Zjawisko fotowrażliwości u dzieci i młodzieży z napięciowymi bólami głowy – jego objawy i sposoby zapobiegania. Doświadczenia własne

Abstract

BackgroundEEG is one of the basic tests in neurological diagnostics. Photostimulation trial is considered to play an important role during the test. It bases on applying an intermittent light stimulus with the use of a stroboscopic lamp. The occurrence of EEG changes in response to photostimulation is called photosensitivity. AimEvaluation of the efficacy of a photostimulation trial in the activation of paroxysmal changes in EEG recordings in children and adolescents with tension headaches. The study also aimed to evaluate an influence of the use of glasses with Z1 lenses (Italian blue) on the reduction of the photosensitivity. Material and methodsThe analysis included 51 patients with tension headaches aged 5–18 years – 12 boys (23%) and 39 girls (76%) diagnosed with photosensitivity of I, II, III or IV type. All patients underwent EEG examination in accordance with medical indications (tension headaches). After the registration of a photosensitivity, in the course of the same study, the EEG recording was repeated with the use of glasses equipped with Z1 filter lenses. ResultsA complete or partial disappearance, or the reduction at least by half of a period or an amplitude of discharges with Z1 filter glasses compared to baseline examination was considered the criterion of an effectiveness of Italian blue lenses. A positive response was achieved in 41 patients (80%). Complete resolution of discharges was achieved in 26 patients (50%) and partial reduction was observed in 15 patients (29%). Ten patients did not respond to Z1 lenses. ConclusionThe use of Italian blue lenses allows to improve EEG recordings in a large percentage of pediatric patients with tension headaches. The use of Z1 lenses can be considered an effective alternative in the reduction adverse effects of the photosensitivity in children and adolescents.