Editorial

This special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Epilepsy highlights the unique challenges faced in transitioning adolescent and young adult patients with epilepsy from pediatric to adult neurology health care professionals. In this issue, we aim to provide readers with a comprehensive and multifaceted compendium that serves as an invaluable resource providing insights and actionable information to guide health care professionals treating adolescents and young adults on the precipice of this transition. While there is a wide body of literature addressing this topic, the best practices continue to be developed as health care delivery and access to care models continue to evolve. Successful transition relies on many factors, among which a cohesive and seamless flow of information between pediatric and adult providers is paramount. While deceptively simple in theory, there are indeed a myriad of circumstances that may impede the transition process and, in fact, many academic centers have created transition teams and/or clinics specifically to address these issues and streamline the process. In recognition of the fact that there is no “one size fits all” approach, in this issue, we include multiple examples of successful transition clinics and processes serving a broad population ranging from urban to rural environments. Additionally, we have included transition-related topics addressing the following: considerations in selected populations, such as the intellectually disabled, and those with rare epilepsy syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, and Rett syndrome; pharmacologic issues and considerations; ketogenic dietary therapy maintenance and challenges thereof; use digital health and telemedicine; considerations unique to adolescent and young adult women; identification of mental health concerns; and perceptions of transition readiness among patients, caregivers, and health care professionals.

We would like to give special thanks to the following individuals who provided additional peer review and guidance: David Hsu, MD, PhD, and Thomas Sutula, MD, PhD.

Publication History

Article published online:
24 September 2020