Articles related to EPILEPSY/SEIZURES

The new guideline emphasizes early intervention and careful medication selection for pregnant patients with epilepsy, recommending lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and oxcarbazepine, while advising against valproic acid, phenobarbital, and topiramate.

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) necessitate a multidisciplinary approach, combining neurologic evaluation with psychological insights to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective patient care. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to avoid unnecessary treatments and to engage patients in appropriate psychological therapies.

In the realm of PNES, the neurologist’s role extends beyond diagnosis to being a pivotal part of the therapeutic journey, employing empathy and clarity in patient communication to facilitate a seamless transition to psychiatric care, enhancing the potential for successful treatment outcomes.

Recent insights into SUDC highlight the potential role of seizures and hippocampal changes, urging a reevaluation of pediatric health risks and preventive measures in vulnerable age groups.

With an estimated 30% to 40% of unexplained epilepsy cases having a genetic etiology, the newest tools offer the potential for timely, accurate diagnoses, resulting in personalized care that can improve outcomes and enhance quality of life.

This landmark study provides crucial insights into the safety of anti-seizure medications during pregnancy, offering both reassurance to prospective mothers and important guidelines for healthcare providers.