Clinical profile and electroencephalogram characteristics of children with self-limited epilepsy with centro-temporal spikes attending paediatric neurology clinic, Teaching Hospital, Karapitiya, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Introduction: Self-limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (SLECTS) is the commonest type of epilepsy in childhood. Though considered benign in the past, there is growing evidence of its multiple neuropsychiatric involvement. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were not recommended in children with SLECTS due to its benign nature.Objectives: To describe the clinical profile and electroencephalogram (EEG) characteristics of children with SLECTS followed up at the paediatric neurology unit, Teaching Hospital Karapitiya. Method:A descriptive cross-sectional study, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire, was carried out at the paediatric neurology clinic, THK from December 2021 to February 2022. Results:A total of 113 children with SLECTS was included in the study. Of them, 61.1% were males. Mean age of sample was 10±2.8 years. Mean age of onset of seizures was 7±2.5 years; 87.5% were diagnosed after one seizure episode and 13.3% had a history of febrile seizures. Developmental delay was evident among 5 (4.4%) patients. Speech arrest (91.2%), hypersalivation (74.3%) and hemifacial sensory-motor seizures (56.6%) were the main manifestations; 87.6% had seizures at night. Abnormal EEGs were found in 110 (97.3%) patients and 51.3% had bilateral typical SLECTS changes in the EEG. Twenty-seven (23.9%) parents had concerns about their children's school performance.