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Leng X, Hu G, Wang X, Zhang Y, Guo Y, Song C, Yang F, Jiang W, Wang Y, Wang X. Risk of COVID-19 infection and seizure exacerbation among patients with epilepsy during the peak of Omicron wave. Epilepsia Open 2024. [PMID: 38795316 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Existing data regarding the risk of COVID-19 infection and its effects on seizure control in patients with epilepsy (PWE) are inconclusive. Our research aims to investigate the PWE who are susceptible to COVID-19 and what factors contribute to seizure exacerbation. METHODS From Dec 28, 2022 to Feb 19, 2023, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey among adult PWE was conducted. The demographics, epilepsy-related information, COVID-19-related variables, and seizure outcomes after COVID-19 infection were collected. Multivariate logistic analyses were performed to determine the risk factors associated with COVID-19 infection and exacerbated seizures. RESULTS Of 1557 PWE, 829 (53.2%) were infected with COVID-19 and 136 (16.4%) developed seizure exacerbation after COVID-19 infection. Overweight/obesity (OR 1.372, 95% CI 1.075-1.753, p = 0.011), immunocompromised (OR 3.301, 95% CI 1.093-9.974, p = 0.031), active epilepsy (OR 1.700, 95% CI 1.378-2.097, p < 0.001), and antiseizure medication (ASM) polytherapy (OR 1.314, 95% CI 1.065-1.621, p = 0.011) were associated with COVID-19 infection. Active epilepsy (OR 4.696, 95% CI 2.568-8.586, p < 0.001) and fever-associated seizures (OR 4.298, 95%CI 2.659-6.946, p < 0.001) were associated with seizure exacerbation. SIGNIFICANCE PWE with overweight/obesity, immunocompromised, active epilepsy, and ASM polytherapy were at higher risk of COVID-19 infection. Once infected with COVID-19, seizures were exacerbated in PWE with active epilepsy and fever-associated seizures. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Patients with epilepsy (PWE) do not appear to be more susceptible to COVID-19 infection than general population. Once infected with COVID-19, 16.4% of PWE had seizure exacerbation. The PWE who have experienced seizures within the past 12 months before infection tend to contract COVID-19 more often, and are more likely to experience seizure exacerbations following COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Leng
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Gengyao Hu
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yingchi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yaomin Guo
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Changgeng Song
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wen Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaomu Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Li L, Yuan L, Zheng W, Yang Y, Deng X, Song Z, Deng H. An SCN1A gene missense variant in a Chinese Tujia ethnic family with genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1229569. [PMID: 37576022 PMCID: PMC10412811 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1229569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFSP) is a familial epileptic syndrome that is genetically heterogeneous and inherited in an autosomal dominant form in most cases. To date, at least seven genes have been reported to associate with GEFSP. This study aimed to identify the disease-causing variant in a Chinese Tujia ethnic family with GEFSP by using whole exome sequencing, Sanger sequencing, and in silico prediction. A heterozygous missense variant c.5725A>G (p.T1909A) was identified in the sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit 1 gene (SCN1A) coding region. The variant co-segregated with the GEFSP phenotype in this family, and it was predicted as disease-causing by multiple in silico programs, which was proposed as the genetic cause of GEFSP, further genetically diagnosed as GEFSP2. These findings expand the genetic and phenotypic spectrum of GEFSP and should contribute to genetic diagnoses, personalized therapies, and prognoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Li
- Health Management Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lamei Yuan
- Health Management Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Disease Genome Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wen Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiong Deng
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhi Song
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hao Deng
- Health Management Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Center for Experimental Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Disease Genome Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, China
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3
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Han JY, Han SB. Pathogenetic and etiologic considerations of febrile seizures. Clin Exp Pediatr 2023; 66:46-53. [PMID: 36635899 PMCID: PMC9899550 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2021.01039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Febrile seizure (FS), which occurs in febrile children without underlying health problems, is the most common type of seizure disorder in children. The suggested pathogenesis of FS derived from several animal and human studies is multifactorial and debatable. Neuronal hyperexcitability, which develops during inflammatory responses that accompany fever, provokes seizures. However, the exact role of each inflammatory mediator (e.g., cytokines) is undefined in terms of the connection between systemic or local inflammation and the central nervous system, and the mechanisms by which cytokines increase neuronal excitability remain unclear. In contrast, the cause of fever in most children with FS is usually mild respiratory virus infection (e.g., rhinovirus, influenza virus, adenovirus, and enterovirus) rather than severe bacterial infections. In temperate regions, the major causative respiratory viruses seem to mirror seasonally prevalent respiratory viruses in the community. Therefore, vigorous efforts to identify the causative pathogen of fever may not be necessary in children with FS. Genetic factors seem to play a role in neuronal hyperexcitability, and some types of genetic variation have been identified in several genes encoding ion channels of neurons that participate in neuronal excitation. Although most children with FS have benign outcomes, some characteristics such as complex FS, febrile status epilepticus, consecutive afebrile seizures, and the presence of neurodevelopmental disabilities may require further genetic and neurologic evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Yoon Han
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Daejeon St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seung Beom Han
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Daejeon St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Daejeon, Korea
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus: An Uncommon Cause of Febrile Seizures-Results from a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Pediatr Rep 2022; 14:464-478. [PMID: 36412662 PMCID: PMC9680341 DOI: 10.3390/pediatric14040055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a highly contagious viral pathogen. In infants, it is usually listed among the main causes of medical referrals and hospitalizations, particularly among newborns, and a considerable base of evidence associates RSV infections and bronchiolitis with long-term neurological sequelae. We specifically performed a systematic review and meta-analysis in order to ascertain whether RSV infections may be associated with an increased risk for febrile seizures (FS) in infected infants. According to the PRISMA statement, Pubmed, Embase, and pre-print archive medRxiv.og were searched for eligible observational studies published up to 1 July 2022. Raw data included the incidence of FS among children admitted for influenza-like illness (ILI) and/or bronchiolitis, with a confirmed diagnosis of RSV or seasonal influenza virus (SIV) infection. Data were then pooled in a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 measure, while reporting bias was assessed by means of funnel plots and regression analysis. A total of 11 studies including 6847 cases of RSV infections were retrieved, with a pooled prevalence of 29.975 cases of FS per 1000 RSV cases (I2 = 88.5%). The prevalence was not substantially greater in studies performed in pediatric intensive care units (53.817 per 1000 RSV cases vs. 23.552, p = 0.12). Higher occurrence of FS was reported from studies performed after 2010 (Risk Ratio [RR] 1.429, 95% Confidence Interval [95%CI] 1.049-1.948), and in China (RR 2.105, 95%CI 1.356-3.266) and South Africa (RR 1.722, 95%CI 1.060-2.824) than in Europe, while a lower occurrence was reported form the USA (RR 0.414, 95%CI 0.265-0.649). Eventually, FS were less likely reported from RSV cases compared to subjects affected by seasonal influenza (RR 0.402; 95%CI 0.228-0.708). Although RSV is often associated with high risk of neurological complications, substantially less cases of FS are reported than in SIV infections. However, the paucity of available studies recommends a cautious appraisal of aforementioned results.
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Suvekbala V, Ramachandran H, Veluchamy A, Mascarenhas MAB, Ramprasath T, Nair MKC, Garikipati VNS, Gundamaraju R, Subbiah R. The Promising Epigenetic Regulators for Refractory Epilepsy: An Adventurous Road Ahead. Neuromolecular Med 2022:10.1007/s12017-022-08723-0. [DOI: 10.1007/s12017-022-08723-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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6
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Sharkov A, Sparber P, Stepanova A, Pyankov D, Korostelev S, Skoblov M. Case Report: Phenotype-Driven Diagnosis of Atypical Dravet-Like Syndrome Caused by a Novel Splicing Variant in the SCN2A Gene. Front Genet 2022; 13:888481. [PMID: 35711923 PMCID: PMC9194094 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.888481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Febrile-associated epileptic encephalopathy is a large genetically heterogeneous group that is associated with pathogenic variants in SCN1A, PCDH19, SCN2A, SCN8A, and other genes. The disease onset ranges from neonatal or early-onset epileptic encephalopathy to late-onset epilepsy after 18 months. Some etiology-specific epileptic encephalopathies have target therapy which can serve as a clue for the correct genetic diagnosis. We present genetic, clinical, electroencephalographic, and behavioral features of a 4-year-old girl with epileptic encephalopathy related to a de novo intronic variant in the SCN2A gene. Initial NGS analysis revealed a frameshift variant in the KDM6A gene and a previously reported missense variant in SCN1A. Due to lack of typical clinical signs of Kabuki syndrome, we performed X-chromosome inactivation that revealed nearly complete skewed inactivation. Segregation analysis showed that the SCN1A variant was inherited from a healthy father. The proband had resistance to multiple antiseizure medications but responded well to sodium channel inhibitor Carbamazepine. Reanalysis of NGS data by a neurogeneticist revealed a previously uncharacterized heterozygous variant c.1035-7A>G in the SCN2A gene. Minigene assay showed that the c.1035-7A>G variant activates a cryptic intronic acceptor site which leads to 6-nucleotide extension of exon 9 (NP_066287.2:p.(Gly345_Gln346insTyrSer). SCN2A encephalopathy is a recognizable severe phenotype. Its electro-clinical and treatment response features can serve as a hallmark. In such a patient, reanalysis of genetic data is strongly recommended in case of negative or conflicting results of DNA analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artem Sharkov
- Genomed Ltd., Moscow, Russia.,Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter Sparber
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow, Russia
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7
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Tian Y, Zhai QX, Li XJ, Shi Z, Cheng CF, Fan CX, Tang B, Zhang Y, He YY, Li WB, Luo S, Hou C, Chen WX, Liao WP, Wang J. ATP6V0C Is Associated With Febrile Seizures and Epilepsy With Febrile Seizures Plus. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:889534. [PMID: 35600075 PMCID: PMC9120599 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.889534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To identify novel genetic causes of febrile seizures (FS) and epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (EFS+). Methods We performed whole-exome sequencing in a cohort of 32 families, in which at least two individuals were affected by FS or EFS+. The probands, their parents, and available family members were recruited to ascertain whether the genetic variants were co-segregation. Genes with repetitively identified variants with segregations were selected for further studies to define the gene-disease association. Results We identified two heterozygous ATP6V0C mutations (c.64G > A/p.Ala22Thr and c.361_373del/p.Thr121Profs*7) in two unrelated families with six individuals affected by FS or EFS+. The missense mutation was located in the proteolipid c-ring that cooperated with a-subunit forming the hemichannel for proton transferring. It also affected the hydrogen bonds with surround residues and the protein stability, implying a damaging effect. The frameshift mutation resulted in a loss of function by yielding a premature termination of 28 residues at the C-terminus of the protein. The frequencies of ATP6V0C mutations identified in this cohort were significantly higher than that in the control populations. All the six affected individuals suffered from their first FS at the age of 7-8 months. The two probands later manifested afebrile seizures including myoclonic seizures that responded well to lamotrigine. They all displayed favorable outcomes without intellectual or developmental abnormalities, although afebrile seizures or frequent seizures occurred. Conclusion This study suggests that ATP6V0C is potentially a candidate pathogenic gene of FS and EFS+. Screening for ATP6V0C mutations would help differentiating patients with Dravet syndrome caused by SCN1A mutations, which presented similar clinical manifestation but different responses to antiepileptic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Tian
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiong-Xiang Zhai
- Department of Pediatrics, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Li
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhen Shi
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuan-Fang Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cui-Xia Fan
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Tang
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yun-Yan He
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Bin Li
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sheng Luo
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chi Hou
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Xiong Chen
- Department of Neurology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Ping Liao
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
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Pavone P, Pappalardo XG, Parano E, Falsaperla R, Marino SD, Fink JK, Ruggieri M. Fever-Associated Seizures or Epilepsy: An Overview of Old and Recent Literature Acquisitions. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:858945. [PMID: 35529330 PMCID: PMC9070101 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.858945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to central nervous system infections, seizures and fever may occur together in several neurological disorders. Formerly, based on the clinical features and prognostic evolution, the co-association of seizure and fever included classical febrile seizures (FS) divided into simple, complex, and prolonged FS (also called febrile status epilepticus). Later, this group of disorders has been progressively indicated, with a more inclusive term, as "fever-associated seizures or epilepsy" (FASE) that encompasses: (a) FS divided into simple, complex, and prolonged FS; (b) FS plus; (c) severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (Dravet syndrome); (d) genetic epilepsy with FS plus; and (e) febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES). Among the FASE disorders, simple FS, the most common and benign condition, is rarely associated with subsequent epileptic seizures. The correlation of FS with epilepsy and other neurological disorders is highly variable. The pathogenesis of FASE is unclear but immunological and genetic factors play a relevant role and the disorders belonging to the FASE group show to have an underlying common clinical, immunological, and genetic pathway. In this study, we have reviewed and analyzed the clinical data of each of the heterogeneous group of disorders belonging to FASE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Pavone
- Unit of Clinical Pediatrics, AOU "Policlinico", PO "G. Rodolico", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Xena Giada Pappalardo
- Unit of Catania, National Council of Research, Institute for Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Enrico Parano
- Unit of Catania, National Council of Research, Institute for Research and Biomedical Innovation (IRIB), Catania, Italy
| | - Raffaele Falsaperla
- Unit of Pediatrics, Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care, and Pediatric Emergency, AOU "Policlinico", PO "San Marco", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona Domenica Marino
- Unit of Pediatrics, Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care, and Pediatric Emergency, AOU "Policlinico", PO "San Marco", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - John Kane Fink
- Department of Neurology and Ann Arbor Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Martino Ruggieri
- Unit of Rare Diseases of the Nervous System in Childhood, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, AOU "Policlinico", PO "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
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De novo mutations in childhood cases of sudden unexplained death that disrupt intracellular Ca2+ regulation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2115140118. [PMID: 34930847 PMCID: PMC8719874 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2115140118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 400 United States children 1 y of age and older die suddenly from unexplained causes annually. We studied whole-exome sequence data from 124 “trios” (decedent child and living parents) to identify genetic risk factors. Nonsynonymous mutations, mostly de novo (present in child but absent in both biological parents), were highly enriched in genes associated with cardiac and seizure disorders relative to controls, and contributed to 9% of deaths. We found significant overtransmission of loss-of-function or pathogenic missense variants in cardiac and seizure disorder genes. Most pathogenic variants were de novo in origin, highlighting the importance of trio studies. Many of these pathogenic de novo mutations altered a protein network regulating calcium-related excitability at submembrane junctions in cardiomyocytes and neurons. Sudden unexplained death in childhood (SUDC) is an understudied problem. Whole-exome sequence data from 124 “trios” (decedent child, living parents) was used to test for excessive de novo mutations (DNMs) in genes involved in cardiac arrhythmias, epilepsy, and other disorders. Among decedents, nonsynonymous DNMs were enriched in genes associated with cardiac and seizure disorders relative to controls (odds ratio = 9.76, P = 2.15 × 10−4). We also found evidence for overtransmission of loss-of-function (LoF) or previously reported pathogenic variants in these same genes from heterozygous carrier parents (11 of 14 transmitted, P = 0.03). We identified a total of 11 SUDC proband genotypes (7 de novo, 1 transmitted parental mosaic, 2 transmitted parental heterozygous, and 1 compound heterozygous) as pathogenic and likely contributory to death, a genetic finding in 8.9% of our cohort. Two genes had recurrent missense DNMs, RYR2 and CACNA1C. Both RYR2 mutations are pathogenic (P = 1.7 × 10−7) and were previously studied in mouse models. Both CACNA1C mutations lie within a 104-nt exon (P = 1.0 × 10−7) and result in slowed L-type calcium channel inactivation and lower current density. In total, six pathogenic DNMs can alter calcium-related regulation of cardiomyocyte and neuronal excitability at a submembrane junction, suggesting a pathway conferring susceptibility to sudden death. There was a trend for excess LoF mutations in LoF intolerant genes, where ≥1 nonhealthy sample in denovo-db has a similar variant (odds ratio = 6.73, P = 0.02); additional uncharacterized genetic causes of sudden death in children might be discovered with larger cohorts.
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10
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Xu YX, Zhong JM. [Early identification and diagnosis of epilepsy related to fever sensitivity]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2021; 23:749-754. [PMID: 34266536 PMCID: PMC8292662 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2105007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Febrile seizures are the most common nervous system disease in childhood, and most children have a good prognosis. However, some epilepsy cases are easily induced by fever and are characterized by "fever sensitivity", and it is difficult to differentiate such cases from febrile seizures. Epilepsy related to fever sensitivity includes hereditary epilepsy with febrile seizures plus, Dravet syndrome, and PCDH19 gene-related epilepsy. This article mainly describes the clinical manifestations of these three types of epilepsy and summarizes their clinical features in the early stage of disease onset, so as to achieve early identification, early diagnosis, and early intervention to improve prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Xin Xu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial Children's Hospital, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Jian-Min Zhong
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial Children's Hospital, Nanchang 330006, China
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Agitation and Sugar Craving Related to Epilepsy Seizure. Case Rep Psychiatry 2021; 2021:9969854. [PMID: 34055445 PMCID: PMC8112964 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9969854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Epilepsy is a chronic central nervous system disorder characterized by the recurrence of unprovoked seizures and can affect people of all ages. Seizure symptoms can vary widely in patients. Many papers have been published about agitation and epileptic seizures, but almost nothing about sugar cravings and agitation related to epilepsy. The purpose of this case report is to shed light on possibly a hidden symptom within the epilepsy field, in fact sugar cravings. Case presentation. A 12-year-old boy was referred to the children and adolescent psychiatric outpatient clinic with suspicion of ADHD. The boy has struggled with anxiety, concentration, and impulsivity. Because of intense agitation and sugar cravings, the patient was referred to EEG. The EEG shows pathological activity with bilatero-temporal to central epileptiform activity, not synchronized. After pathological EEG findings, the patient started treatment with Lamotrigine. Great improvement when it comes to agitation, moodiness, and reduction of sugar craving after starting with Lamotrigine. Conclusion We consider inexplicable behavior or symptoms such as agitation and sugar craving may be related to epilepsy seizure. Therefore, it is important that these patients should be examined more closely with EEG to confirm or deny epilepsy.
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12
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Arul J, Kommu PPK, Kasinathan A, Ray L, Krishnan L. Zinc Status and Febrile Seizures: Results from a Cross-sectional Study. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2020; 11:597-600. [PMID: 33144797 PMCID: PMC7595794 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1715992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To estimate the serum zinc levels in children under the age of 5 years with febrile seizures and febrile children without seizures Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional study from 2017 to 2018, 40 children with febrile seizures (simple and complex) were taken as cases. Forty age- and sex-matched febrile children without convulsions were recruited as controls. Serum zinc estimates were analyzed using a spectrophotometer (Biolis 50i-Autoanalyzer). Statistical Analysis The demographic variables and serum zinc estimates were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney test. The odds ratio was used to calculate the association of zinc deficiency in febrile seizures; 5% level of significance was considered. Results The mean serum concentrations of zinc in the cases and controls were 83.8 ± 33.1 μg/dL and 116.3 ± 30.3 μg/dL, respectively ( p = 0.002). Hypozincemia defined by "a serum zinc level of less than 63 μg/dL" was found in 12 (30%) cases and 2(5%) controls with an odds ratio of 8:1. Conclusion Children with febrile seizures had significantly reduced concentrations of zinc in the serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janani Arul
- Department of Pediatrics, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Puducherry, India
| | | | | | - Lopamudhra Ray
- Department of Biochemistry, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Puducherry, India
| | - Lalitha Krishnan
- Department of Pediatrics, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Puducherry, India
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Ding J, Zhang JW, Guo YX, Zhang YX, Chen ZH, Zhai QX. Novel mutations in SCN9A occurring with fever-associated seizures or epilepsy. Seizure 2019; 71:214-218. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Management of Pediatric Febrile Seizures. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15102232. [PMID: 30321985 PMCID: PMC6210946 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15102232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Febrile seizures (FS), events associated with a fever in the absence of an intracranial infection, hypoglycaemia, or an acute electrolyte imbalance, occur in children between six months and six years of age. FS are the most common type of convulsions in children. FS can be extremely frightening for parents, even if they are generally harmless for children, making it important to address parental anxiety in the most sensitive manner. The aim of this review was to focus on the management of FS in the pediatric age. An analysis of the literature showed that most children with FS have an excellent prognosis, and few develop long-term health problems. The diagnosis of FS is clinical, and it is important to exclude intracranial infections, in particular after a complex FS. Management consists of symptom control and treating the cause of the fever. Parents and caregivers are often distressed and frightened after a FS occurs and need to be appropriately informed and guided on the management of their child’s fever by healthcare professionals. Due to the inappropriate use of diagnostic tests and treatments, it is extremely important to improve the knowledge of pediatricians and neurologists on FS management and to standardize the diagnostic and therapeutic work-up.
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