaboran en una exitosa serie de seminarios web con impacto profesional
Los seminarios web cooperativos se lanzaron en junio de 2021 en dos idiomas: francés e inglés. Los beneficios de la empresa cooperativa se extendieron mucho más allá de lo que esperaban los organizadores.
New Model Identifies Best Candidates for Epilepsy Surgery
A simple scoring system from Rutgers Health experts and others predicts outcomes of minimally invasive procedures, potentially expanding treatment options.
The epileptic heart: Seizures, epilepsy, and cardiac risk factors
Studies suggest that compared with the general population, people with chronic epilepsy have three times the risk of sudden cardiac death. Researchers have introduced the concept of the “epileptic heart” as “a heart and coronary vasculature damaged by chronic epilepsy… leading to electrical and mechanical dysfunction.”
The bumpy road from pediatric to adult epilepsy care: Dr. Danielle Andrade
The shift from pediatric to adult epilepsy care can be complex. A recent survey of young people with epilepsy found that 25% still saw pediatric neurologists for their epilepsy care. Only 4% said they received clear instructions during the transition process.
Two-stage computer algorithm will detect epilepsy with high precision
Scientists elaborated algorithm that much better detects epilepsy on EEG recordings, than other automated methods. To achieve this, authors combined two approaches to analysis of signals of brain activity – classifier, that doesn’t require education, and trainable neural network. The project will enable to automate analysis of EEG and so simplify the process of detecting of epilepsy. Results of the research, supported by the grant of Presidential program of Russian Scientific Foundation, are published in the magazine IEEE Access.
La neurocisticercosis como principal causa de epilepsia: un diagnóstico erróneo que debe evitarse
La afirmación de que “la neurocisticercosis (NCC) es una de las causas más comunes de epilepsia en todo el mundo” no solo es incorrecta, sino también potencialmente engañosa para los lectores que no están familiarizados con la epidemiología de la epilepsia.
Au volant : Conduire avec l’épilepsie
Pour les personnes atteintes d’épilepsie, la capacité de conduire figure parmi leurs principales préoccupations. Les réglementations varient d’un pays à l’autre. Bon nombre d’entre eux ont des restrictions sur la conduite pour les personnes atteintes d’épilepsie, mais certains n’ont pas de politique.
Investigating pediatric epilepsy in Nigeria: Dr. Edwin Trevathan
In northern Nigeria, more people need epilepsy treatment than traditional medical care can support. Dr. Edwin Trevathan discusses projects aimed at identifying children with undiagnosed epilepsy and improving access to care, as well as research to better understand the risks and prognosis of pediatric status epilepticus.
First patient in Texas, Southeast US, enrolled at UTHealth Houston for study of neural cell therapy product to treat epilepsy
UTHealth Houston has enrolled the first patient in the Southeastern United States into a national Phase I/II clinical trial testing whether a neural cell therapy product can help inhibit the abnormal electrical activity that leads to an epileptic seizure.
Consensus recommendations for epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia (Jeavons syndrome): Dr. Kelsey Smith
A recent publication outlines consensus recommendations on several aspects of managing epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia, also known as Jeavons syndrome. What are the most effective first-line medications? Are there non-pharmacologic treatment options? Can people with this type of epilepsy drive safely? Dr. Alina Ivaniuk talks to the paper’s first author, Dr. Kelsey Smith.
How Is Care Changing for Kids With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex?
This spring, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles became one of just 15 pediatric hospitals in the country to be designated as a TSC Alliance Center of Excellence—demonstrating the highest level of comprehensive services for diagnosing and managing tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). CHLA sees more than 120 young patients a year with TSC.
Patterns of Intelligence
The coordinated activity of brain cells, like birds flying in formation, helps us behave intelligently in new situations, according to a study led by Cedars-Sinai investigators.
Outcomes in developmental and epileptic encephalopathies: Managing more than seizures – Dr. Scott Demarest
Besides seizures, people with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies can experience a wide variety of symptoms, including sleep problems, vision problems, and behavioral issues. Dr. Scott Demarest discusses how neurologists may be able to address some of these issues, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life.
Éduquer les non-spécialistes au Mexique : un nouveau cours universitaire offre une expérience hybride
En raison du manque relatif de neurologues, la plupart des prestataires de soins de santé primaires en Amérique latine sont chargés de fournir des soins aux personnes atteintes d’épilepsie. Néanmoins, comme la plupart des professionnels de la santé primaires dans le monde, ces professionnels n’ont pas une formation suffisante pour gérer l’épilepsie. Un nouveau cursus universitaire vise à résoudre ce problème en formant les prestataires de soins de santé par le biais d’un programme structuré.
Investigación y financiación de la epilepsia en países de bajos recursos: cuestiones éticas y pasos hacia la equidad
Menos del 10% de la financiación de la investigación sobre la epilepsia se destina a la salud en los países de menores recursos, a pesar de que el 80% de las personas con epilepsia viven en estos países. La promoción de la investigación mundial sobre la epilepsia y la mejora de las vías de financiación tienen el potencial de aumentar la capacidad de investigación de los países de ingresos bajos y medianos y promover la equidad en la investigación de la epilepsia en todo el mundo.
Investigación sobre la epilepsia en áreas de bajos recursos: las complejidades de los datos y del consentimiento
Aunque el 80% de las personas con epilepsia viven en países de ingresos bajos y medianos, la mayoría de las investigaciones sobre la epilepsia se originan en regiones de ingresos altos.
MSU research: Patients value extended medical interventions – like EEG tests – beyond their clinical us
Electroencephalograms, or EEGs, are tests used to visualize brain activity and diagnose seizures in patients with epilepsy. Research from Michigan State University shows that while practitioners value EEGs for the information they provide, patients value EEGs in ways that far outweigh the test’s clinical utility to practitioners.
July 2024 Issue of Neurosurgical Focus: Video: “Epilepsy Surgery”
Announcement of contents of the July 2024 issue of Neurosurgical Focus: Video
Superar las barreras quirúrgicas en áreas de bajos recursos
Hasta la mitad de las personas con epilepsia resistente a los medicamentos (ERD) pueden beneficiarse de la cirugía. Sin embargo, en muchas regiones de bajos recursos, el establecimiento de un programa quirúrgico requiere enfrentar múltiples desafíos.
Breakthrough UC San Diego Brain Recording Device Receives FDA Approval for a Clinical Trial
The Federal Drug Administration approved a clinical trial to test the effectiveness of an electronic grid that records brain activity during surgery, developed by engineers at the University of California San Diego.
Super-Chilled Brain Cell Molecules Reveal How Epilepsy Drug Works
By super cooling a molecule on the surface of brain cells down to about minus 180 degrees Celsius — nearly twice as cold as the coldest places in Antarctica — scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine say they have determined how a widely-used epilepsy drug works to dampen the excitability of brain cells and help to control, although not cure, seizures.
June 2024 Issue of Neurosurgical Focus: “Spasticity and Other Movement Disorders”
Announcement of contents of the June 2024 issue of Neurosurgical Focus
American Association of Neurological Surgeons Names Aviva Abosch, MD, PhD, FAANS, as the Organization’s Secretary
Dr. Abosch assumes the role of secretary of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) for 2024-25.
Changing epilepsy care through entrepreneurship: Dr. Mark Cook
Dr. Cook realized, when his father was diagnosed with epilepsy, that a system to identify and predict seizures could improve care and change people’s lives. In this episode, Dr. Cook talks about entrepreneurship in epilepsy and advancing the field through innovation.
Welcome to a world where we can cure blindness, chronic pain and neurological diseases with 3D printed surgical implants
Clever bio-inks that sit inside the human body and restore damaged neurons could cure a whole swathe of diseases in the next 20 years: conditions that have baffled scientists and clinicians for centuries.
Scientists have mathematically simulated an epileptic seizure for the first time
Scientists at Immanuel Kant BFU have developed a mathematical model that describes human brain condition in epilepsy. The system reproduced changes in brain activity during a seizure, as well as taking into account multiple interactions among neurons and other brain cells.
A Flexible Microdisplay Can Monitor and Visualize Brain Activity in Real-time During Brain Surgery
A thin film that combines an electrode grid and LEDs can both track and produce a visual representation of the brain’s activity in real-time during surgery–a huge improvement over the current state of the art.
Educating non-specialists in Mexico: New university course offers hybrid experience
The involvement of primary healthcare providers in epilepsy care can translate to early intervention, education about the condition, and coordination of care. However, many primary healthcare providers do not have sufficient training to care for people with epilepsy, leading to gaps in diagnosis and treatment.
Educando a no especialistas en México: Nuevo curso universitario ofrece experiencia híbrida
Un nuevo curso acreditado sobre epilepsia está educando a una variedad de profesionales de la salud a través de un modelo híbrido. Impartido en español, el curso está atrayendo a médicos de atención primaria, neurólogos, neuropsicólogos y antropólogos.
Clinical neurophysiology training in epilepsy: The present and the future
EEG training varies across the globe; in many countries, there is no training. Dr. Bruna Nucera talks with Dr. Sandor Beniczky about the present and future of clinical neurophysiology training.
Après une chirurgie de l’épilepsie : gérer les attentes et les soins
Avant la chirurgie, les personnes atteintes d’épilepsie subissent une longue évaluation et des tests approfondis. Mais après une opération chirurgicale, certains professionnels et défenseurs affirment que les gens sont injustement laissés seuls pour gérer le traitement et les soins, sans beaucoup d’aide ou de conseils.
Neonatal seizures: Guidelines and consensus-based recommendations: Dr. Ronit Pressler
Seizures are different in newborns. Dr. Emma Carter speaks with Dr. Ronit Pressler about recent guidelines and recommendations for treating seizures in newborns and how they were established.
Behind the wheel: Navigating driving with epilepsy
For people with epilepsy, the inability to drive is often accompanied by frustration, loss of freedom, and increased dependence on others. Some countries ban people from driving for life, while others allow it after a specific amount of time passes without seizures.
JMIR Neurotechnology Invites Submissions on Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)
JMIR Publications is pleased to announce a new theme issue in JMIR Neurotechnology exploring brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that represent the transformative convergence of neuroscience, engineering, and technology.
UTHealth Houston named first-ever SCN2A Multidisciplinary Center by FamilieSCN2A Foundation
In recognition of its expertise in treating SCN2A-related neurological disorders, UTHealth Houston has been designated as the first SCN2A Multidisciplinary Center by the FamilieSCN2A Foundation, the largest global advocacy organization for the group of disorders.
Behind the wheel: Navigating driving with epilepsy
For people with epilepsy, driving is a top concern. The inability to drive often comes with frustration, a loss of freedom, and dependency on others. Regulations vary; some countries ban people with epilepsy from driving for life, while most require a specific seizure-free period.
“Talking about things that no one else will talk about”: Torie Robinson, host of Epilepsy Sparks Insights
Diagnosed with epilepsy at age 10, Torie Robinson uses her podcast to share knowledge with people with epilepsy, their families, and the public. Her episode topics range from the biochemistry of epilepsy to gastrointestinal issues and much, much more.
Book review: The Idea of Epilepsy by Simon Shorvon
In a detailed, comprehensive, and scholarly fashion, the writer takes us on a journey, using the metaphor of “The Voyage of the Good Ship Epilepsy.” As a near footnote, the author suggests in the end that the term “epilepsy” should be abolished altogether.
Dravet syndrome and the influence of the genome: Dr. Sanjay Sisodiya
Dravet syndrome is a rare, severe epilepsy caused by certain changes in the SCN1A gene. But people with Dravet have a wide range of clinical characteristics that cannot be fully explained by these changes. What else is going on?
Comment les médecins peuvent-ils encourager les personnes atteintes d’épilepsie à pratiquer une activité physique ?
Des études suggèrent que faire de l’exercice améliore la condition physique, l’humeur, la pensée et la mémoire, ainsi que la qualité de vie globale des personnes atteintes d’épilepsie – autant d’avantages qui s’appliquent également aux personnes non épileptiques.
Cerebral amyloid angiopathy, seizures, and epilepsy: Dr. Brin Freund
Sixty percent of patients with dementia on autopsy studies have cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) pathology. This episode discusses the relationship between CAA and epilepsy through the lens of a recent publication. Dr. Alina Ivaniuk talks with Dr. Brin Freund.
These Screen-printed, Flexible Sensors Allow Earbuds to Record Brain Activity and Exercise Levels
Earbuds can be turned into a tool to record the electrical activity of the brain and levels of lactate in the body with two flexible sensors screen-printed onto a flexible surface.
Largest genetic study of epilepsy to date provides new insights on why epilepsy develops and potential treatments
The largest genetic study of its kind, coordinated by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), has discovered specific changes in our DNA that increase the risk of developing epilepsy.
UTHealth Houston researcher awarded $3.1M NIH grant to study sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
A five-year, $3.1 million grant to study preventive strategies for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) has been awarded to UTHealth Houston by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
35th International Epilepsy Congress presents latest in epilepsy research and professional opportunities
The 35th International Epilepsy Congress (IEC) will take place September 2 – 6, 2023, in Dublin, Ireland. Registrants will hear from the best in global epileptology during teaching courses, symposia, and lectures hosted by the ILAE and IBE.
Caring for someone with functional seizures: Shannon Guinard’s story
Functional seizures resemble epileptic seizures but are not prompted by any electrical activity in the brain. People with functional seizures live with stigma, stress, and emotional and financial burden — and so do their care partners. Joy Mazur spoke with Shannon Guinard about the challenges and stigmas that face care partners of people with functional seizures.
Circadian rhythms and epilepsy Part II: Dr. Maxime Baud
What percentage of people with epilepsy have rhythms to their seizures? How do anti-seizure medications affect rhythms? Is it possible to manipulate seizure rhythms? In Part 2 of our two-part series on circadian rhythms, Dr. Laurent Sheybani talks with Dr. Maxime Baud.