Understanding Adult-Onset Genetic Generalized Epilepsy and Treatment Success

Source: Epilepsia open

Summary

This study looked at adults who were newly diagnosed with a type of epilepsy called genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE). Researchers wanted to understand the different types of GGE, how these patients responded to treatments, and whether some could stop their medications after a period of being seizure-free. The study included 67 participants, all 18 years or older, who had their first seizures between March 2010 and March 2020.

The results showed that most patients responded well to treatment, especially with medications like valproate and levetiracetam. About 85% of patients with generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCA) and 83% with GGE not otherwise specified (GGE-NOS) were seizure-free for two years. However, only about 24% of those with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) achieved the same level of seizure freedom. Additionally, some patients were able to stop their medications safely, especially those with GTCA and GGE-NOS.

These findings are important because they highlight that many adults with GGE can achieve good seizure control with the right treatment. It also suggests that not everyone with GGE will need to take medication for life, particularly if they have certain types of seizures. However, the study had limitations, such as a small number of participants and a focus on those who were newly diagnosed, which means more research is needed to understand GGE fully in a broader population.

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