Epilepsy is defined as the occurrence of recurrent spontaneous seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is a common condition seen in one in 100 people in the society. For the diagnosis of epilepsy, at least two episodes must occur clinically at different times. All feverless convulsions on the same day - within 24 hours - are considered as 'single seizures'.
Causes of Epilepsy in Children
Seizures may occur in children for various reasons and may manifest themselves in different clinical forms at any age starting from the newborn period. Some types of seizures (especially diving, blank staring) are not recognized by families, leading to delays in seeking medical attention and diagnosis, and a decrease in the child's perception and understanding capacity. In infants, a movement in the form of closing forward or backward while standing still indicates West syndrome, a severe type of epilepsy. In adolescent girls, sudden jumping of the arms and dropping of objects, especially in the morning hours, may be mistaken for clumsiness and awkwardness.
Electroencephalography (EEG) is a helpful test in the diagnosis of epilepsy. EEG evaluation should be performed at certain intervals during treatment. Epilepsy treatment is long-term and requires daily medication for at least two years and in some cases for five years or for life. Therefore, cooperation and collaboration with the family is the key to success in treatment. Thirty percent of childhood epilepsies are resistant to treatment. In this group, in addition to drug therapy, epilepsy surgery and vagal neve stimulation (brain pacemaker) and ketogenic diet are other treatment options in appropriate patients.
