Editors' note: Behavioral interventions as a treatment for epilepsy: A multicenter randomized controlled trial

Abstract

“Behavioral interventions as a treatment for epilepsy: A multicenter randomized controlled trial” aimed to evaluate the effect of a stress reduction intervention in participants with medication-resistant epilepsy. Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) with diaphragmatic breathing and control focused-attention activity with extremity movements showed reduced seizure frequency compared to baseline in patients with medication-resistant focal seizures. However, PMR was more effective than focused attention in reducing self-reported stress. Commenting on the article, Dr. Sethi points out that there is no evidence to prove causality of stress as a seizure precipitant and that the study only proves that, with neurobehavioral interventions designed to reduce stress, patients report fewer seizures. He suggests using objective data such as portable (ambulatory) EEG recording systems to quantify seizure frequency change after neurobehavioral interventions. In response, authors Haut et al. explain that self-report of seizures is the standard outcome measure in both the clinical setting and pharmacologic trials. They hope to have the opportunity to utilize emerging technologies for documenting seizure outcomes in future planned studies. “Behavioral interventions as a treatment for epilepsy: A multicenter randomized controlled trial” aimed to evaluate the effect of a stress reduction intervention in participants with medication-resistant epilepsy. Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) with diaphragmatic breathing and control focused-attention activity with extremity movements showed reduced seizure frequency compared to baseline in patients with medication-resistant focal seizures.