Electrolyte therapy for refractory seizures in familial dysautonomia.
OBJECTIVE
Video-EEG in a family of three patients with slow development and familial dysautonomia demonstrated absence seizures associated with 3-Hz generalized spike-and-wave discharges. The seizures were refractory to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).


METHODS
Treatment was given with rice-based cereal electrolyte oral solution.


RESULTS
Treatment induced seizure freedom and normalization of EEG in all three patients. Repeated video-EEG monitoring with discontinuation of AEDs and maintenance of the oral hydration therapy was associated with recurrence of epileptic activity. All three patients have remained seizure free (approximately 1 year) with a combination of topiramate and electrolytic therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Rice-based oral electrolyte hydration therapy may play a role in prevention and control of seizures in patients with familial dysautonomia.
Ochoa
Juan G
JG
D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002241:Carbohydrates / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002951:Citrates / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015897:Comorbidity; D004402:Dysautonomia, Familial / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*; D004573:Electrolytes / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D012275:Oryza; D011188:Potassium / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015532:Rehydration Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D012964:Sodium / Q000008:administration & dosage; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D002241:Carbohydrates; D002951:Citrates; D004573:Electrolytes; D015532:Rehydration Solutions; D012964:Sodium; D011188:Potassium