Epilepsy and Cluster C Personality Disorders: A Saudi Cross-Sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder with profound impacts on various aspects of life. It may lead to significant medical and psychiatric comorbidities, one of which is personality disorders (PDs). This study aims to assess the prevalence of Cluster C PDs among adult patients with epilepsy (PWE) at a tertiary care hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

METHOD: This cross-sectional study, conducted between January 2024 and April 2025, enroled 360 adult PWE using convenience sampling. The study tool included the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM Disorders criteria, along with additional demographic and epilepsy-related questions developed by the research team.

RESULTS

Cluster C PDs were identified in 30. 6% of the participants. Obsessive-compulsive PD was the most prevalent (17. 8%), followed by avoidant PD (9.7%). No significant gender difference was found in the prevalence of PDs (p > 0.05). Educational level and employment status were significantly associated with PDs (p=0.036 and 0.014, respectively). Participants with PDs had a longer mean epilepsy duration than those without PDs (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Cluster C PDs are prevalent among PWE, with lower educational levels, longer epilepsy duration, and unemployment being significantly associated with a higher prevalence. Screening for PDs among PWE is therefore warranted to enable earlier detection and intervention.