Epilepsy in Children: New Research Highlights the Importance of Quality of Life

Strategic Insights -

Children with epilepsy are at increased risk for reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) due to the combined impact of seizures, comorbidities, and social limitations. Research conducted by the Department of Developmental Neurosciences at the IRCCS Foundation Stella Maris in Pisa, Italy, aimed to explore HRQoL in children and adolescents with epilepsy. The study employed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Epilepsy Module (PedsQL-EM) and found that children with lower cognitive abilities and neurological or psychiatric comorbidities may experience social difficulties through the mediation role of HRQoL. The study concluded that integrating behavioral health services into epilepsy care could improve comprehensive assessment and treatment, enhancing overall outcomes for affected children.

Key Takeaways:

  • Children with epilepsy are at increased risk for reduced HRQoL due to seizures, comorbidities, and social limitations.
  • The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Epilepsy Module (PedsQL-EM) is a validated tool for assessing HRQoL in pediatric epilepsies.
  • Lower cognitive abilities and neurological or psychiatric comorbidities may affect social functioning through the mediation role of HRQoL.
  • Integrating behavioral health services into epilepsy care can improve comprehensive assessment and treatment.
  • The study included 119 participants aged 8-18 years, with caregivers completing the Italian PedsQL-EM and the Italian version of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) Social Problems subscale.

Statistics:

  • The study found high internal consistency of the Italian PedsQL-EM, with a total score strongly correlated with lower cognitive performances, neurological, and psychiatric comorbidities (r = 0.72-0.92).
  • The indirect effect of HRQoL on the relationship between clinical severity and social problems was equal to 2.83 (95% CI: 1.374-4.402).
  • The study included 119 participants, with caregivers completing the Italian PedsQL-EM and the Italian version of the CBCL Social Problems subscale.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. New Epilepsy Findings from Department of Developmental Neurosciences Discussed (Health conditions and social problems in children and adolescents with epilepsy: The role of quality of life by employing the PedsQL-EM). Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 20, 2025; p 496.
  • Alessi, D., et al. (2025). Health conditions and social problems in children and adolescents with epilepsy: The role of quality of life by employing the PedsQL-EM. Epilepsy & Behavior, 172, 110747.