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Neuropediatrics 2022; 53(04): 287-290
DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1739130
Short Communication

Favorable Response to “Memantine” in a Child with GRIN2B Epileptic Encephalopathy

Sathya Chidambaram
1   Department of Paediatrics, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
,
Ranjith Kumar Manokaran
2   Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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Abstract

GRIN2B is a gene encoding GluN2B subunit under the family of N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which is responsible for neurogenesis and cognitive processes. The role of NMDA receptor antagonists like memantine is being explored for therapies in drug-resistant epilepsies. Here, we present a case of a 20-month-old boy who presented with refractory epileptic spasms. Upon failure of multiple antiepileptic drugs, he was started on oral memantine. There was a significant reduction in average seizure episodes by ∼80%. The use of memantine along with antiepileptic drug polytherapy has proved to be beneficial in our case. Our experience with memantine and favorable outcome opens up the scope of more research into the use of NMDA receptor antagonist as a drug option for refractory epilepsies with proven genetic mutation and hence improves the overall neurodevelopmental outcome and survival chance.

Keywords

GRIN2B - memantine - epileptic encephalopathy - epileptic spasms

Supplementary Material



Publication History

Received: 15 March 2021

Accepted: 31 August 2021

Article published online:
29 November 2021

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