Onchocerca volvulus and epilepsy: A comprehensive review using the Bradford Hill criteria for causation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The possibility that onchocerciasis may cause epilepsy has been suggested for a long time, but thus far, an etiological link has not been universally accepted. The objective of this review is to critically appraise the relationship between Onchocerca volvulus and epilepsy and subsequently apply the Bradford Hill criteria to further evaluate the likelihood of a causal association.

Methods

PubMed and gray literature published until September 15, 2020, were searched and findings from original research were synthesized. Adherence to the 9 Bradford Hill criteria in the context of onchocerciasis and epilepsy was determined to assess whether the criteria are met to strengthen the evidence base for a causal link between infection with O. volvulus and epilepsy, including t

SUBMITTER: Colebunders R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7790236 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature