The utility of hematological indices in differentiation between general and focal onset epilepsy

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders with mainly focal and generalized onset types. Discrimination between these types is of paramount importance because the prescription of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) depends on such decimation. Currently this made mainly upon the medical history of the patient. The aim of the study is to evaluate the role of hematological indices in discrimination between focal and generalize onset epilepsy. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study included a total of 100 patients with epilepsy (mean age 21.44±10.5, range 6-52, 67 males and 33 females). Blood samples were collected for the participant and complete blood count (CBC) was performed. Furthermore, serum concentration of K+ and Na+ was determined. Results: There were 38 patients with generalized and 62 patients with focal onset epilepsy. In multivariate initial analysis, each of mean platelet volume (MPV) (odds ratio (OR)= 2.56, 95%CI=1.09-13.22, p= 0.046) and serum Na+ (OR= 3.85, 95%CI=1.13-13.19, p= 0.032) were significantly associated with generalized onset epilepsy. Furthermore, two AEDs: carbamazepine and valproic acid were also independently associated with generalized and local onset epilepsy, respectively. Conclusion: These data indicate the possible utility of MPV in the discrimination between generalized and focal onset epilepsy. However, further studies are required for more reliable conclusions.