Does the Epileptic Side (Left, Right, Bilateral) Differently Impair the Cognitive Functioning in Patients with Benign Childhood Epilepsy with Centro-Temporal Spikes (BECTS)? A Literature Review

Abstract

In Canada, Epilepsy affects approximately 3 to 6 per 1000 children between the ages of 0 and 15. Of these children, 15-25% suffer from benign epilepsy with centro-temporal spikes (BECTS), making BECTS the most common benign childhood focal epileptic syndrome. Although BECTS is classified as a benign syndrome, cognitive and behavioral impairments have consistently been demonstrated during the active phase and after remission [1-3]. Impact of the side of epileptic foci on cognitive development however remains unclear. Among 269 articles from 1806 to 2016 reviewed, 17 articles have specifically addressed the impact of the side of epileptic foci on the cognitive functioning. Our review suggests that the epileptic side is more deleterious to cognitive functions specifically sub served by the same hemisphere. However, for reasons that remain unclear, other cognitive functions may also be affected. We recommend that these children benefit from a neuropsychological follow-up.