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Epilepsy

Self-Limited Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes in Younger Ages: Worse Prognosis

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Children diagnosed with self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (SeLECTS) in younger ages face a worse prognosis, with a higher need for antiepileptic medications for effective seizure management. According to a recent study, patients under the age of 5 require a greater number of antiepileptic medications, and their seizures are less controlled. The research analyzed 198 patients with SeLECTS, divided into two subgroups: those under the age of 5 and those over the age of 5. The study found significant differences in the number of antiepileptics needed and the duration of control of seizures between the two age groups.

Key Takeaways:

  • Children diagnosed with SeLECTS in younger ages (under 5) require a higher number of antiepileptic medications for seizure control compared to those diagnosed at an older age (over 5).
  • The study included 198 patients with SeLECTS, divided into two subgroups: 54 under the age of 5 and 144 over the age of 5.
  • Patients under the age of 5 have a longer duration of seizures and require more than one antiepileptic medication for seizure control.
  • The study found significant statistical differences between the two age groups, with patients under 5 requiring more antiepileptic medications and having less controlled seizures.
  • The study included a pediatric cohort of children with SeLECTS, with patient data and follow-up observations documented between 2012 and 2023.
  • The research concluded that patients with SeLECTS in younger ages face a worse prognosis and require more intensive treatment for effective seizure management.
  • The study's findings highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for children with SeLECTS to improve their seizure control and long-term prognosis.

Statistics:

  • 186 patients (94%) had a normal electroencephalogram (EEG) pattern.
  • 12 patients (6%) had an abnormal EEG pattern.
  • The mean duration of seizures was 2.1 years in the under-5 age group and 1.3 years in the over-5 age group (P = 0.041).
  • The mean number of antiepileptic medications was 2.5 in the under-5 age group and 1.8 in the over-5 age group (P = 0.02).
  • 64 patients (32.3%) in the under-5 age group required more than one antiepileptic medication for seizure control.

Sources:

  • Furkan Donbaloglu, Mehpare Sari Yanartas, Chakan Tsakir, Ozlem Yayici Koken, and Senay Haspolat. Self-Limited Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes in Younger Ages: Worse but Real! Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, 2025.
  • NewsRx. Researchers from Akdeniz University Report on Findings in Epilepsy (Self-Limited Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes in Younger Ages: Worse but Real!). Health & Medicine Week. October 31, 2025; p 6391.

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