CURRENT PERSPECTIVES ON DEVELOPMENTAL AND EPILEPTIC ENCEPHALOPATHIES IN PEDIATRICS
Abstract
This article provides a comprehensive review of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) in pediatric patients, highlighting current perspectives on their etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment approaches, and prognosis. DEEs are a group of severe neurological disorders characterized by refractory seizures, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. Advances in genetic research, particularly through next-generation sequencing, have significantly enhanced the diagnosis of these disorders and enabled more targeted therapeutic interventions. The article examines well-known epileptic syndromes associated with DEEs, including Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and CDKL5 deficiency disorder, discussing their clinical manifestations and genetic underpinnings. In addition, it explores the importance of early diagnosis, genetic testing, and the role of novel treatment strategies such as precision medicine, dietary interventions, and adjunctive therapies. Despite ongoing challenges, recent advances in treatment have provided new hope for improving the quality of life for affected children. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach and continuous research to better understand the pathophysiology and optimize treatment options for DEEs.
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