title: Diagnosis and management of childhood epilepsy.
abstract: Epilepsy is a relatively common neurologic disorder in children that has important implications for development, parents, and society. Making the correct diagnosis starts with an accurate and complete history that consequently leads to a directed diagnostic workup. This article outlines a diagnostic and management approach to pediatric seizures and epilepsy syndromes. Making the correct diagnosis of epilepsy or nonepileptic imitators allows the practitioner to prescribe appropriate therapy. Initial management for typical epileptic syndromes and seizures and potential adverse effects are discussed. Alternative treatment options for pharmacologically resistant patients such as ketogenic diet, vagal nerve stimulation, and surgery are also discussed. While most children favorably respond to antiepileptic medications, early identification of medication failure is important to ensure optimal neurodevelopment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL.
authors.forename: Abdullah
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Tolaymat
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL.
authors.forename: Anuranjita
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Nayak
authors.affiliation: Alabama Sleep Medicine, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL; Alabama Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Tuscaloosa, AL.
authors.forename: James D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Geyer
authors.affiliation: Alabama Sleep Medicine, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL; Alabama Neurology and Sleep Medicine, Tuscaloosa, AL.
authors.forename: Sydney K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Geyer
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL; Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL.
authors.forename: Paul R
authors.initials: PR
authors.lastname: Carney
mesh_terms: D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000379:methods; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D003294:Seizures, Febrile / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants