Neuropediatrics 2006; 37 - PS2_1_3
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-945561

TYPICAL IDIOPATHIC ABSENCE EPILEPSY: A NOT SO BENIGN CONDITION

B Echenne 1, A Roubertie 1, C Cieuta-Walti 1, R Cheminal-Lancelot 1, G Sébire 1
  • 1CHU Fleurimont, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada and CHU Gui de Chauliac Université de Montpellier France., Fleurimont, QC, Canada

Objectives: To investigate the cognitive abilities and school performances in children with typical absence epilepsy (IAE) compared to a control group of non epileptic children, matched by socio-economic status, age and sex.

Methods: Neuropsychological tests were performed in a group of 27 children with IAE and in 30 non-epileptic children (Wechsler scale, BEM 144, Rey picture, Conners scale, DSM4 subtests, Trail Making test, Stroop test). School performances were appreciated according to the criteria of French Education Department. All children had almost 2 EEG and a clinical examination every six months, during a period of one year.

Results: Significantly lower pIQ and full IQ were recorded in IAE patients, with absence of high level IQ; a very high incidence of attention deficit disorders (52%), and low abilities concerning short term memory, verbal and visual memory, information processing, and motor speed were also observed. 71% of patients have school difficulties (15% in control group). These results concern a high percentage of children with normal EEG and well controlled absences.

Conclusion: IAE is not a so benign condition that it is said, and special care and teatching are necessary for most of the patients, even a good response to therapy is observed.