Journal on Developmental Disabilities
Le journal sur les handicaps du développement

Abstract

Epilepsy is common in patients with developmental disability. The approaches used to diagnose and treat patients with developmental delay and epilepsy may differ from those used for other patients and require additional special attention. This article reviews developmental disorders in which epilepsy is comorbid and treatment strategies that are used for patients that present with both disorders. It outlines the value of pharmacological and surgical treatments depending on the individual patient, and highlights the need for monitoring nutritional status. The importance of collaboration and cooperation from an interdisciplinary team to enhance functioning and to achieve optimal quality of care for the patient is discussed. In addition to the current knowledge and practices regarding medical treatment for patients with epilepsy and developmental disorders, this article indicates what is currently not known and what needs further research and documentation. Unusual terms used in this article are explained in a glossary.

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