Characteristics of cognitive functions in children with epilepsy.

The aim of the present work was to study the causes and structure of interictal cognitive and emotionalpersonality impairments in children with different types of epilepsy. A total of 40 children were studied, aged from eight to 18 years. Symptomatic epilepsy was diagnosed in 31 patients (77.5%) and idiopathic epilepsy in nine (22.5%). Cognitive functions were compared in relation to the type of epilepsy, type of seizures, and treatment with antiepileptic and its efficacy. The results showed that intellectual-mnestic disorders were seen in 62% of children with epilepsy, more profound impairments being seen in patients with generalized epileptic seizures. Achievement of stable remission from seizures was associated with good recovery of cognitive functions; in the absence of treatment with antiepileptic agents and when treatment was ineffective, there were marked disorders to the intellectual-mnestic sphere.