Long-term outcomes of generalized tonic-clonic seizures in a childhood absence epilepsy trial.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To determine incidence and early predictors of generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCs) in children with childhood absence epilepsy (CAE).

Methods

Occurrence of GTCs was determined in 446 children with CAE who participated in a randomized clinical trial comparing ethosuximide, lamotrigine, and valproate as initial therapy for CAE.

Results

As of June 2014, the cohort had been followed for a median of 7.0 years since enrollment and 12% (53) have experienced at least one GTC. The median time to develop GTCs from initial therapy was 4.7 years. The median age at first GTC was 13.1 years. Fifteen (28%) were not on medications at the time of their first GTC. On univariate analysis, older age at enrollment was associated with a higher risk of GTCs (p=-0.0009), as wa

SUBMITTER: Shinnar S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4603882 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature