Lennox-Gastaut syndrome unveiled: Advancing diagnosis, therapies, and advocacy-insights from the Genoa International Workshop

Abstract

Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is one of the most severe, yet one of the most discussed, childhood-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). Dissent among epileptologists on the definition and minimum set of electroclinical features derives from the high etiological heterogeneity within the syndrome, which could make its prevalence overestimated. However, in recent years, our diagnostic strategies, including both high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging and next-generation sequencing techniques, have enabled us to disentangle many cases previously classified as "idiopathic." In addition, some electroencephalographic and circulating biomarkers have been identified that could predict disease progression and treatment response if confirmed in larger patient populations. As our diagnostic capacity increases, so do our treatment strategies. Although progress has been made, the implementation of better clinical trial designs, individualized treatments, and therapies that address the genetic roots of the disease remains necessary in clinical practice. A lot is being done in this direction, thanks to the involvement of families and the creation of international networks, such as the ERNs, which are rapidly promoting collaboration among highly specialized centers and the establishment of disease registries to shed light on the natural history of LGS. Yet, many unmet needs still afflict patients and their families, including uncertainties arising from the transition process and a lack of administrative support and comprehensive care as patients transition into adulthood. This article summarizes these key challenges in diagnosing, treating, and caring for patients with LGS, as well as the roadmap to enhanced future care discussed during the international LGS meeting held in Genoa.

Keywords: Lennox–Gastaut; epilepsy; multidisciplinary care; patient advocacy.