P1-4. Sequential EEG changes in benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes in relation to seizure recurrence

Abstract

The prognosis of benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BCECTS) is considered favorable. A moderate proportion of patients present isolated seizures; however, continuous treatment should be considered only in patients with frequent seizures. Clinical and electroencephalographical (EEG) markers should be sought to predict seizure recurrence. The purpose of our study was to determine the EEG criteria in relation to seizure recurrence in BCECTS. The recurrent seizure group consisted of 10 children (aged 3–7 years; male:female = 6:4). The isolated seizure group consisted of 12 children (aged 4–7 years; male:female = 6:6). We scored occurrences of the number of spikes and evaluated the presence of rolandic discharges (RD) in awaking record. All patients were evaluated longitudinally, clinically and by EEG. Repeated EEG recordings were obtained for all patients every 3 months. Careful clinical and EEG follow-up for at least 4 years was performed for all patients. Significant correlations were found between seizure recurrence and extended periods of high-frequency paroxysmal EEG abnormalities together with the presence of RD in awaking record. These results suggest that in addition to the presence of RD in awaking record, a combination of spike frequency and extended periods of high-frequency paroxysmal EEG abnormalities may predict seizure recurrence in BCECTS.