BackgroundIn this paper, seizure types, and epilepsy syndromes are elucidated as per ILAE (2010) classification. A brief outline of the antiepileptic drug regimens used and the outcome of seizure control in a two -year period is presented. The applicability of the ILAE classification in resource limited countries has been revisited.MethodsThis is a descriptive prospective study, in which 202 patients were enrolled. The Cohort group was seen and evaluated by a pediatric neurologist at the Pediatric neurology Outpatients Department (OPD). Epilepsy was classified using the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification (2005–2009) report. All patients had an Electroencephalogram (EEG) at the start of the study, and this was repeated as deemed appropriate. Brain imaging (MRI) was done to patients when indicated. Treatment decisions were made by pediatric neurologists. Outcomes were categorized into four groups: fully recovered, well controlled, partially controlled and uncontrolled.ResultsThe mean age is 10.5 + 2.7 years. Male to female ratio was 1.7: 1. Thirty five (17.3%) patients had generalized onset seizures, 46(22.8%) had focal onset seizures, 104(51.5%) had a specific epilepsy syndrome, and 17(8.4%) patients were unclassified. 170 (84.2%) patients were on mono-therapy on their initial visit, 30(14.8%) were on two Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs) while two (1.0%) patients were on poly-therapy. After 2 years; 155(76.7%) patients were on mono-therapy, 36(17.8%) on two AEDs while ten were (4.0%) on polytherapy. One eighty (88.2%) patients were controlled. Fifteen (7.4%) of them were off medication after being seizure free for 2 years. Twenty (9.8%) have partial control, while two (1.0%) patients were uncontrolled. Patients with focal epilepsy, those on polytherapy and those with abnormal imaging had poor prognosis.ConclusionsThe ILAE classification can be used in resource limited countries. Childhood epilepsies have a good prognosis provided they are well classified and treated.
Consequences of varicella zoster infection reflect a wide range of minor to serious complications involving the central nervous system. This is a case series with challenging presentations, imaging features and favorable outcome. For example, the cases presented with clinical features that resemble Brown Sequard Syndrome, transverse myelitis manner and multiple sclerosis and cognitive decline. We recommend adequate history taking, clinical examination and use of available investigation. Early treatment is likely to prevent any disabling neurological damage.
Neuro-ferritnopathy (NBIA) is a bag of diseases due to abnormal iron metabolism. It has different underlying
genetic and enzymatic abnormalities. On the other hand, they share some radiological features. Patients
present with a wide range of cerebral symptoms and signs. Diagnosis depends on the semiology, genetic
testing and MRI imaging. No specific treatment is available for these cases and they represent a challenge
to the treating neurologist. Here we illustrate two interesting cases with their clinical and imaging findings
to raise the awareness of such rare diseases and help diagnosing them in a low- resource setting.
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