| Abstract [eng] |
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in children, which can have a significant impact on their cognitive development and overall quality of life. Early-onset epilepsy can disrupt brain development, leading to cognitive impairments, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems. The severity of these effects depends on factors such as the age at seizure onset, seizure type, frequency, duration, and the effectiveness of treatment with anti-epileptic drugs. In case of drug-resistant epilepsy, alternative treatments like surgery, neuromodulation, or lifestyle modifications may be necessary. Proper management of epilepsy is crucial not only for seizure control but also for improving cognitive outcomes. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to start appropriate treatment promptly. It is recommended that all patients with epilepsy undergo cognitive function assessments at least once in their lifetime. If cognitive function disorders are identified, support should be provided to help the patient adapt in society. This paper presents a clinical case of a 17-year-11-month-old boy with generalized idiopathic reflex drug-resistant epilepsy. The patient experienced seizures since early childhood and was initially diagnosed with West syndrome. The study analyzes the characteristics of the patient's disease and the results of cognitive function assessments. Additionally, it reviews the latest scientific literature on the etiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and comorbidities of epilepsy. The treatment of epilepsy is discussed in detail, considering various factors that influence the selection of appropriate treatments, including the potential effects of drugs on cognitive function. The paper also provides an extensive description of cognitive functions in children with epilepsy. |
