A comprehensive assessment of cognitive function in the common genetic generalized epilepsy syndromes.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Considered to be benign conditions, the common genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE) syndromes are now known to be frequently accompanied by cognitive dysfunction. However, unresolved issues impede clinical management of this common comorbidity, including which cognitive abilities are most affected, whether there are differences between syndromes and how seizure type and mood symptoms affect cognitive dysfunction. We provide a detailed description of cognitive ability and evaluate factors contributing to cognitive dysfunction.

METHODS

A total of 76 adults with GGE were assessed with the Woodcock Johnson III Tests of Cognitive Abilities.

RESULTS

Scores on tests of overall cognitive ability, acquired knowledge, long-term retrieval and speed of information processing were significantly below the normative mean. Long-term retrieval was a pronounced weakness with a large reduction in scores (d = 0.84). GGE syndrome, seizure type and the presence of recent psychopathology symptoms were not significantly associated with cognitive function.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms previous meta-analytic findings with a prospective study, offers new insights into the cognitive comorbidity of these common epilepsy syndromes and reinforces the need for cognitive interventions in people with GGE.