The objective of this cross-sectional study was to examine the long-term functional and adaptive behavior of adult patients with LGS. The study cohort was comprised of 38 adult patients diagnosed with LGS according to the recently published International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) diagnostic criteria. The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Survey Interview, Second Edition (VABS-II) measured the participants’ adaptive behavior. At different times, demographic, clinical, electroencephalography (EEG), and antiseizure medication (ASM) data were gathered and reviewed to examine their correlations with VABS-II scores.
The results revealed that all patients scored low on the Adaptive Behavior Composite Scale, and when examining individual VABS-II domains, notably low scores were observed in daily living skills and socialization. Communication was reported as having a marginally better performance.
The most important predictor of poorer adaptive outcomes in adulthood was being diagnosed with LGS at an earlier age. During the study evaluation, high seizure frequency, augmented EEG background slowing, and multifocal EEG epileptiform abnormalities were significantly correlated with lower VABS-II raw scores. Additionally, exploratory correlation analysis with ASM regimens at the study visit revealed that treatment with cannabidiol was associated with higher adaptive behavior scores, while use of benzodiazepines was associated with lower scores.
The results of this study highlighted the substantial adaptive behavior impairments and related clinical and EEG features in adults with LGS, provided a detailed neuropsychological profile, and stressed the need for comprehensive care beyond seizure control.
Based on their findings, the authors concluded, “This study offers valuable insights into the long-term functional and adaptive outcomes for adults with LGS, highlighting the ongoing challenges in managing this condition and the potential association of specific clinical features and ASM regimens with adaptive behavior. It underscores the importance of comprehensive epilepsy care, considering not only seizure control but also the broader impact on the functional abilities of patients.”
The authors added, “Future research into the potential effect of different ASM on the adaptive levels of individuals with LGS is warranted, as well as on targeted rehabilitation interventions that may aid in improving the quality of life in patients and caregivers.”
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