Shows
Sharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastIntellectual disability and epilepsy: A patient-centered perspectiveSend comments and feedbackAbout 1 in 5 people with an intellectual disability (ID) also have epilepsy; among those with profound ID, 1 in 2 also will have epilepsy. In general, people with an ID have higher mortality rates and more chronic conditions than people without an ID; they also face significant health care disparities. Researchers interviewed people with both epilepsy and an ID to understand what they knew about their epilepsy, how they accessed care, and what epilepsy-related information they wanted to have. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical...
2026-01-1923 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAcute symptomatic seizures: Dr. Marian GalovicSend comments and feedbackWhile as many as 1 in 3 first seizures are acute symptomatic seizures, these seizures receive relatively little attention during training. Dr. Ching Soong Khoo speaks with Dr. Marian Galovic about the etiology and management of acute symptomatic seizures and how they may inform outcomes and future epilepsy risk.Mentioned during the episode:The SeLECT Consortium predictepilepsy.com The SeLECT model of developing epilepsy after ischemic strokeThe CAVE model of developing epilepsy after hemorrhagic strokeThe 2HELPS2B score to...
2026-01-0527 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDravet Syndrome: Dr. Ingrid SchefferSend comments and feedbackThe latest on Dravet syndrome: Diagnosis, genetic testing, comorbidities, treatment, and more. Dr. Parthvi Ravat interviews Dr. Ingrid Scheffer. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where no person's life is limited by epilepsy. Visit us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
2025-12-0827 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDrug-resistant epilepsy: Dr. Patrick KwanSend comments and feedbackAbout one-third of people with epilepsy will continue having seizures despite medications. What is the clinical definition of drug-resistant epilepsy? Why does it occur, and is it possible to predict? Dr. Cecilie Nome interviews Dr. Patrick Kwan.Relevant papers:Definition of drug resistant epilepsy: Consensus proposal by the ad hoc Task Force of the ILAE Commission on Therapeutic Strategies - Kwan - 2010 - Epilepsia - Wiley Online LibraryThe costs of epilepsy in Australia | Neurology Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and...
2025-11-2432 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastNormalizing depression in epilepsy: Screening, diagnosis, treatment - Dr. Rosa MichaelisSend comments and feedbackNearly 1 in 4 people with epilepsy experiences depression, which affects quality of life, seizure control, and adherence to treatment. Depressive symptoms - including suicidality - are one of the strongest predictors of poor quality of life in people with epilepsy, and they can be overlooked or minimized both by people with epilepsy and by clinicians. Sharp Waves spoke with Dr. Rosa Michaelis about the role of neurologists in discussing, screening, diagnosing, and treating depression as a crucial part of patient care. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not...
2025-11-1022 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastA novel patient-reported outcome measure for epilepsy: The impacts of seizures and treatmentSend comments and feedbackIs there a fast, simple way to measure whether someone with epilepsy is doing "better" or "worse" compared with a past clinic visit? Not really. Seizure count is often considered a standard, but multiple small seizures may have less impact on someone's life than a single generalized tonic-clonic seizure. In this episode, we talk with authors of a study on an outcome measure that factors the impact of seizures as well as the impact of treatments.The study: Validation of the seizure-related impact assessment scale
2025-10-2718 min
Epilepsy Sparks InsightsILAE Academy: Global Training for Epilepsy Clinicians - Prof. Gagandeep SinghThe ILAE Academy is changing how clinicians and researchers learn about the epilepsies! Prof. Gagandeep Singh, Chair of the ILAE Education Council, joins Torie to explain how this innovative, self-paced, and structured platform is helping to shape the next generation of epilepsy specialists!
We discuss:
What the ILAE Academy is and who it’s for
How it keeps up with new discoveries
Why accessibility and affordability matter
The future of interactive, AI-based learning
🔗 More about episode (inc. transcription) 👇🏻
https://www.torierobinson.com/epilepsy-sparks-insights/gagandeep-singh-ilae-academy
🤩 More...
2025-10-1618 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastSocial work in epilepsy: Closing the treatment gap and improving quality of life - Dr. Rugare MugumbateSend comments and feedbackClosing the epilepsy treatment gap relies heavily on social and cultural acceptance of epilepsy as a brain disorder that can be managed with medication or other therapies. Dr. Rugare Mugumbate discusses the five disadvantages faced by people with epilepsy, as well as the important role of social workers and the need to focus on lessons learned from previous pilot projects and awareness campaigns.Dr. Mugumbate's book - Epilepsy in Resource Limited Settings: Managing Quality of Life - provides a thorough examination of the impact and understanding of epilepsy in resource-limited areas.
2025-10-1330 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastSomatic genetic epilepsies: Dr. Christian BosselmannSend comments and feedbackSomatic genetic epilepsies arise from mutations that occur early in fetal development. They are usually only detectable by genetic sequencing of tissue. For these epilepsies, the timing of the mutation is key: For example, research has shown that focal cortical dysplasia type IIB and hemimegaloencephaly are genetically the same disease, but arise from somatic mutations at different developmental time points. This relatively new area of research is discussed by Dr. Alina Ivaniuk and Dr. Christian Bosselmann.Resources:Analysis of 1,386 epileptogenic brain lesions reveals association with DYRK1A...
2025-09-2931 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastResearch recap: Empiric immunotherapy for highly refractory epilepsy: Dr. Elisabeth DoranSend comments and feedbackIn a retrospective study of 31 patients with highly refractory epilepsy, 29% had more than a 50% reduction in seizures for at least 12 months after being treated with immunotherapy. Three of these patients became seizure free. Other than a trend toward a diagnosis of focal epilepsy, researchers did not identify any specific features predictive of treatment response. Sharp Waves spoke with the first author about the study and its implications.The study was published in Epilepsia in April 2025. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or me...
2025-09-0812 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastGenetic testing: Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) - Dr. Gemma CarvillSend comments and feedbackWhat are variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in epilepsy genetic testing? How are they defined, and can those definitions change over time? Sharp Waves talks with Dr. Gemma Carvill as part of our genetic testing series.RESOURCESStandards for interpreting variants (American College of Medical Genetics)Gene ReviewsClinVarGeneMatcherGnomadClinGenILAE genetic literacy seriesEpiPred website for STXBP1 (developed by EpiMVP project - will be final by end of July)
2025-08-1834 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastWhat's new in status epilepticus: Dr. Eugen TrinkaSend comments and feedbackThis episode covers a wide scope of issues, including treatment options, treatment response, prognosis and the role of seizures versus the underlying etiology, most common etiologies for different age groups, new-onset refractory status (NORSE), and the prevalence and special considerations of non-convulsive status epilepticus. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a...
2025-08-0446 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastValproate and reproductive risks in women and men with epilepsy: Dr. Tony MarsonSend comments and feedbackIn use since the 1970s, valproate is highly effective for genetic generalized epilepsies and some forms of pediatric epilepsy. The medication also is associated with a 10% risk of birth defects in children exposed to it in utero, as well as a 30% to 40% risk of neurodevelopmental issues, including autism. Sharp Waves spoke with Dr. Tony Marson about the reproductive risks for women and men taking valproate, discussing UK policies meant to ensure appropriate prescription of valproate and communication about its risks. The recent policy regarding men who take valproate, and the evidence used to...
2025-07-2122 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastILAE Updated seizure classification: Dr. Sandor BeniczkySend comments and feedbackILAE's updated seizure classification position paper was published in Epilepsia in April 2025. Sharp Waves talked with Dr. Sandor Beniczky about the updates and how they will impact research and clinical care.The position paper is open access and available online. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where...
2025-07-0713 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDocumentary filmmaker confronts epilepsy in a new memoir: Stacia KalinoskiSend comments and feedbackSeizures cost Stacia Kalinoski her career in broadcast journalism and forced her to give up running. In her new memoir, Kalinoski recounts her journey from first seizure in college to epilepsy surgery years later, describing her seizures, struggles with medication, and challenges coming to terms with her epilepsy.Kalinoski's book, Racing Uphill, is available July 1, 2025 and can be ordered or pre-ordered online.Stacia Kalinoski is an Emmy Award–winning TV news journalist from the United States whose documentary Brainstorm was nominated for a regional Emmy Award. Before a seizure end...
2025-06-2315 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastWork-life balance: Dr. Sheryl HautSend comments and feedbackWork-related stress and burnout are common in physicians, with rates of burnout estimated between 25% and 60%. These stresses impact physician health, patient care, and health care systems as a whole. Sharp Waves spoke with Dr. Sheryl Haut about strategies to identify work stress and mitigate burnout. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward...
2025-06-0922 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastThe role of microglia in epilepsy: Hero, villain, or both? Dr. Amy BrewsterSend comments and feedbackMicroglia can have protective and also potentially harmful effects in the brain. They seem to be involved in dampening the nervous system during acute seizures – but also appear to play a role in neuronal loss and cortical thinning. Dr. Cecilie Nome spoke with Dr. Amy Brewster about the many faces of microglia and the current understanding of their role in epilepsy and seizures. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we...
2025-05-2719 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastLanguage models reveal concerns of people with epilepsy in online discussionsSend comments and feedbackMany of the most common concerns of people with epilepsy are topics they don't usually talk about with physicians. This is one of many findings of a study using AI to analyze more than 55,000 posts about epilepsy on Reddit. Sharp Waves spoke with the study's first author and two epilepsy advocates about the results and how they could help initiate important patient-provider conversations. PLEASE NOTE: This episode includes discussion of suicidal ideation. If you are in crisis, call your local emergency number or crisis hotline.The Reddit study is f...
2025-05-1231 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastMusic, epilepsy, and the brain: Dr. Phillip Pearl & Prof. Nigel OsborneSend comments and feedbackMusic can affect emotions, spark memories, and influence mood. In cases of musicogenic epilepsy, music can trigger seizures. In other cases, music may reduce seizure frequency. Dr. Cecilie Nome talks with Dr. Phillip Pearl and Prof. Nigel Osborne about the power of music and its effects on the brain.Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Links:Nigel Osborne - WikipediaPersonalised music as a treatment for epilepsy - Epilepsy & BehaviorNeuroscience and “real wo...
2025-04-2826 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastGenetic testing for epilepsy in low-resource regionsSend comments and feedbackIn lower- and middle-income countries, raising awareness of genetic etiologies in epilepsy and genetic testing options may ultimately shift national priorities toward making genetic testing part of the standard of care. Dr. Parthvi Ravat spoke with Dr. Jo Wilmshurst and Dr. Alina Esterhuizen about initiatives to increase awareness of genetics and genetic testing in epilepsy, including a decision tree model for epilepsy care in resource-restricted settings that has been implemented in Africa.Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Publication...
2025-04-1424 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEmergency diagnosis and treatment of status epilepticusSend comments and feedbackAs a neurological emergency, status epilepticus (SE) requires timely diagnosis and treatment. A US study found that 10% of people with SE were not diagnosed by emergency services. Among those who were diagnosed in an ambulance, 20% did not receive any first-line treatment, while others received lower-than-recommended doses. Sharp Waves spoke to senior author Dr. Elan Guterman about the study.Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Publications mentioned during the conversation:Status Epilepticus Identification and Treatment...
2025-03-3129 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastFolic acid supplementation in women with epilepsySend comments and feedbackFolic acid supplementation is recommended for all women with epilepsy who may become pregnant. However, there is no agreed-upon dose for women with epilepsy taking antiseizure medication, and there may be risks of high-dose (>1 mg/day) folic acid supplementation. Dr. Bruna Nucera spoke with Dr. Marte Helene Bjørk about the risks and benefits of folic acid supplementation and what this means for pregnant women with epilepsy. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: p...
2025-03-1721 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastHigh-frequency oscillations and epilepsy: Clinical and basic science perspectivesSend comments and feedbackHigh-frequency oscillations (80 to 500 Hz) are being studied as biomarkers of epileptogenic areas in the brain, as well as markers to be used in epilepsy surgery. Dr. Cecilie Nome leads a discussion about clinical research on HFOs and areas of uncertainty, as well as the importance of basic research in helping to understand this phenomenon.Publications mentioned during the episode: Roehri Eng N, et al. High-frequency oscillations are not better biomarkers of epileptogenic tissues than spikes. 2017. Annals of NeurologyJacobs J, et al. Removing high-frequency oscillations: A...
2025-03-0325 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastFinding epilepsy genes: Dr. Allan BayatSend comments and feedbackThere are potentially hundreds of "epilepsy genes" - but what is an epilepsy gene? How do researchers discover these genes and associate them with epilepsy? Sharp Waves spoke with Dr. Allan Bayat, a pediatric neurologist in Denmark focused on rare monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders and epilepsy. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward...
2025-02-1714 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastGenetic testing for epilepsy surgery: Dr. Pat MoloneySend comments and feedbackIn the second episode of our genetics and epilepsy series, Sharp Waves explores how genetic insights can inform considerations and outcomes of epilepsy surgery. Dr. Alina Ivaniuk interviews Dr. Patrick Moloney, currently an epilepsy genomics fellow at the Chalfont Center for Epilepsy at University College London.Selected publications:Do germline genetic variants influence surgical outcomes in drug-resistant epilepsy? Epilepsy Res 2024Genomics in the presurgical epilepsy evaluation. Epilepsy Res 2022 Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice....
2025-02-0323 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastGenetic testing in epilepsy: Who, how, and why? Dr. Ilona KreySend comments and feedbackThis first episode in a multipart series on genetics in epilepsy covers the basics of genetic testing. Dr. Alina Ivaniuk interviews Dr. Ilona Krey, a physician and researcher at the Institute of Human Genetics at Leipzig University Medical Center. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where no person's life...
2025-01-2016 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpilepsy surgery outcomes: Two experiences with life-changing consequencesSend comments and feedbackChristina Rezek and Brad Levy each have daughters who underwent epilepsy surgery, with dramatically different results. Sharp Waves talked with them about the journeys to and through epilepsy surgery, the consequences, and what they have learned.Brad Levy is a founder of Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disneyland, a free event held every November in Anaheim, California, USA. Visit epilepsyawarenessday.org for more information. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae...
2024-12-0927 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastHeart health and SUDEP in people with epilepsy: Dr. Katia Lin and Dr. Guilherme FialhoSend comments and feedbackSharp Waves spoke with a neurologist and a cardiologist who are part of a team researching the interactions among seizures, heart function, heart health, and SUDEP. Learn more about their research.Selected publications from Drs. Lin & Fialho and colleagues:Determining factors of electrocardiographic abnormalities in patients with epilepsy: A case-control study (2017, Epilepsy Research)Maximal/exhaustive treadmill test features in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy: Search for sudden unexpected death biomarkers (2017, Epilepsy Research)Echocardiographic risk markers of sudden death in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (2018...
2024-11-2524 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastExercise and epilepsy: Research and mythsSend comments and feedbackIn this episode, we explore the science behind exercise as an adjunct treatment for epilepsy and debunk some common myths (spoiler alert: With very rare exceptions, exercise does NOT increase seizure risk). Dr. Ayushe Sharma talked with Dr. Jane Allendorfer, Dr. Halley Alexander, and Brian Wiedmeyer, who participated in an exercise research study.The episode refers to a 2016 report by the ILAE Task Force on Sports and Epilepsy - that report is freely available online at this link.Some of the other research papers mentioned in the...
2024-11-1133 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastPractice guideline on outcomes after in utero exposure to anti-seizure medications: Dr. Alison PackSend comments and feedbackA recent practice guideline provides updated evidence-based conclusions and recommendations regarding in utero effects of anti-seizure medications and folic acid supplementation on the prevalence of major congenital malformations, adverse perinatal outcomes, and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Dr. Parthvi Ravat interviewed Dr. Alison Pack about the guideline, which was produced by the American Academy of Neurology, American Epilepsy Society, and Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.Review the practice guideline: Teratogenesis, perinatal, and neurodevelopmental outcomes after in utero exposure to antiseizure medication (Neurology, May 2024)Other studies mentioned in the episode: Risk of major...
2024-10-2823 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastChanging the term for "epilepsy" in Malaysia: Why and how? Dr. Chong Tin TanSend comments and feedbackSome historic names for epilepsy have been derogatory and stigmatizing. An older term for “epilepsy” in Malay means “mad pig disease.” Neurologists in Malaysia collaborated to change the word to a medically accurate term. Sharp Waves spoke with Dr. Chong Tin Tan about the origins of the older term and how the new term was introduced.Resources:Name of epilepsy: Does it matter? - 2012 - Neurology AsiaAnnouncement of a new Chinese name for epilepsy - Lau - 2011 - Epilepsia Changing name of epilepsy in Korea; cerebroel...
2024-10-1411 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastGlobal neurology: Pitfalls and purpose - Dr. Melody Asukile and Dr. Deanna SaylorSend comments and feedbackWith all the best intentions, undertakings in global neurology can include assumptions and biases that lead to unforeseen negative consequences. Sharp Waves spoke with Drs. Melody Asukile and Deanna Saylor about their recent article on the perils and pitfalls of global neurology. They discussed specific examples of some of these unforeseen consequences and talked about the ingredients for productive, ethical, and sustainable global neurology initiatives.Resources:Asukile M et al. The Perils and Pitfalls of Global Engagement (JAMA Neurology)Global Neurology: Advancing Neurological Care Worldwide (YouTube)
2024-09-3028 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpilepsy comorbidities present before diagnosis: Research recap with Remy Pugh and Dr. Chris TailbySend comments and feedbackSome people with epilepsy also experience memory and learning issues, as well as depression or anxiety. A small study in Australia screened people for these conditions at a first seizure clinic before any anti-seizure medications had been prescribed. Compared with a control group, the people at the first seizure clinic had higher rates of all of these cognitive and neuropsychological issues.The study is published in Epilepsia Open. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.
2024-09-1620 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastReflections on the life and career of Dr. Juhn Wada (1924-2023)Send comments and feedbackJuhn Atsushi Wada was a Japanese–Canadian neurologist known for research on epilepsy and human brain asymmetry, including his description of the Wada test to assess cerebral hemispheric dominance of language function. The Wada test is the gold standard for establishing cerebral dominance and is conducted worldwide prior to epilepsy surgery. He became a pioneer in the utilization of the kindling model of epilepsy, which permitted controlled studies of the development of epilepsy in the laboratory. Drs. Maryam Nouri and Laurent Sheybani interviewed Drs. Jerome Engel Jr., Marilyn Jones-Gotman, an...
2024-09-0237 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAstrocytes and epilepsy: Dr. Peter BednerSend comments and feedbackPreviously thought to be mere connective tissue and support for neurons, astrocytes are now understood to have many functions in the nervous system that are linked with seizures and epilepsy. Dr. Cecilie Nome spoke with Dr. Peter Bedner about astrocytes' involvement in epilepsy and how identifying and resolving astrocyte dysfunction is a new frontier in drug development.Relevant articles:de Ceglia R., et al. 2023. Specialized astrocytes mediate glutamatergic gliotransmission in the CNS. Nature 622, 120–129.Grote A., et al. 2023. ‘Hippocampal innate inflammatory gliosis only’ in pharmacoresistant temporal lobe epilepsy. Brain 146(2), 549-560.
2024-08-1923 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastFrom epilepsy patient to epilepsy surgeon: Dr. Ashok PillaiSend comments and feedbackDr. Ashok Pillai is a professor of neurosurgery and neuroscience associated with Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi, India. He underwent epilepsy surgery after a diagnosis of epilepsy in his mid-30s. Dr. Pillai received his undergraduate degree and medical training in the United States before returning to Kochi in 1999. He experienced ecstatic seizures for nearly a decade before he was diagnosed. His personal experience with epilepsy and epilepsy surgery led him to train as an epilepsy surgeon, whereas previously he had focused on surgical neuro-oncology. The Amrita Advanced Centre for E...
2024-08-0524 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastThe epileptic heart: Seizures and cardiac risk factors - Dr. Trudy Pang and Dr. Richard VerrierSend comments and feedbackRecent community-based studies suggest that people with chronic epilepsy have three times the risk of sudden cardiac death, compared with the general population. The studies also found that two-thirds of the cases of cardiac arrest in people with epilepsy did not occur directly before, during, or after a seizure. How do seizures affect the heart, both acutely and chronically? Dr. Trudy Pang and Dr. Richard Verrier have introduced the concept of the "epileptic heart" as "a heart and coronary vasculature damaged by chronic epilepsy as a result of repeated s...
2024-07-2229 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastThe bumpy road from pediatric to adult epilepsy care: Dr. Danielle AndradeSend comments and feedbackWhen a child with epilepsy ages out of pediatric healthcare, the shift to adult epilepsy care can be complex. Planning this transition and coordinating care can prevent gaps that can affect quality of life and possibly lead to health crises. A recent survey of people with epilepsy treated inside and outside of academic medical centers found that transition care was lacking. One-fourth of young adults with epilepsy were still followed by their pediatric neurologists and only 4% said they received clear instructions during the transfer of care process. Sharp Waves spoke with t...
2024-07-0820 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastInvestigating pediatric epilepsy in Nigeria: Dr. Edwin TrevathanSend comments and feedbackIn northern Nigeria, as in many other low- and middle-income countries, more people need epilepsy treatment than traditional medical care can support. Dr. Edwin Trevathan discusses projects in that region aimed at identifying children with undiagnosed epilepsy and improving access to care, as well as research to better understand the risks and prognosis of pediatric status epilepticus.Dr. Trevathan heads the BRIDGE project (Bridging the Childhood Epilepsy Treatment Gap in Africa) and the SEED project (Childhood Status Epilepticus and Epilepsy Determinants of Outcome). Both are funded through the US National Institutes...
2024-06-2424 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastConsensus recommendations for epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia (Jeavons syndrome): Dr. Kelsey SmithSend comments and feedbackA recent publication outlined areas of consensus on the recommended management, treatment options, and prognosis for epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia, also known as Jeavons syndrome. Dr. Alina Ivaniuk interviewed Dr. Kelsey Smith about the results and how consensus was reached.They discuss which medications are recommended as first-line treatment, possible non-pharmacologic treatment options, and what is known about the safety of driving in this population. The publication appears in Epilepsia:Smith KM, et al. Management of epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia: Results of an international expert consensus panel. E...
2024-06-1023 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDevelopmental and epileptic encephalopathies: Managing more than seizures - Dr. Scott DemarestSend comments and feedbackBesides seizures, people with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies experience a wide variety of symptoms, including sleep problems, vision problems, and behavioral issues. Dr. Scott Demarest discusses how neurologists may be able to address some of these, improving outcomes and quality of life. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where...
2024-05-2729 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastSeizure action plans as educational tools: Dr. Lucretia LongSend comments and feedbackSeizure action plans can help people with epilepsy manage their seizures and address emergencies. They often are aimed at a subset of people with epilepsy, particularly children. Dr. Lucretia Long discusses how seizure action plans can be used to engage and educate all people with epilepsy, as well as their families and the larger community.Seizure action plan examples: English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, Ukrainian, VietnameseOnline fillable seizure action plan - English (PDF) Plan de acción de incautación en línea - espanol (PDF...
2024-05-1321 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastThe Human Intracerebral EEG Platform and the power of big data: Dr. Philippe RyvlinSend comments and feedbackWhat is the Human Brain Project and how might it advance epilepsy research? Dr. Maryam Nouri speaks with Dr. Philippe Ryvlin about the project in terms of the Human Intracerebral EEG Platform and how compiling these unique data from around the world could lead to new breakthroughs and understanding of epilepsy.The Human Intracerebral EEG Platform is an open-source platform designed for collecting, managing, analyzing, and sharing iEEG data at an international level. Its primary mission is to promote the development of large-scale iEEG research projects by facilitating international collaborations in...
2024-04-2926 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastReproductive health counseling in adolescents with epilepsy: Dr. Elizabeth Harrison and Dr. Laura KirkpatrickSend comments and feedbackCounseling of teens and young adults with epilepsy about reproductive issues is not happening often enough. Conversations about pregnancy are almost non existent. Sharp Waves spoke with authors of a recent paper that details these findings and discusses possible solutions.Read the study: A retrospective textual analysis of sexual and reproductive health counseling for adolescent and young adult people with epilepsy of gestational capacity - Epilepsy & Behavior (epilepsybehavior.com)Related articles by the same authors:Sexual and reproductive healthcare for adolescent and young adult women with epilepsy...
2024-04-1521 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastChanging epilepsy care through entrepreneurship: Dr. Mark CookSend comments and feedbackPeople with epilepsy don't always know when they have had a seizure - and yet establishing seizure frequency is a key part of epilepsy management. When Dr. Mark Cook's father was diagnosed with epilepsy, Dr. Cook realized that a system to identify and predict seizures could improve care and change people's lives. Dr. Parthvi Ravat talks with him about entrepreneurship in epilepsy and ways to advance the field through innovation. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice....
2024-04-0123 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastMaximizing health-related quality of life after pediatric epilepsy surgery: Dr. Mary Lou SmithSend comments and feedbackIs surgery for pediatric epilepsy "worth it"? What factors determine quality of life in families with a child who has epilepsy? Dr. Kette Valente talks with Dr. Mary Lou Smith, whose work has implications for clinical treatment decisions, as well as expectations for the impact of treatments in children with epilepsy. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of...
2024-03-1824 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastClinical neurophysiology training: The present and the future - Dr. Sandor BeniczkySend comments and feedbackEEG training varies within countries as well as between them; in many countries, there is no training available. Dr. Bruna Nucera talks with Dr. Sandor Beniczky about the present and future of clinical neurophysiology training, including a recent review that calls for harmonizing this type of training across the globe. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health...
2024-03-0415 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastNeonatal seizures: Guidelines and consensus-based recommendations: Dr. Ronit PresslerSend comments and feedbackSeizures are common in neonates, but there is substantial management variability. The Neonatal Task Force of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) developed evidence-based recommendations about anti-seizure medication management in neonates in accordance with ILAE standards. Dr. Emma Carter speaks with first author Dr. Ronit Pressler about the guidelines and recommendations, and how they were established. Treatment of seizures in the neonate: Guidelines and consensus-based recommendations—Special report from the ILAE Task Force on Neonatal Seizures S...
2024-02-1924 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastBringing epilepsy out of the shadows: How far have we come? Dr. Edward (Ted) ReynoldsSend comments and feedbackIn the 1990s, there was more funding for leprosy research in the United Kingdom than for epilepsy research. It was around that time that Dr. Edward (Ted) Reynolds, then president of ILAE, recognized that as a global problem, epilepsy required global solutions. His idea blossomed into the Global Campaign Against Epilepsy and established a partnership among ILAE, the World Health Organization, and the International Bureau for Epilepsy that continues to this day through the Intersectoral Global Action Plan for Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders (IGAP).Dr. Reynolds is interviewed...
2024-02-0525 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcast"Talking about things that no one else will talk about": Torie Robinson, host of Epilepsy Sparks InsightsSend comments and feedbackFor her podcast, Epilepsy Sparks Insights, Torie Robinson interviews epilepsy clinicians and scientists from around the world. Diagnosed with epilepsy at age 10, Torie is working to share knowledge with people with epilepsy, their families, and the public. Her episode topics range widely, from the biochemistry of epilepsy, to the importance of epilepsy nurses, to epilepsy as an autoimmune condition, to sexual issues.Listen to Epilepsy Sparks Insights wherever you get your podcasts, including YouTube.Finding Torie:PodcastWebsiteYouTubeFacebookInstagram: @TorieRobinson10X...
2024-01-2223 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastNeurology researcher and parent advocate: Dr. Luis Oliviera and the v-ATPase AllianceSend comments and feedbackDr. Luis Oliviera is parent to a son with an ultra-rare developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. He's also a researcher with the Michael J. Fox Foundation. He created an organization bringing parents and researchers together to better understand his son's disorder, which is part of a group of disorders caused by rare mutations in v-ATPase genes. Dr. Oliviera was interviewed by Dr. Alina Ivaniuk.Visit the v-ATPase Alliance websiteContact the v-ATPase AllianceWhat is v-ATPase? Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes onl...
2024-01-0826 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastThe Idea of Epilepsy: Dr. Phillip Pearl and Dr. Simon ShorvonSend comments and feedbackThe Idea of Epilepsy, published in 2023, covers the history of epilepsy from multiple perspectives over the past 160 years. It ends with a tantalizing question: Does epilepsy actually exist? Dr. Phillip Pearl interviews author Dr. Simon Shorvon about why and how he wrote the book and what it has to offer clinicians, researchers, and non-scientists alike.More about The Idea of Epilepsy (from the publisher) Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@i...
2023-12-0335 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastFirst seizure from sleep - What is the risk of recurrence? Dr. Elaine PangSend comments and feedbackAre people who have their first seizure during sleep at greater or lesser risk for future seizures, compared with people who have their first seizure when they're awake? Dr. Laurent Sheybani interviews Dr. Elaine Pang, author of a 2023 paper in Epilepsia that analyzed data from 1,312 adults visiting a first-seizure clinic.This episode also discusses a 2015 evidence-based guideline on managing a first unprovoked seizure in adults. The guideline was developed by the American Academy of Neurology and the American Epilepsy Society. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational...
2023-11-2017 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and epilepsy: Dr. Raphael MechoulamSend comments and feedbackDr. Raphael Mechoulam was an organic chemist at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and the father of cannabis research. His team was the first to elucidate the structure of cannabidiol, or CBD. Dr. Mechoulam passed away in March 2023. This episode is a remastering of a conversation between Dr. Mechoulam and Dr. Meir Bialer, held in 2018 at the 13th European Congress on Epileptology. They spoke about CBD, THC, the endocannabinoid system, and the effects of cannabinoids in epilepsy and other conditions. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, a...
2023-11-0615 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAutism and epilepsy: Dr. Colin Reilly and Dr. Stéphane AuvinSend comments and feedbackNearly one-third of people with autism also have epilepsy. Researchers aren't sure why. For people on the spectrum, epilepsy can prompt unique challenges. Seizure symptoms can be misinterpreted as common autistic behaviors. Treatment may also be difficult due to the stress of a clinical setting, or the impact of anti-seizure medications on autism symptoms. Currently, some experts argue that there is a lack of research in assessing these care pathways. To learn more about diagnosis and treatment for people with autism and epilepsy, Joy Mazur spoke to Dr. Colin Rei...
2023-10-2328 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDravet syndrome and the influence of the genome: Dr. Sanjay SisodiyaSend comments and feedbackDravet syndrome is a rare, severe epilepsy caused by changes in a gene called SCN1A. The changes cause the gene to stop functioning normally. But not everyone with this type of genetic change develops Dravet syndrome, and people with Dravet also have a wide range of clinical characteristics, which can't be fully explained by these changes. What else is going on? We spoke with Dr. Sanjay Sisodiya about a recent publication on genomic influences in Dravet syndrome.This episode is based on a recent publication in the journal Brain:
2023-10-0926 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAttorney turned author pens an epilepsy-focused novel: Sara StaggsSend comments and feedbackSara Staggs was a civil rights attorney and pregnant with her second child when her doctors told her to stop practicing law: her seizures had become too frequent. Staggs' 2023 novel, Uncontrollable, fictionalizes her experiences with epilepsy and provides insight into how epilepsy affects families, careers, and relationships. Staggs talked with Dr. Alina Ivaniuk about her epilepsy history, her surgical evaluation experiences, and how she pivoted from attorney to author. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.L...
2023-09-2530 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCerebral amyloid angiopathy, seizures, and epilepsy: Dr. Brin FreundSend comments and feedbackWe'll frame today's talk around a paper recently published in the European Journal of Neurology: "The incidence and risk factors associated with seizures in cerebral amyloid angiopathy." With us today is the first author of the article, Dr. Brin Freund. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward a world where no person's lif...
2023-09-1121 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastResearch recap: Modified Atkins diet and health-related quality of life - Dr. Magnhild KvernelandSend comments and feedbackDiet treatments are often used with the aim of reducing seizure frequency and severity — but they may have other benefits as well. Findings from a recent study conducted in Norway suggest that dietary treatments may normalize emotional symptoms and that health-related quality of life (HRQOL) might be an indicator of successful diet treatment in the future. Joy Mazur spoke with Dr. Magnhild Kverneland about the study's results and its implications. Health-related quality of life in adults with drug-resistant focal epilepsy treated with modified Atkins diet in a randomized clinical tria...
2023-08-2819 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastStatins and epilepsy: Dr. Emilio Russo & Dr. Tony MarsonSend comments and feedbackSome published data suggest that besides their effect on cholesterol, statins also may play a neuroprotective role in some neurological disorders, including epilepsy. Dr. Bruna Nucera interviews Dr. Anthony Marson and Dr. Emilio Russo about whether and how to test statins as potential anti-epileptogenic drugs. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of health professionals and scientists, working toward...
2023-08-1421 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCaring for someone with functional seizures: Shannon Guinard's storySend comments and feedbackFunctional seizures, also known as psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES), resemble epileptic seizures. Unlike epilepsy, they are not prompted by any electrical activity in the brain. People with functional seizures live with stigma, stress, and emotional and financial burden — and so do their care partners.Joy Mazur spoke with Shannon Guinard, who cares for her husband, about the challenges and stigmas that face care partners of people with functional seizures. Resources and relevant articles: Information about psychogenic non epileptic seizuresDepression and anxiety in caregivers of pat...
2023-07-3114 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCircadian rhythms and epilepsy Part II: Dr. Maxime BaudSend comments and feedbackDo seizures have daily, weekly, monthly, or other rhythms? In Part 2 of our two-part series on circadian rhythms, Dr. Laurent Sheybani talks with Dr. Maxime Baud about the latest research on circadian and multidien rhythms in epilepsy. Selected publications: Seizure cycles in focal epilepsy - MG Leguia, et al. (2021) JAMA NeurologyEndogenous multidien rhythm of epilepsy in rats - MO Baud, et al. (2019) Experimental NeurologyLamellar bone is an incremental tissue reconciling enamel rhythms, body size, and organismal life history - TG Bromage, et al. (2009...
2023-07-1733 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCircadian rhythms and epilepsy Part I: Dr. Mark QuiggSend comments and feedback The cyclic properties of seizures have been known for more than 100 years, but does everyone with epilepsy have a seizure pattern? What can be learned from seizure diaries, RNS data, and animal models, and how can this information guide further research and clinical care? Dr. Laurent Sheybani talks with Dr. Mark Quigg about circadian rhythms in epilepsy.Selected publications:Electrocorticographic events from long-term ambulatory brain recordings can potentially supplement seizure diaries - Quigg M, et al. (2020) Epilepsy ResearchCircadian and ultradian patterns of epileptiform discharges differ by seizure-onset l...
2023-07-0331 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAn update on SUDEP and SUDEP counseling: Dr. Suvasini SharmaSend comments and feedbackSudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) affects about one out of every 1.000 people with epilepsy. Despite its rarity, SUDEP is important to discuss, but some physicians are wary of having the conversations. Dr. Emma Carter spoke with Dr. Suvasini Sharma about SUDEP, why it's important to inform patients and families about it, and how to manage risk factors.The greatest risk factor for SUDEP is uncontrolled generalized tonic-clonic seizures (previously called grand mal seizures). Nocturnal seizures and certain comorbidities, such as developmental delay, also are risk factors.SUDEP information f...
2023-06-1925 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastArtificial intelligence and epilepsy: Dr. Christian BosselmannSend comments and feedbackDiscussions of artificial intelligence and ChatGPT are everywhere. How will this technology affect epilepsy research and care? What are the dangers and pitfalls, and what do we need to know when designing research studies that use AI technology?Dr. Alina Ivaniuk interviewed Dr. Christian Bosselmann, an epilepsy precision medicine research fellow at the Cleveland Clinic, about the history of chatbots, the promise and pitfalls of artificial intelligence, and tips for critically evaluating studies that utilize AI.Mentioned in the discussion: Are AI language models such as ChatGPT ready...
2023-06-0535 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastNeurocysticercosis and epileptogenesis: Dr. Hector GarciaSend comments and feedbackNeurocysticercosis - an infection of the brain by a pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) – is one of the most common causes of seizures worldwide. People with neurocysticercosis have incidentally ingested tapeworm eggs, which are found in the feces of people who have tapeworms in their digestive systems (a condition called taeniasis). The eggs can migrate to any organ and form larval cysts; the brain is one of the most common sites.Pigs are intermediate hosts, so neurocysticercosis occurs in regions where humans live in close contact with pigs and eat undercooked pork. Po...
2023-05-2124 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastHow and why to address medication adherence: Dr. Avani Modi and Dr. Desiree WillifordSend comments and feedbackMost people with epilepsy have difficulty always taking their medications as prescribed. How can clinicians and patients talk about the issue and find solutions? Sharp Waves spoke with Dr. Avani Modi and Dr. Desiree Williford, authors of a recent study on pediatric adherence in epilepsy.During the episode, Dr. Modi mentions online resources that can help individuals and families find ways to take medication as directed. These are available in English and Spanish on the Epilepsy Foundation website. The STAR trial (Supporting Treatment Adherence Regimens) was a randomized controlled...
2023-05-0734 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAfrica's plans for improving epilepsy care: Action AmosSend comments and feedbackILAE spoke with Action Amos, from the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) about plans and strategies for improving epilepsy care across Africa. Leveraged by the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on epilepsy and other neurological disorders, four "trendsetter" countries are taking a variety of approaches to engage governments, increase public awareness, and ensure the participation of people with epilepsy in all of their initiatives.IBE aims to improve the lives of people with epilepsy and those who care for them. Resources:Making Epilepsy A Health Priority in Africa
2023-04-2321 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastManaging epilepsy in older adults: Dr. Loretta Piccenna & Dr. Rebecca O'DwyerSend comments and feedbackDr. Anca Arbune interviews two authors of a recent critical review on managing epilepsy in the elderly, developed by the ILAE Commission on Epilepsy in Older Adults. They discuss choosing an anti-seizure medication, monitoring cognitive changes, assessing quality of life, status epilepticus, the potential of epilepsy surgery, and the need for more research. Listeners interested in the newly formed consortium mentioned by Dr. O'Dwyer can contact her through the ILAE website. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.L...
2023-04-1020 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastPostpartum morbidity and rehospitalization in women with epilepsy: Research recapSend comments and feedbackDr. Bruna Nucera interviewed Dr. Andrea Cheng-Hakimian about a retrospective study that included 28 years of data from women with epilepsy who gave birth in Washington State.This US study compared the relative occurrence of selected pregnancy outcomes and postpartum rehospitalizations among women with and without epilepsy and their infants. It used linked hospital records of women with deliveries in Washington State between 1987 and 2014. Women with epilepsy had increased risks of preeclampsia (RR 1.23; 95 % CI 1.08-1.41) and gestational diabetes (RR 1.18; 95 % CI 1.02-1.36). Their infants had increased risks of malformation (RR 1.23; 95 % C: 1.08...
2023-03-2724 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastMoving epilepsy care closer to home: Dr. Gagandeep Singh & Dr. Meenakshi SharmaSend comments and feedbackCan we improve epilepsy outcomes by bringing care closer to home? A cluster randomized trial compared home care with community health workers to standard clinic care.ILAE spoke with Dr. Gagandeep Singh and Dr. Meenakshi Sharma, authors of the study publication, which was published in Epilepsia Open.Twenty-four clusters, each comprising 10 people with epilepsy, were randomized to either home-based or clinic care. Home-care recipients had better medication adherence and fewer seizures, compared with clinic-care recipients. Significantly more people from...
2023-03-1329 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpilepsy care in Ukraine: Dr. Olha TychkivskaSend comments and feedbackHow has the crisis in Ukraine affected people with epilepsy and their families, as well as the physicians who care for them? Dr. Alina Ivaniuk speaks with Dr. Olha Tychkivska about the volunteer efforts to provide anti-seizure medication to people in Ukraine, as well as Ukrainians who fled to other countries. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice.Let us know how we're doing: podcast@ilae.org.The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of...
2023-02-2735 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcast"Living with epilepsy should not be a secret": Jessie NyirendaSend comments and feedbackJessie Nyirenda's seizures began in her early teens. She was dismissed as attention-seeking and told she might be cursed. Years later, Jessie discovered information about her condition through library research and was formally diagnosed. She now works as a financial educator and is a mother of three children.Jessie was part of an advisory board to the International Bureau for Epilepsy, which helped develop an advocate's toolkit on counteracting epilepsy stigma in Africa. The toolkit is the first of several that will be developed in different regions of the world.
2023-02-1314 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAddressing epilepsy stigma from the ground up: Mary SeccoSend comments and feedbackStigmatizing people with epilepsy is a form of discrimination, and it can affect all aspects of someone's life: school, family life, work, friendships, relationships, and marriage.The International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE), ILAE's partner organization, consulted people with epilepsy and their families to produce a toolkit for addressing epilepsy stigma in Africa. The materials provide concrete, practical ways that advocates can work to reduce stigma in African countries.IBE plans to produce similar toolkits customized to other regions of the world. Sharp Waves episodes are...
2023-02-1318 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastSleep and epilepsy: Dr. Birgit FrauscherSend comments and feedbackBidirectional links between epilepsy and sleep have been known for thousands of years. Despite nearly a century of research using EEG investigations, the relationships are still not well understood.Dr. Laurent Sheybani interviewed Dr. Birgit Frauscher, an epileptologist and sleep specialist at the Montreal Neurological Institute. They discussed what is known about sleep patterns, how sleep may influence epileptic activity and vice versa, and how sleep research may lead to more effective epilepsy treatments.Studies mentioned in the interview include:Interictal Hippocampal Spiking Influences the Occurrence of Hippocampal...
2023-01-3028 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDr. Andres Kanner: A career journey bridging neurology and psychiatrySend comments and feedbackDr. Andres Kanner is one of the best known researchers in the behavioral aspects of epilepsy, and has authored more than 300 papers and book chapters. Dr. Kanner sat down with ILAE to talk about his original goal of becoming an artist, his path to epileptology, and how he has worked to become what patients call "an amazing, compassionate doctor".He is director of the University of Miami School of Medicine's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center of Excellence, chief of the Epilepsy Division, and professor of clinical neurology. Dr. Kanner is...
2023-01-0933 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastMulti-centre Epilepsy Lesion Detection (MELD) Project: Dr. Konrad WagstylSend comments and feedbackImproving lesion detection in people with drug-resistant epilepsy is crucial for optimal surgical outcomes. The MELD Project is an open-science consortium using deep learning principles to develop automated lesion detection of clinical MRI data. Dr. Maryam Nabavi Nouri spoke with Dr. Konrad Wagstyl about the project, publications, progress, and goals.Currently, the MELD project has three ongoing themes:Automated detection of lesions in patients with drug-resistant epilepsyUnderstanding the topographical distribution of focal cortical dysplasias (FCDs)Morphological characterisation of FCD lesionsTwitter: @meld_project
2022-12-1319 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCareer development profile: Dr. Caroline NeuraySend comments and feedbackDr. Alina Ivaniuk talks with Dr. Caroline Neuray about her career path from medical school to industry CEO. (It's not as direct as it sounds!) They discuss the power of peer mentoring, ways to improve medical education, finding the courage to accept change, and what's up with those comments from reviewer #2, anyway.Dr. Neuray is Chief Executive Officer of Epilog, which offers advanced EEG analysis to support clinical care, clinical trials, and research. She received her MD from the University of Munich and completed neurology training at Paracelsus Medical...
2022-11-2937 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastNORSE/FIRES: International recommendations for diagnosis and treatmentSend comments and feedbackFirst-line immunotherapy and the ketogenic diet are two main recommendations for treatment of NORSE/FIRES of unknown cause, according to results from an international consensus group published in Epilepsia.Dr. Maryam Nabavi Nouri interviews first author Dr. Ronny Wickstrom.For cases with unknown etiology, first-line immunotherapy should be considered within 72 hours of seizure onset, and second-line immunotherapy and the ketogenic diet should be considered within 7 days of seizure onset.The recommendations and clinical tools are available now:International consensus recommendations for management of new-onset refractory s...
2022-11-1422 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastNursing in epilepsy care: Roles, value, and the road aheadSend comments and feedbackNurses have been called the "glue" of epilepsy care, but their value and impact aren't always appreciated. The ILAE Nursing Section welcomes nurses from every country to help advocate for a better understanding of what nurses do, how their care improves outcomes in people with epilepsy, and how nurses can contribute to the goals of the Intersectoral Global Action Plan for Epilepsy and other Neurological Diseases (IGAP). Support from epilepsy clinicians and researchers is vital. Epigraph spoke with Nursing Section leaders Karen Legg, Patty Osborne Shafer, and Jane von...
2022-11-0133 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastResearch recap: Infant motor and mental development in women with epilepsy - Dr. Sanjeev ThomasSend comments and feedbackDoes in utero exposure to anti-seizure medication affect motor and mental development? A study using data from the Kerala Registry of Epilepsy in Pregnancy included more than 1,300 infants. Those exposed to valproate monotherapy, as well as any polytherapy, had higher risks of developmental delay.Dr. Bruna Nucera talked with Dr. Sanjeev Thomas about the findings and implications of the study.The study, Differential impact of antenatal exposure to antiseizure medications on motor and mental development in infants of women with epilepsy, was published in Epileptic Disorders in...
2022-10-1816 min
braincityDefinizione ILAE delle sindromi di epilessia generalizzata idiopatica: posizione della Task Force ILAE sulla nosologia e le definizioniIntervista a Carlo Di Bonaventura, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze/Salute Mentale, Centro per la cura dell’Epilessia, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza Unità di Roma, che ci presenta un position statement da parte della task force ILAE (Lega Internazionale contro l'Epilessia) in cui vengono illustrate le quattro sindromi che comprendono le IGE: epilessia con assenze dell’infanzia (CAE), epilessia con assenze del giovane (JAE), epilessia mioclonica giovanile (JME) ed epilessia con sole crisi generalizzate tonico-cloniche (GTCA). Vengono inoltre forniti i criteri diagnostici aggiornati per queste sindromi di epilessia.
2022-10-1307 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpilepsy and Alzheimer's disease: Dr. Andrew Cole & Dr. Alice LamSend comments and feedbackWhat are the associations between Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy? Dr. Patricia Saletti interviews Dr. Andrew Cole and Dr. Alice Lam.Recent studies have revealed intriguing connections between epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease, including a bidirectional increased risk and subclinical seizures in people with Alzheimer's. What do these relationships mean for people with these conditions, and what's the latest research?Sharp Waves content is meant for informational purposes only and not as medical or clinical advice. The International League Against Epilepsy is the world's preeminent association of h...
2022-10-0431 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCareer development profile: Dr. Meriem Bensalem-OwenSend comments and feedbackDr. Alina Ivaniuk interviews Dr. Meriem Bensalem-Owen about growing up in Algeria, attending medical school during a civil war, moving to the United States for training, and starting Kentucky's first epilepsy fellowship program. Dr. Bensalem-Owen directs the epilepsy program at the University of Kentucky and is a past board member of the National Association of Epilepsy Centers. She is passionate about Brazilian jiu jitsu and Argentine tango, and doesn't get enough sleep.Read more about Dr. Bensalem-Owen and find her on Twitter.This episode was reported by Dr...
2022-09-1927 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastAutoimmune-associated epilepsy: Dr. Claude SteriadeSend comments and feedbackWhat is autoimmune-associated epilepsy, and how is it different from acute seizures with an autoimmune cause? How can clinicians best diagnose and treat these conditions? Sharp Waves reporter Dr. Maryam Nabavi-Nouri spoke with Dr. Claude Steriade.Claude Steriade, MD, CM is originally from Quebec City, Canada. She completed medical school at McGill University in Montreal, followed by an adult neurology residency at the University of Toronto. Dr. Steriade then completed a two-year epilepsy fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic before joining the epilepsy center at New York University.
2022-09-0730 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastSocioeconomic status and epilepsy incidence: Maloney et al., EpilepsiaSend comments and feedbackWe talk with the authors of a recent study that found a higher incidence of epilepsy in more socially deprived areas of County Cork, Ireland. How was the dataset compiled, and what are the implications of their findings?Read the full study (open access) in Epilepsia: Association between social deprivation and incidence of first seizures and epilepsy: A prospective population-based cohort. Eimer M. Maloney, Paul Corcoran, Daniel J. Costello, and Eilis J. O'ReillyThe researchers interviewed for this episode, Eimer M. Maloney and Eilis J. O'Reilly, have no conflicts...
2022-08-2316 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastCareer development profile: Dr. Fabio NascimentoSend comments and feedbackDr. Alina Ivaniuk talks with Dr. Fábio Nascimento about his medical training and the factors contributing to his successful and varied career path.Dr. Nascimento became the director of Washington University’s Adult Tuberous Sclerosis Center Clinic in summer 2022, after completing an epilepsy and clinical neurophysiology fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. He is co-creator and co-host of EEG Talk, a YouTube channel dedicated to EEG education, and is also a podcast editor (Neurology Minute) and associate editor & social media editor for Epileptic Disorders.Find Dr. Nascimento on Twi...
2022-08-0840 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastNew epilepsy syndrome classifications: Dr. Elaine Wirrell & Dr. Kate RineySend comments and feedbackWhat does it take to define and classify 39 epilepsy syndromes? Dr. Elaine Wirrell chaired the ILAE task force that undertook this charge in 2017. Through in-person meetings, Zoom calls, emails, and gallons of coffee, the group of international experts shaped four classification papers, along with a fifth explaining the methodology and listing the syndromes. We also spoke with Dr. Kate Riney, who was part of the task force and instrumental in building epilepsydiagnosis.org, an online guide and a key resource for the team.
2022-07-2520 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastSex hormones and epilepsy: Dr. Andrew HerzogSend comments and feedbackAs many as two-thirds of women with epilepsy have seizures that fluctuate with their menstrual cycles. Called catamenial epilepsy, the phenomenon has three distinct patterns.In this episode of Sharp Waves, Dr. Bruna Nucera talks with Dr. Herzog about the three patterns of catamenial epilepsy, the possible mechanisms behind these seizure exacerbations, and how sex hormones otherwise affect both women and men with epilepsy. They discuss polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), female and male fertility issues in people with epilepsy, and what clinicians should know about interactions between anti-seizure medications...
2022-07-0533 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastLife as a medical student with epilepsy: A clinical and personal perspectiveSend comments and feedbackIn this episode, we talk with a third-year medical student, a neuroscience researcher, an avid rock climber, and a young man with epilepsy. The catch: They’re all the same person.Rick Nolan, 28, is a medical student from the US who also has done graduate coursework in neuroscience, publishing a study of his own brain in 2020. Nolan was diagnosed in his early 20s with epilepsy, which did not respond to medication. He took a year off from medical school to be surgically evaluated and receive a responsive neurostimulator (RNS) wi...
2022-06-1627 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpilepsy education for teachers: Creating epilepsy-smart schools in IndiaSend comments and feedbackSchools can be an important focus for screening of children for epilepsy, as well as educational efforts to address basic knowledge, stigma, and misconceptions associated with epilepsy. Schools also are an appropriate and necessary place to provide seizure first aid to affected students, teachers, and staff, as well as rescue medications when needed.There is strong stigma around epilepsy in India; parents may deny that a child has epilepsy, even if a community health worker has observed the child having seizures. And teachers and school administrators can be reluctant to allow c...
2022-06-1410 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpigenetics in epilepsy and the Michael Prize: Dr. Katja KobowSend comments and feedbackKatja Kobow is the most recent winner of the Michael Prize, an international award in epilepsy research. Her work focuses on epigenetics and epilepsy, a field that has grown exponentially in only the past 10 to 15 years. Dr. Kobow talked about her research and its potential for epilepsy diagnosis and treatment.Epigenetics is the bookmarking system or the data management system of our genome. It decides which part of the genome is read, and when to read it. The epigenome is what makes the genome versatile in terms of regulating...
2022-05-2619 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpilepsy, pregnancy and breastfeeding: Dr. Page PennellSend comments and feedbackCan women with epilepsy get pregnant, give birth to healthy babies, and breastfeed? What are the myths and misconceptions around epilepsy during pregnancy, and what do physicians and women need to know? Dr. Anca Arbune interviews Dr. Page Pennell about the latest research and knowledge.Women with epilepsy were once counseled to avoid pregnancy, but epilepsy is no longer a barrier to giving birth. The vast majority of women will have good outcomes.Fertility issues are not a given in women with epilepsy, though they may arise...
2022-05-0233 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcast"Why are there so many people?" - Seizures in the Canadian ArcticSend comments and feedbackCould annual dramatic shifts in day/night patterns in the Arctic have an effect on seizures? One researcher went looking for answers – and found more than he bargained for. His research revealed a public health crisis in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, highlighting the needs of geographically isolated communities and Indigenous peoples. (He also found intriguing results to his original question.) Dr. Marcus Ng reviewed 11 years of data on emergency evacuations from the Kivalliq region of northern Canada. There, anyone who has seizures that last...
2022-04-0721 min
braincityLa depressione nei soggetti con epilessia: le linee guida ILAEIntervista a Edoardo Ferlazzo, Università Magna Graecia di Catanzaro - Centro Regionale Epilessie di Reggio Calabria.I disturbi psichiatrici si manifestano nel 20-25% dei soggetti con epilessia e sono quindi tra le più importanti comorbidità di questa condizione. La depressione, a cui sono dedicate le nuove linee guida ILAE, è il disturbo più comune. Nella maggior parte dei casi, la depressione può essere gestita bene dal neurologo; è raccomandato l’invio a uno psichiatra di fronte a soggetti con disturbo bipolare, con importanti sintomi psicotici, con depressione resistente alla terapia farmacologica o alla psicoterapia, con ideazione o tentativi suicidari.L’IL...
2022-03-2204 min
Sharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDiscovering new drugs for epilepsy: Dr. Karen WilcoxSend comments and feedbackAnti-seizure medications are not a cure, and about 30% of people with epilepsy don't respond to them. How are new medications discovered, and what's on the horizon? Dr. Patricia Grandizoli Saletti interviews Dr. Karen Wilcox about her work with the Anticonvulsive Drug Development Program.Only about two-thirds of people with epilepsy have their seizures controlled by medication. The Anticonvulsive Drug Development (ADD) Program at the University of Utah is the contract site for the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program (ETSP), a program run by the US National Institutes of Health that i...
2022-03-1526 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastDeep brain stimulation for epilepsy: Dr. Robert FisherSend comments and feedbackCan electrical current stop seizures, or make seizures less severe? How does it work, and who can benefit? Dr. Laurent Sheybani interviews Dr. Robert Fisher about deep-brain stimulation for epilepsy.Disclosure: Dr. Fisher is a consultant for Medtronic but receives no compensation for using its deep-brain stimulation devices.Deep-brain stimulation (DBS) is the newest of three types of neuromodulation for epilepsy, and targets a part of the thalamus called the anterior nucleus. In DBS treatment, targeted electrical pulses inhibit a network in the brain invo...
2022-02-2141 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastThe ketogenic diet for super refractory status epilepticusSend comments and feedbackSomeone who has persistent seizures that last more than 24 hours, despite treatment, is in super refractory status epilepticus, or SRSE. The condition is rare, but often results in death or disability.Bringing someone out of SRSE usually involves treatment with anti-seizure medications and anesthetics, but other therapies are beginning to gain attention. One of those therapies is the ketogenic diet. This high-fat diet has been used to treat some cases of epilepsy for more than 100 years.A recent paper in Neurology Clinical Practice offers practical considerations for the use o...
2022-01-2812 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcast"You are not your epilepsy": A conversation with Bright BwalyaSend comments and feedbackHow can you describe your first seizures to a doctor if you don't remember them happening? What if your university professors don't believe you have epilepsy? How do you handle misinformation from family and friends about what epilepsy is?Bright M. Bwalya has had to answer each of these questions, and more. Diagnosed with epilepsy in 2016, Bright coupled his experiences with curiosity and compassion to become one of Zambia's foremost epilepsy advocates. In 2021, he won an IBE Golden Light Award for his efforts. Sharp Waves talked with Bright, as...
2022-01-1218 minSharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcastEpilepsy care in Zambia: "Now that we have neurologists, we will have a voice"Send comments and feedbackBefore 2018, epilepsy in Zambia was treated as a mental illness by the health care system, though many people viewed it as a manifestation of demonic possession or witchcraft. Epilepsy education for the public was non-existent, and specialty care unheard of. Now Zambia's first neurology training program, launched in 2018, is shifting an entire country's perception of what epilepsy is, and how to treat it. This episode includes interviews with Deanna Saylor, program director of the post-graduate training program in neurology at the University of Zambia, and Melody Asukile, an adult neurologist with an i...
2021-11-1728 min