Publication
Title
Genetics of epilepsy syndromes starting in the first year of life
Author
Abstract
Background: Incidence rates of epilepsy in children are highest during the first year of life. Most frequently, epilepsy results from a metabolic or structural defect in the brain. However, some infants have clearly delineated epilepsy syndromes for which no underlying etiology can be identified except for a genetic predisposition. Methods: We reviewed the current knowledge on the genetics of epilepsy syndromes starting in the first year of life. We focus on those epilepsy syndromes without a clear structural or metabolic etiology. Results: Recent molecular studies have led to the identification of the responsible gene defects for several of the monogenetic epilepsy syndromes with onset in the first year of life. Discussion: This knowledge has consequences for clinical practice as it opens new perspectives for genetic testing, improving early diagnosis, and facilitating genetic counseling. This overview of epilepsy syndromes and associated gene defects might serve as a basis for the selection of patients in whom genetic testing can be helpful.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Neurology / American Academy of Neurology. - Minneapolis, Minn
Publication
Minneapolis, Minn : 2009
ISSN
0028-3878
DOI
10.1212/01.WNL.0000339494.76377.D6
Volume/pages
72 :3 (2009) , p. 273-281
ISI
000262624300013
Pubmed ID
19153375
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 07.05.2009
Last edited 21.08.2024
To cite this reference