CLINICAL AND DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF PERSON WITH EPILEPSY IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF BUNDELKHAND REGION, CENTRAL INDIA

BACKROUND Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in the world. It is seen that relative frequency of various clinically important characteristics are different in persons with epilepsy (PWE) living in different geographical area. The purpose of this study is to determine the clinical and demographic profile of epilepsy in Bundelkhand region of central India. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a descriptive study. All persons with epilepsy attending epilepsy clinic of neurology department were enrolled in this study. Detailed clinical history and general physical examination were carried out. CT scan head, EEG and other relevant investigations were done to determine cause and type of epilepsy. Antiepileptic drug therapy and compliance to treatment was also recorded. RESULTS One hundred and seventy six patients were included in this study. Mean age of onset were 17.4 +/- 10.4 years. Two-third of persons were from poor socioeconomic strata and from rural background. Age of onset of epilepsy was less than 15 years in 44% patients. Ten percent of patients gave family history of epilepsy among first degree relatives. Most common seizure type was generalised tonic-clonic seizures (68%). Sleep deprivation was the most common precipitating factor. Cause of seizure was idiopathic in 64% patients. Neurocysticercosis was found in 14% of patients and was the most common cause of secondary epilepsy. Eighty five percent were treated with single antiepileptic drug. Noncompliance for drug therapy was seen in 28% patients, which underscore the need for continuous and effective public awareness programme towards this condition. CONCLUSION Understanding of clinical and demographic profile of patients with epilepsy is needed to develop appropriate strategies for better and effective health planning.