[Hemicrania and photosensitive epilepsy in pediatric age].

OBJECTIVE

Photosensitive epilepsy is joined to headache. Aim of the present study was the follow up of children suffering from headaches in order to verify if headache can be the only symptom of epileptic photosensitivity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirteen children affected by headache were examined. They were screened on the basis of photosensitivity showed on the EEG. During following 6 patients had seizures.

RESULTS

Antiepileptic drugs (VPA, CBZ, CZM) improved seizures and headache. In the others patients migraine therapy improved epileptic photosensitivity on the EEG.

CONCLUSIONS

Headache can be the only symptom of epileptic photosensitivity. Migraine and photosensitive epilepsy in childhood are of particular interest because of growing features of occipital lobe. This has therapeutic significance.