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Review
. 2021 Apr;11(2):e112-e120.
doi: 10.1212/CPJ.0000000000000874.

Psychiatric Comorbidities in People With Epilepsy

Marco Mula  1 , Andres M Kanner  1 , Nathalie Jetté  1 , Josemir W Sander  1
Affiliations
Review

Psychiatric Comorbidities in People With Epilepsy

Marco Mula et al. Neurol Clin Pract. 2021 Apr.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review the latest evidence concerning the epidemiology, clinical implications, and management of psychiatric disorders in epilepsy.

Recent findings: People with epilepsy have a 2-5 times increased risk of developing any psychiatric disorder, and 1 in 3 patients with epilepsy have a lifetime psychiatric diagnosis. Psychiatric comorbidities represent a poor prognostic marker as they have been associated with a poor response to treatment (drugs and surgery), increased morbidity, and mortality. Validated screening instruments are available for mood and anxiety disorders in adults as well as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children with epilepsy.

Summary: All patients with epilepsy should be routinely screened for psychiatric disorder at the onset and at least once a year. Patients with epilepsy and their relatives should be informed of the risk of mental health problems and the implications.

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