Etiopathogenesis of Drug-Refractory Epilepsy in Children (2 Months To 18 Years): A Tertiary Care Study

Dr. Manisha Swain, Dr. Sonal P. Shah, Dr. Bhadresh Vyas, Dr. Arnab Bandyopadhyay

Abstract: Background: Drug-refractory epilepsy (DRE) affects nearly 30% of pediatric epilepsy cases, leading to significant morbidity. Aim: To evaluate etiopathogenesis, clinical risk factors, and treatment response in children with DRE aged 2 months to 18 years. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study conducted over 6 months at a tertiary care hospital. Fifty patients meeting ILAE criteria for DRE were analyzed. Data included demographic profile, seizure onset, risk factors, imaging, EEG, and comorbidities. Results: Mean age was 9.8 years; 68% were male. Structural etiologies (60%) predominated, followed by genetic (18%), infectious (6%), metabolic (4%), immune-mediated (2%), and unknown (10%). Birth asphyxia (50%) was the leading perinatal risk factor. 80% had NICU stay history. Major comorbidities were global developmental delay/intellectual disability (56%) and cerebral palsy (23%). Conclusion: Preventable perinatal insults (asphyxia, prematurity, NICU complications) remain the strongest predictors of pediatric DRE in India. Early neuroimaging, genetic counseling, and tailored polytherapy are essential.

Keywords: pediatric epilepsy, drug-refractory epilepsy, perinatal risk factors, structural etiology, developmental delay

How to Cite?: Dr. Manisha Swain, Dr. Sonal P. Shah, Dr. Bhadresh Vyas, Dr. Arnab Bandyopadhyay, "Etiopathogenesis of Drug-Refractory Epilepsy in Children (2 Months To 18 Years): A Tertiary Care Study", Volume 14 Issue 9, September 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 236-237, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR25908231437, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR25908231437