Multimodal Approach Improves Diagnosis of Pediatric Seizures
Source: Epilepsia open
Summary
In a study involving 249 children who experienced new-onset bilateral tonic-clonic seizures, researchers aimed to understand how different diagnostic methods could help classify the type of seizures. The methods examined included the description of the seizures (semiology), brain wave activity measured by EEG, and brain imaging through MRI. The goal was to see how well each method worked on its own and when used together to identify whether the seizures were focal-to-bilateral tonic-clonic (FBTC) or generalized-onset bilateral tonic-clonic (GBTC).
The findings showed that using seizure descriptions alone was not very effective, helping to classify only 22% of the cases. The EEG was more useful, correctly identifying the seizure type in 53% of the children, especially those aged 5 to 10 years, where it was accurate 72% of the time. MRI found brain abnormalities in 14% of the children, but when all three methods were combined, the classification success rate increased to 73%, and with follow-up evaluations, it reached 81%. Interestingly, some children diagnosed with GBTC seizures showed signs that are usually associated with focal seizures, indicating that these signs may not always be reliable.
These results highlight the importance of using a combination of diagnostic tools to accurately identify seizure types in children. Relying on just one method can lead to misdiagnosis, which can affect treatment decisions. While the study provides valuable insights, it also points out that some signs may not be specific enough, suggesting that careful interpretation is necessary. This research is crucial for guiding appropriate treatment for children experiencing their first convulsive seizure, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
Free: Seizure First Aid Quick Guide (PDF)
Plus one plain-language weekly digest of new epilepsy research.
Unsubscribe anytime. No medical advice.
