Epilepsia
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To evaluate the incidence of sexual dysfunction in men with focal epilepsy and to establish their hormonal profiles. ⋯ Our study showed a relatively high incidence of sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction with sexual intercourse and sex life, as defined by the IIEF I-V questionnaire, in men with refractory focal epilepsy. The most frequent dysfunction in these patients is the impairment of sexual desire. However, our study indicates some specific hormonal changes related to various types of sexual dysfunction that are not related to antiepileptic drug treatment.
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The objective of the study was to analyze the short-term efficacy and safety of levetiracetam (LEV) to treat repetitive seizures in hospitalized patients. ⋯ LEV is effective and safe to treat repetitive seizures in hospitalized patients, including patients in focal SE.
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Comparative Study
Long-term prognosis and psychosocial outcomes after surgery for MTLE.
To assess the seizure-freedom rates and self-perceived psychosocial changes associated with the long-term outcome of epilepsy surgery in patients with refractory medial temporal lobe epilepsy associated with hippocampal sclerosis. ⋯ The results of this study suggest that temporal lobe surgery has real long-term benefits. Two specific conclusions emerge: (a) the long-term rates of freedom from seizure depend on how seizure freedom is defined, and (b) the psychosocial long-term outcome does not change dramatically over years and does not depend on seizure freedom.
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Comparative Study
Lithium-induced confusional states: nonconvulsive status epilepticus or triphasic encephalopathy?
Lithium therapy can cause a confusional state by direct toxicity, precipitation of nonconvulsive status epilepticus, or by interplay with other neuroleptic medications to produce neuroleptic malignant syndrome or serotonin syndrome. These conditions resemble each other clinically, but EEG may help differentiate among them. We reviewed the EEG patterns with triphasic waves or rhythmic delta activity in lithium toxic patients and discuss clinical and EEG differentiation among syndromes. Lithium toxicity poses significant diagnostic challenges from EEG and clinical perspectives.
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To use available evidence and expert consensus to develop performance indicators for the evaluation and management of pediatric epilepsy. ⋯ We identified 30 potential indicators for evaluating the care provided to pediatric patients with epilepsy. The next step is to examine the relation of these performance indicators to clinical outcomes and health care utilization among pediatric patients with epilepsy.