Abstract
Objective To assess awareness on anti-epileptic therapy among parents of epileptic children. Setting Epilepsy clinic, University Paediatric Unit, Colombo South Teaching Hospital. Study population All patients registered in clinic, followed up for at least 3 months. Method An interviewer administered questionnaire was used covering 16 aspects of anti-epileptic therapy. Responses for each aspect were graded as excellent (70% or >), good (50-69%) or poor (<50%). Results Parents of 58 children were interviewed. 100% parents had been advised on general aspects of epilepsy and 92% on principles of anti-epileptic drug (AED) therapy. In 93% this knowledge had been imparted to parents by a medical officer. In 96% this advice had been given at onset of treatment and in 64% it had been reinforced subsequently. A 'good' or 'excellent' response was obtained in 11 aspects of AED therapy whilst a 'poor' response was obtained in the remaining 5 aspects. Conclusions Parental awareness of certain aspects of AED therapy needs to be improved.
Highlights
Epilepsy is the most common neurologic disease in children and adolescents[1]
Parents of 58 children were interviewed. 100% parents had been advised on general aspects of epilepsy and 92% on principles of anti-epileptic drug (AED) therapy
A 'good' or 'excellent' response was obtained in 11 aspects of AED therapy whilst a 'poor' response was obtained in the remaining 5 aspects
Summary
Epilepsy is the most common neurologic disease in children and adolescents[1]. The rate of new diagnoses (i.e. the incidence rate) of childhood epilepsy ranged from 20/100,000 to 375/100,000 dependent on age group, gender and country[1]. Epilepsy in childhood generally has a good prognosis[2]. Most types respond well to conventional anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) which have to be used over a prolonged period. Continuation of AEDs without interruption is vital. Continuation of AEDs without interruption is vital. 1Registrar, 2House Officer, Professorial Unit, Colombo South Teaching Hospital, 3Senior Lecturer in Paediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayawardenepura.
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