2020 Volume 38 Issue 2 Pages 139-146
This study is a retrospective investigation of the effects of vigabatrin (VGB) on patients with simultaneous manifestation of epileptic spasms (spasms) and focal seizures. We enrolled 11 patients excluding tuberous sclerosis complex and evaluated the effect of VGB on seizures. The follow-up period was - 1-6.8 years, while the duration of VGB administration was 2 weeks to 1.3 years. Upon the administration of VGB, there was no cessation of spasms in the patients. However, a reduction in focal seizure frequency of more than 50% was observed in 9 patients, with 5 patients becoming seizure-free. VGB was discontinued in 10 patients, including 8 patients who showed more than 50% reduction of focal seizures. Focal seizures in these 8 patients were observed to relapse and/or increase. At final assessment, both seizure types disappeared in only 1 patient and remained uncontrolled in 7 patents. Spasms disappeared in 2 patients, and focal seizures disappeared in 1 patient. VGB demonstrated no efficacy against spasms but showed considerable effect against focal seizures in patients who suffered from both the seizure types simultaneously. Focal seizures relapsed and increased after VGB withdrawal, and the seizures and developmental outcomes were poor. We need to consider treatment strategy, continuity, and re-administration of VGB.
