Drug-resistant epilepsy

Definition

Drug-resistant epilepsy is a neurological condition where seizures cannot be controlled with two or more anti-seizure medications. Treatment often requires alternative approaches such as dietary modifications, surgery, or neurostimulation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Drug-resistant epilepsy affects approximately one-third of individuals with epilepsy.
2. The ketogenic diet has shown effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency in drug-resistant epilepsy.
3. Nutritional deficiencies are common in individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy, necessitating careful dietary planning.
4. Epilepsy surgery is considered when seizures are localized and not responsive to medication.
5. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an alternative treatment that can help reduce seizure frequency in drug-resistant patients.

Review Questions

• What percentage of individuals with epilepsy are affected by drug-resistant epilepsy?
• Which diet has been shown to be effective in managing drug-resistant epilepsy?
• Name an alternative treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy besides dietary changes.

Related terms

Ketogenic Diet:

A high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet used to manage certain neurological conditions including drug-resistant epilepsy.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): A medical treatment involving electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve to reduce seizure frequency.

Epilepsy Surgery: Surgical intervention aimed at removing or isolating the area of the brain causing seizures when medication fails.