Abstract

The progressive myoclonic epilepsies syndrome (PME) is a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders characterized by myoclonus, progressive motor and cognitive abnormalities, sensory and cerebellar symptoms, abnormal slowing of the basic bioelectrical activity at electroencephalography, and normal cognitive functions and normal development of the patient before manifestation of the disease. Generalized spike-wave complexes at electroencephalography have been also described as an obligatory symptom. The Unverricht-Lundborg disease is a distinct entity within the group with specific age at manifestation (7 to 13 years), as well as slow cognitive and motor decline with stabilization in the adult age. In 90% of the cases, the diagnosis is confirmed by identification of the expanded nucleotide duplicates in the CSTB gene. An adequately tailored anticonvulsant treatment can stabilize and improve the patient's condition. The anticonvulsant therapy should not include sodium channel blockers. Valproate sodium is considered to be the main agent; it is usually combined with levetiracetam/zonisamide/topiramate/benzodiazepins. In the recent years, perampanel has been also used as a part of the combination treatment.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.