DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Neurological Disease

Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy

HIGH SEVERITY

Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to two or more appropriately chosen and tolerated anti-seizure medications. Affects approximately one-third of the 50 million people worldwide with epilepsy. Can result from various structural, genetic, or metabolic causes.

Global Affected

8.0M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Recurring seizures uncontrolled by medication
Loss of consciousness
Post-ictal confusion
Injury from seizures
SUDEP risk
Depression and anxiety

Treatment Options

Medications
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Surgical interventions
Deep brain stimulation
Rehabilitation
Supportive care

Risk Factors

1Age
2Family history
3Genetic mutations
4Head trauma
5Vascular disease
6Environmental exposures
7Infections
8Autoimmune disease

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Neurological examination
  • 2MRI/CT imaging
  • 3EEG
  • 4EMG/NCV
  • 5Lumbar puncture
  • 6Genetic testing
  • 7Neuropsychological testing

Prognosis

Despite trials of 2+ appropriate antiepileptic drugs, 30-40% of patients remain refractory. Epilepsy surgery offers 60-80% seizure freedom in carefully selected candidates with focal epilepsy. Vagus nerve stimulation provides 50%+ seizure reduction in 40-50% of patients. Ketogenic diet helps 30-50% of children and some adults. Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) risk is 1 in 1,000 annually. Early surgical referral improves outcomes; delay reduces success rates.

Prevention

  • Head protection
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Cognitive stimulation
  • Physical exercise
  • Healthy diet
  • Avoidance of toxins
  • Regular monitoring

Research Status

Surgical resection for focal epilepsy. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS). CBD (Epidiolex) approved for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut. Ketogenic diet for some types.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBrazilCanadaChinaGermanyEgyptSpainFranceUnited KingdomGreeceIndiaItalyJapanNigeriaUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539800
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.