Predictors of outcome in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy

Abstract

Background: Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) is the most common idiopathic generalized epilepsy syndrome, accounting for 10% of all epilepsy. However, there is limited information regarding the predictors of seizure outcome. The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of seizure outcome in JME patients. Methods: A population-based retrospective study of JME patients who were treated at the Department of Neurology of affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University from 2008 to 2013. Results: Sixty-three patients (30 women and 33 men) were enrolled in this study. The median age at seizure onset was 14 years old, and the average duration of epilepsy was 5 years. The onset of JME at age <16 years was found in 63.5% of patients. The epileptiform runs ≥3 s were observed in 35.8% patients. Febrile seizure was noted in 28.9% of patients. Among 63 patients, 40 patients (63.5%) had remission. Multivariate analysis identified the following factors as significant predictors of seizure outcome: the onset of JME at age <16 years, epileptiform runs ≥3 s runs, and febrile seizure. Conclusion: The onset of JME at age <16 years, febrile seizures and epileptiform runs ≥3 s might be associated with poor long-term seizure outcome in patients with JME.