AIM: Sudden unexplained death is a significant cause of mortality in adults with epilepsy. Only a few data exist about this risk in childhood. METHODS: Cases of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP) up to the age of 18 y occurring at our hospital between 1984 and 2001 were identified. The incidence rate was calculated on the basis of diagnosed epileptics registered with a statutory disability insurance scheme. RESULTS: Four cases of SUDEP were identified during the 18-y period. The incidence of SUDEP was 4.3 per 10,000 patient-years. All children showed polytherapy-refractory epilepsy, developmental retardation and early-onset epilepsy. Two witnessed cases had shown no previous signs of seizure. CONCLUSION: SUDEP is rare in childhood. Children with uncomplicated epilepsy seem not to be at risk.
AIM: Sudden unexplained death is a significant cause of mortality in adults with epilepsy. Only a few data exist about this risk in childhood. METHODS: Cases of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP) up to the age of 18 y occurring at our hospital between 1984 and 2001 were identified. The incidence rate was calculated on the basis of diagnosed epileptics registered with a statutory disability insurance scheme. RESULTS: Four cases of SUDEP were identified during the 18-y period. The incidence of SUDEP was 4.3 per 10,000 patient-years. All children showed polytherapy-refractory epilepsy, developmental retardation and early-onset epilepsy. Two witnessed cases had shown no previous signs of seizure. CONCLUSION: SUDEP is rare in childhood. Children with uncomplicated epilepsy seem not to be at risk.
Authors: David J Thurman; Giancarlo Logroscino; Ettore Beghi; W Allen Hauser; Dale C Hesdorffer; Charles R Newton; Fulvio Alexandre Scorza; Josemir W Sander; Torbjörn Tomson Journal: Epilepsia Date: 2016-11-26 Impact factor: 5.864
Authors: Anne T Berg; Katherine Nickels; Elaine C Wirrell; Ada T Geerts; Petra M C Callenbach; Willem F Arts; Christina Rios; Peter R Camfield; Carol S Camfield Journal: Pediatrics Date: 2013-06-10 Impact factor: 7.124