Transition of children with epilepsies to adult care.

UNLABELLED: Young people aged between 10 and 20 years will account for nearly 23% of the UK's total population by the end of 2012. This fact, coupled with an increasing number of children with chronic illness surviving into adulthood, means that the transition of children with chronic illness into adult care is becoming an increasingly important issue. Epilepsies are pervasive disorders that consist not only of recurrent epileptic seizures that can change over time, but also of evolving behavioural, academic and social difficulties. Many of these young individuals feel 'dumped' or 'left in the dark' once they are 'transferred' to adult care.
CONCLUSION: Therefore, it is essential to acknowledge that 'transition of care' in children with epilepsies is not a 'step' but a 'process'. It is a very challenging time with increased stress and anxiety, for both the individual and their families. This article will discuss the various factors associated with the complex topic and aim to establish a framework for the successful transition of children with epilepsy into adult care. ©2012 The Author(s)/Acta Paediatrica ©2012 Foundation Acta Paediatrica.