The course of inattentive and hyperactive–impulsive symptoms in children with new onset seizures

The purpose of the present study was to determine the prevalence of inattentive and hyperactive–impulsive symptoms in children with newly diagnosed epilepsy, explore the course of these symptoms over time, and examine factors associated with change in these symptoms. Parents of children ( n=42) were administered the Attention Deficit Disorder Evaluation Scale—Home Version (ADDES-HV) at the time of diagnosis. The ADDES-HV was readministered after the child’s seizures were controlled. Prior to initiation of anticonvulsant therapy, 31% of the children were rated as having clinically significant problems with inattention and 31% with hyperactivity–impulsivity. At follow-up, 27% had elevated symptoms of inattention and 24% had hyperactivity–impulsivity. Analysis of this change indicated that children with a normal MRI were more likely to have decreased hyperactive–impulsive behaviors following control of their seizures. Results suggest the need for assessment and monitoring of attention in children with epilepsy.