Electrolyte Therapy for Refractory Seizures in Familial
Dysautonomia
Dr. Juan G. Ochoa, University of Florida, Neuroscience Institute, November 2004
Summary: Purpose: Video-EEG in a family of three patients with
slow development and familial
dysautonomia demonstrated absence seizures associated
with 3-Hz generalized spike-and-wave
discharges. The seizures were refractory
to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).
Methods: Treatment was given with rice-based cereal electrolyte oral solution.
Results: Treatment induced seizure freedom and normalization
of EEG in all three patients. Repeated
video-EEG monitoring with discontinuation
of AEDs
and maintenance of the oral hydration therapy was
associated with recurrence
of epileptic activity. All three patients have remained seizure free ( 1
year)
with a combination of topiramate and electrolytic therapy.
Conclusions: Rice-based
oral electrolyte hydration therapy may play a role in prevention and control
of seizures in patients with familial dysautonomia.
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Epilepsia, 45(11):1461-1462,
2004
Blackwell Publishing Inc.
©2004 International League Against Epilepsy