Background and aims: Plasma Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) is recognized as a reliable marker for cardiac dysfunction. Recent studies postulate that intracerebral epileptic activity may trigger BNP secretion by heart or by brain. This prospective study aimed to evaluate BNP concentrations, before and after valproate sodium (VPA) or ox-carbamazepine (OX-CMZ) monotherapy, in children with idiopathic epilepsy.

Background and aims:Epidemiological studies indicate that children with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) are at increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease in adult life. The aim of this prospective study was to assess the prevalence of insulin resistance and lipid disorders in children with IUGR.