Seizure Recurrence after Withdrawal of Antiepileptic Drugs
Melissa A. Walker
Kevin J. Staley
Recurrence Risk After Withdrawal of Antiepileptic Drugs in Children With Epilepsy: A Prospective Study
Ramos-Lizana J, Aguirre-Rodríguez J, Aguilera-López P, et al. Eur J Paediatr Neurol. 2010;14(2):116–124
Background
Many children will outgrow epilepsy and no longer need antiepileptic drugs (AED), which have many potential side effects and interactions. However, previous studies provided little guidance on when AED monotherapy may be stopped without increasing risk of recurrent seizure.1 This study analyzed remission after cessation of AEDs per current practice guidelines.
Objectives
To determine seizure recurrence risk and prognostic factors predicting relapse in children with epilepsy after AED withdrawal.
Methods
Prospective, observational trial at a single center in Spain from 1994 to 2004.
Patients
353 children ages 0 to 13 years with a history of ≥2 unprovoked seizures separated by ≥24 hours. Select exclusion criteria: exclusive neonatal seizures, inborn error of metabolism, neurodegenerative disorder.
Intervention
AEDs were stopped after patients had been in remission ≥2 years. Patients were then followed by personal interview for 1 to 3 years and telephone for ≥5 years. In addition, baseline and follow-up EEGs and baseline imaging were reviewed when available.
Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
Full access? Get Clinical Tree
