Brain tumor related-epilepsy

Publication date: Available online 30 June 2018Source: Neurologia i Neurochirurgia PolskaAuthor(s): Eric D. Goldstein, Anteneh M. FeyissaAbstractIntroductionGliomas are commonly associated with the development of epilepsy; in some cases the two conditions share common pathogenic mechanisms and may influence each other. Brain tumor related-epilepsy (BTRE) complicates the clinical management of gliomas and can substantially affect daily life.State of the artThe incidence of seizures is high in patients with slow growing tumors located in the frontotemporal regions. However, recent studies suggest that epileptogenesis may be more associated with tumor molecular genetic markers than tumor grade or location. Although the exact mechanism of epileptogenesis in glioma is incompletely understood, glutamate-induced excitotoxicity and disruption of intracellular communication have garnered the most attention.Clinical managementManagement of BTRE requires a multidisciplinary approach involving the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), surgery aided by electrocorticography, and adjuvant chemoradiation.Future directionsInsight into the mechanisms of glioma growth and epileptogenesis is essential to identify new treatment targets and to develop effective treatment for both conditions. Selecting AEDs tailored to act against known tumor molecular markers involved in the epileptogenesis could enhance treatment value and help inform individualized medicine in BRTE.
Source: Polish Journal of Neurology and Neurosurgery - Category: Neurosurgery Source Type: research