Learning disabilities and behavioural problems in children with epilepsy

Abstract

Children with epilepsy, as a group, are at special risk of developing learning and behavioural problems, but many individual biological and environmental factors are contributary. In general, 60% of children with epilepsy have normal intelligence. The intellectual capacities are determined by genetic factors, by frequency of fits and type of epilepsy, and, especially by the presence of brain damage. In cases with learning disabilities, difficulties with written or spoken language memory disorders or behavioural disturbances, left temporal lobe epilepsy is found to a greater extent than expected. Many behavioural traits described in the so-called epileptic personality can also be encountered in non-epileptic persons, and, therefore, are non-specific. Confronted with learning and behavioural problems in children with epilepsy it can be stated that, in general, brain damage is more important than transient epileptic dysfunctions. Because many aspects of cognitive and emotional behaviour are more or less influenced by antiepileptic drug treatment, one should be very careful in prescribing drugs for chronic use in a developing individual. As important as the organic aspects are the many non-organic or psychological factors. Non-acceptance, misunderstanding and frustration of the parents have a direct impact on the self-concept of the child with epilepsy.