Pediatric Epilepsy and its Health Conditions in UAE: A Review Article

Abstract

Epilepsy is one of the major public health concerns in Arab countries, as it contains a total of 80% of cases worldwide. There are two age peaks for onset: childhood and adulthood, but children experience the highest burden. Epilepsy in childhood can have an impact on educational performance as well as psychological and social interaction. Epileptic patients are also susceptible to a wide range of other frequent health issues. The co-morbidities often cause more burdens and difficulties than the seizures themselves. Pathologically, epilepsy is of three types: acquired, idiopathic, and developmental or genetic origin. The disease is based on glutamate and GABA excitation and inhibition, respectively. EEG, MRI, PET, SPECT, and CT scan are among the main diagnostic procedures available for the treatment. This review covered all the research studies published in peer-reviewed journals on Web of Science between 2014 and 2024. It focused on seeking a better understanding of epilepsy, its kinds, accessible therapies, and co-morbidities by providing significant insights that can benefit the UAE’s healthcare system. EEG and MRI are the two effective techniques used for epilepsy treatment. The UAE healthcare system should focus on adopting the genetic basis of the disease for a precise and targeted treatment.