Exploring the Correlations Between Language Impairments, Central Auditory Processing Disorder, Neuropsychiatric Functions, and Seizure Timing in Children With Self-Limited Epilepsy With Centrotemporal Spikes

Abstract

Background Children with self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes often face language impairments and central auditory processing difficulties. The correlations between these issues, seizure timing, and neuropsychiatric challenges are not fully understood. This study delves into the connections between language impairments and central auditory processing difficulties in cases with self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes, examining their links with seizure occurrence and neuropsychiatric function. Materials and Methods Patients with self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes were categorized based on seizure timing: group 1 experienced seizures postbedtime, and group 2 prewaking. Both, alongside controls, underwent the Turkish Expressive and Receptive Language Test (TIFALDI) for language skills, and the Frequency Pattern and Duration Pattern tests for central auditory processing difficulties. Neuropsychiatric assessments involved the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children–Revised, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Conners Parent Rating Scale–Revised Short, and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale–11. Results The study comprised 56 patients with self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (ages 6-13) and 32 healthy controls. Both groups significantly lagged behind controls on the Frequency Pattern and Duration Pattern tests ( P < .001). In the TIFALDI, the expressive language scores varied between group 1 and controls ( P = .04) but not the receptive language scores or the test’s expressive and receptive language results between group 2 and controls ( P > .05). In the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, group 1 diverged from controls in behavioral and kind and helpful behavior scores ( P = .016 and P = .012). Group 1's Barratt Impulsiveness Scale–11 values surpassed controls’ ( P = .038). Conclusion Children with self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes have a high central auditory processing difficulties prevalence, regardless of seizure timing. Those with postsleep seizures tend to confront expressive language difficulties, alongside issues in prosocial behavior and impulsivity.