Genomic and clinical predictors of lacosamide response in refractory epilepsies.

Objective: Clinical and genetic predictors of response to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are largely unknown. We examined predictors of lacosamide response in a real-world clinical setting.

Methods: We tested the association of clinical predictors with treatment response using regression modeling in a cohort of people with refractory epilepsy.

Climate change and epilepsy: Time to take action.

Climate change is the biggest challenge facing humanity today. The associated global warming and humidification, increases in the severity and frequency of extreme climate events, extension of the ranges of vector-borne diseases, and the consequent social and economic stresses and disruption will have major negative consequences on many aspects of health care. People whose resilience to change is already impaired may suffer disproportionately from these environmental changes, which are of unprecedented reach and magnitude.

Possible role of skeletal muscle mutation in apnea during seizure.

gene mutations cause a number of neuromuscular phenotypes including myotonia. A subset of infants with myotonia-causing mutations experience severe life-threatening episodic laryngospasm with apnea. We have recently identified similar mutations in association with sudden infant death syndrome.

Comparative effectiveness of antiepileptic drugs in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy.

Objective: To study the effectiveness and tolerability of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) commonly used in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME).

Methods: People with JME were identified from a large database of individuals with epilepsy, which includes detailed retrospective information on AED use. We assessed secular changes in AED use and calculated rates of response (12-month seizure freedom) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) for the five most common AEDs.

A home-based, primary-care model for epilepsy care in India: Basis and design.

Objectives: A cluster-randomized trial of home-based care using primary-care resources for people with epilepsy has been set up to optimize epilepsy care in resource-limited communities in low- and middle-income countries. The primary aim is to determine whether treatment adherence to antiepileptic drugs is better with home-based care or with routine clinic-based care. The secondary aims are to compare the effects of the two care pathways on seizure control and quality of life.