Transition from paediatric to adult care in paediatric-onset neurological disorders in Europe: A survey and scoping review.

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to assess the availability of national transition guidelines in paediatric neurology across Europe and to provide a review of the existing literature.

METHODS

A mixed-methods descriptive study was conducted, combining a survey of national representatives of the European Paediatric Neurology Society and a scoping literature review. The survey, performed in 2021 with an update in 2026, assessed the existence of national or officially endorsed transition guidelines. The literature review (2002-2025) followed the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR recommendations.

RESULTS

Thirty-six of 42 representatives responded to the 2021 survey; 66.7% reported no national transition guidelines in paediatric neurology, while 16.7% reported officially endorsed guidance. The literature search identified 23372 records, of which 132 publications were included in the final analysis. Most described centre-based transition models or general recommendations, while formal guidelines were rare. Drawing on the gaps identified through literature review and survey findings, this paper proposes a series of targeted recommendations to enhance the transition process in paediatric neurology.

CONCLUSIONS

Transition guidance in paediatric neurology remains limited and heterogeneous across Europe. Specific recommendations are needed to provide guidance and enhance the effectiveness of this process. An EPNS-EAN Transition Task Force is currently developing a transition framework.