Epileptic Encephalopathies: Clinical Aspects, Molecular Features and Pathogenesis, Therapeutic Targets and Translational Opportunities, and Future Research Directions. (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Germain, Blair; Maria, Bernard L.
• Other Names: Maria Bernard Lee guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of child neurology. Volume 33:Number 1(2018:Jan.)
• Page Start: 7
• Page End: 40
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: Epilepsy -- encephalopathy -- infantile spasms -- Lennox-Gastaut syndrome; Nervous system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.928
• DOI: 10.1177/0883073817697846
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0883-0738

Abstract

Epileptic encephalopathies encompass a heterogeneous group of epilepsy syndromes that manifest with cognitive, behavioral, and neurologic deficits, seizures that are often intractable and multiform, aggressive electroencephalographic paroxysmal activity, and sometimes early death. As more is learned about the etiologies and manifestations of epileptic encephalopathies, progress has been made toward better treatment options. However, there is still a great need for further randomized controlled trials and research to help create clinically effective therapies. The 2015 Neurobiology of Disease in Children symposium, held in conjunction with the 44th annual meeting of the Child Neurology Society, aimed to (1) describe the clinical concerns involving diagnosis and treatment, (2) review the current status of understanding in the pathogenesis of epileptic encephalopathy, (3) discuss clinical management and therapies for epileptic encephalopathy, and (4) define future directions of research. This article summarizes the presentations and includes an edited transcript of question-and-answer sessions.