ERIC Number: EJ904414
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2004-May
Pages: 5
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1080-4013
EISSN: N/A
Effects of Early Seizures on Later Behavior and Epileptogenicity
Holmes, Gregory L.
Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Research Reviews, v10 n2 p101-105 May 2004
Both clinical and laboratory studies demonstrate that seizures early in life can result in permanent behavioral abnormalities and enhance epileptogenicity. Understanding the critical periods of vulnerability of the developing nervous system to seizure-induced changes may provide insights into parallel or divergent processes in the development of autism. In experimental rodent models, the consequences of seizures are dependent on age, etiology, seizure duration, and frequency. Recurring seizures in immature rats result in long-term adverse effects on learning and memory. These behavioral changes are paralleled by changes in brain connectivity, changes in excitatory neurotransmitter receptor distribution, and decreased neurogenesis. These changes occur in the absence of cell loss. Although impaired cognitive function and brain changes have been well-documented following early-onset seizures, the mechanisms of seizure-induced dysfunction remain unclear. (Contains 2 figures.)
Descriptors: Seizures, Etiology, Anatomy, Brain, Child Development, Child Behavior, Epilepsy, Young Children, Animals, Behavior Change, Neurological Impairments, Neurology, Cognitive Ability, Memory, Spatial Ability
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A