Explore every episode of the podcast Sharp Waves: ILAE's epilepsy podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| First seizure from sleep - What is the risk of recurrence? Dr. Elaine Pang -encore episode (2023) | 21 juil. 2026 | 00:18:10 | |
Are 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Tumor associated epilepsy: Dr. Katie Peters | 23 juin 2026 | 00:29:02 | |
In this episode of Sharp Waves, host Nancy welcomes renowned neurologist and neuro-oncologist Dr. Katie Peters from the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center to discuss the important connection between brain tumors and epilepsy. Dr. Peters shares her expertise on how brain tumors can contribute to seizure disorders, the challenges patients face, and the latest approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and care. Whether you're a healthcare professional, patient, caregiver, or simply interested in neuroscience, this insightful conversation offers valuable perspectives on navigating these complex neurological conditions. Tune in for an engaging discussion with one of the field's leading experts. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Epilepsy and functional/dissociative seizures: Dr. Wesley Kerr and Dr. Shruti Iyer | 01 juin 2026 | 00:27:01 | |
In this Sharp Waves podcast episode “Epilepsy and Functional/Dissociative Seizures,” Wesley Kerr, MD, PhD, a statistician and epileptologist at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, joins Shruti Iyer, MD, a third year neurology resident at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, to discuss their recently published study on categorizing the probability of epilepsy in patients already diagnosed with functional dissociative seizures (FDS). The conversation highlights how this proposed framework may help clinicians better identify patients who could have coexisting epilepsy and improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. The episode also notes that functional dissociative seizures were previously, and in some settings are still, referred to as psychogenic non epileptic seizures (PNES). You can access the research article here. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Autism and epilepsy: Dr. Colin Reilly and Dr. Stéphane Auvin -encore episode (2023) | 22 mai 2026 | 00:29:42 | |
Nearly one-third of people with autism also have epilepsy. Researchers aren't sure why. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Autoimmune-associated epilepsy: Dr. Claude Steriade - encore episode (2022) | 23 avr. 2026 | 00:31:14 | |
What 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. Discerning the Role of Autoimmunity and Autoantibodies in Epilepsy: A Review -- Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Sleep and epilepsy: Dr. Birgit Frauscher - encore episode (2023) | 31 mars 2026 | 00:29:15 | |
Bidirectional 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Seizure action plans as educational tools: Dr. Lucretia Long - encore episode (2024) | 10 mars 2026 | 00:21:51 | |
Seizure 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| ILAE Updated seizure classification Part 2: Prof. Eugen Trinka | 16 févr. 2026 | 00:23:21 | |
We discuss the response to the updated classification of seizures with Prof. Eugen Trinka, including why the changes were made and how the changes are being explained and socialized. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| "Living with epilepsy should not be a secret": Jessie Nyirenda - encore episode (2022) | 09 févr. 2026 | 00:13:46 | |
Celebrating International Epilepsy Day (Feb 9) with an episode of strength and hope! Jessie Nyirenda's seizures went undiagnosed for years. She was told she was misbehaving, possessed, and bewitched. She finally diagnosed herself after reading about epilepsy in a library. Taking anti-seizure medication and joining an epilepsy support group changed Jessie's life and made her realize she was no different from anyone else. Now a mother of three and a banking sector specialist, Jessie is active in epilepsy advocacy. IBE toolkit for reducing stigma in Africa Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| EpiCARE: The European Reference Network for Rare and Complex Epilepsies | 02 févr. 2026 | 00:30:51 | |
A network of more than 60 expert epilepsy teams across Europe: That's EpiCARE. The network aims to improve care for rare and complex epilepsies and reduce inequalities in access to the best diagnostic and treatment practices and investigational tools. Sharp Waves talked to EpiCARE coordinator Dr. Alexis Arzimanoglou about what EpiCARE is, what it isn't, and how it may contribute to changes in epilepsy care across the region and beyond. For more information: EpiCARE on Instagram (@ern_epicare) Patient and caregiver resources EpiCARE position paper: Areas of research priorities in epilepsy (Epilepsia Open, Jan 2026) The Declaration on the European Innovation and Care Ecosystem for Rare and Complex Diseases (Dec 2025) Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Intellectual disability and epilepsy: A patient-centered perspective | 19 janv. 2026 | 00:23:36 | |
About 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 advice. | |||
| Acute symptomatic seizures: Dr. Marian Galovic | 05 janv. 2026 | 00:27:33 | |
While 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 model of developing epilepsy after ischemic stroke The CAVE model of developing epilepsy after hemorrhagic stroke The 2HELPS2B score to identify patients most likely to benefit from prolonged EEG Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Dravet Syndrome: Dr. Ingrid Scheffer | 08 déc. 2025 | 00:27:29 | |
The 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. | |||
| Drug-resistant epilepsy: Dr. Patrick Kwan | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:32:36 | |
About 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: The costs of epilepsy in Australia | Neurology Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Normalizing depression in epilepsy: Screening, diagnosis, treatment - Dr. Rosa Michaelis | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:22:27 | |
Nearly 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 as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| A novel patient-reported outcome measure for epilepsy: The impacts of seizures and treatment | 27 oct. 2025 | 00:18:48 | |
Is 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 Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Social work in epilepsy: Closing the treatment gap and improving quality of life - Dr. Rugare Mugumbate | 13 oct. 2025 | 00:30:50 | |
Closing 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. Aimed at a wide variety of health practitioners and stuents, The book is available in multiple formats. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Somatic genetic epilepsies: Dr. Christian Bosselmann | 29 sept. 2025 | 00:31:31 | |
Somatic 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 and EGFR (Nature Communications 2024 - C. Bosselmann et al.) Neocortical development and epilepsy: Insights from focal cortical dysplasia and brain tumours (The Lancet Neurology 2021 - I. Blumcke et al.) Contribution of somatic Ras/Raf/Mitogen-activated protein kinase variants in the hippocampus in drug-resistant mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (JAMA Neurology 2023 - S. Khoshkhoo et al.) Somatic mosaicism and neurodevelopmental disease (Nature Neuroscience 2018 - AM D'Gama and CA Walsh) BRAF somatic mutation contributes to intrinsic epileptogenicity in pediatric brain tumors (Nature Medicine 2018 - HY Koh et al.) SLC35A2 loss-of-function variants affect glycomic signatures, neuronal fate and network dynamics (Brain 2025 - D Lai et al.) Precise detection of low-level somatic mutation in resected epilepsy brain tissue (Acta Neuropathologica 2019 - NS Sim et al.) Toward a better definition of focal cortical dysplasia: An iterative histopathological and genetic agreement trial (Epilepsia 2021 - I Blumcke et al.) Seizure outcome and use of antiepileptic drugs after epilepsy surgery according to histopathological diagnosis: A retrospective multicentre cohort study (The Lancet Neurology 2020 - HJ Lamberink et al.) Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Research recap: Empiric immunotherapy for highly refractory epilepsy: Dr. Elisabeth Doran | 08 sept. 2025 | 00:12:54 | |
In 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 medical advice. | |||
| Genetic testing: Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) - Dr. Gemma Carvill | 18 août 2025 | 00:34:22 | |
What 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. RESOURCES Standards for interpreting variants (American College of Medical Genetics) EpiPred website for STXBP1 (developed by EpiMVP project - will be final by end of July) Think Genetics paper – genetic testing in South Africa project Link to Sharp Waves episode on genetic testing in LMICs
Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| What's new in status epilepticus: Dr. Eugen Trinka | 04 août 2025 | 00:46:04 | |
This 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. | |||
| Valproate and reproductive risks in women and men with epilepsy: Dr. Tony Marson | 21 juil. 2025 | 00:22:28 | |
In 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 support that policy, is discussed near the end of the episode. Since the episode was recorded, the UK has changed its policy regarding men taking valproate; see this link for more information: February 2025 update on valproate policy in the UK UK Drug Safety Update page - June 2025 February 2025 update on valproate policy in the UK Regulatory safety and educational materials on valproate - for health care professionals and patients Public assessment report: Managing reproductive risks in males under 55 taking valproate Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| ILAE Updated seizure classification: Dr. Sandor Beniczky | 07 juil. 2025 | 00:13:01 | |
ILAE'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. | |||
| Documentary filmmaker confronts epilepsy in a new memoir: Stacia Kalinoski | 23 juin 2025 | 00:15:03 | |
Seizures 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 ended her broadcast journalism career, she reported for television stations in Nebraska, Oregon, and Michigan. She now shares her story as a motivational speaker. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Work-life balance: Dr. Sheryl Haut | 09 juin 2025 | 00:22:21 | |
Work-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. | |||
| The role of microglia in epilepsy: Hero, villain, or both? Dr. Amy Brewster | 27 mai 2025 | 00:19:03 | |
Microglia 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. | |||
| Language models reveal concerns of people with epilepsy in online discussions | 12 mai 2025 | 00:31:59 | |
Many 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 freely available online; no journal subscription is required: Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Music, epilepsy, and the brain: Dr. Phillip Pearl & Prof. Nigel Osborne | 28 avr. 2025 | 00:26:36 | |
Music 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: Personalised music as a treatment for epilepsy - Epilepsy & Behavior Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Genetic testing for epilepsy in low-resource regions | 14 avr. 2025 | 00:24:59 | |
In 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 mentioned in the episode: Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Emergency diagnosis and treatment of status epilepticus | 31 mars 2025 | 00:29:15 | |
As 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: Emergency response to out-of-hospital status epilepticus | Neurology Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Folic acid supplementation in women with epilepsy | 17 mars 2025 | 00:21:50 | |
Folic 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. | |||
| High-frequency oscillations and epilepsy: Clinical and basic science perspectives | 03 mars 2025 | 00:25:24 | |
High-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 Neurology Jacobs J, et al. Removing high-frequency oscillations: A prospective multicenter study on seizure outcome. 2018. Neurology Zweiphenning W, et al. Intraoperative electrocorticography using high-frequency oscillations or spikes to tailor epilepsy surgery in the Netherlands (the HFO trial): a randomised, single-blind, adaptive non-inferiority trial. 2022. Lancet Neurology Lisgaras CP et al. High-frequency oscillations (250–500 Hz) in animal models of Alzheimer's disease and two animal models of epilepsy. 2022. Epilepsia Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Finding epilepsy genes: Dr. Allan Bayat | 17 févr. 2025 | 00:14:58 | |
There 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. | |||
| Genetic testing for epilepsy surgery: Dr. Pat Moloney | 03 févr. 2025 | 00:23:38 | |
In 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Genetic testing in epilepsy: Who, how, and why? Dr. Ilona Krey | 20 janv. 2025 | 00:16:39 | |
This 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. | |||
| Epilepsy surgery outcomes: Two experiences with life-changing consequences | 09 déc. 2024 | 00:27:48 | |
Christina 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Heart health and SUDEP in people with epilepsy: Dr. Katia Lin and Dr. Guilherme Fialho | 25 nov. 2024 | 00:24:04 | |
Sharp 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Exercise and epilepsy: Research and myths | 11 nov. 2024 | 00:33:56 | |
In 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Practice guideline on outcomes after in utero exposure to anti-seizure medications: Dr. Alison Pack | 28 oct. 2024 | 00:23:41 | |
A 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Changing the term for "epilepsy" in Malaysia: Why and how? Dr. Chong Tin Tan | 14 oct. 2024 | 00:11:48 | |
Some 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: Announcement of a new Chinese name for epilepsy - Lau - 2011 - Epilepsia Renaming Korean epilepsy: Where are we? - Epilepsy & Behavior Overcoming the stigma of epilepsy in Asia // International League Against Epilepsy Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Global neurology: Pitfalls and purpose - Dr. Melody Asukile and Dr. Deanna Saylor | 30 sept. 2024 | 00:28:08 | |
With 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. DiBiase R et al. Evaluation of Three Cohorts of the First Neurology Postgraduate Training Program in Zambia (P4-8.001) (Neurology) Zambia League Against Epilepsy Intersectoral global action plan on epilepsy and other neurological disorders (World Health Organization) Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Epilepsy comorbidities present before diagnosis: Research recap with Remy Pugh and Dr. Chris Tailby | 16 sept. 2024 | 00:20:22 | |
Some 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Reflections on the life and career of Dr. Juhn Wada (1924-2023) | 02 sept. 2024 | 00:37:28 | |
Juhn 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. More information on Dr. Wada: Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Astrocytes and epilepsy: Dr. Peter Bedner | 19 août 2024 | 00:23:46 | |
Previously 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| From epilepsy patient to epilepsy surgeon: Dr. Ashok Pillai | 05 août 2024 | 00:24:42 | |
Dr. 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| The epileptic heart: Seizures and cardiac risk factors - Dr. Trudy Pang and Dr. Richard Verrier | 22 juil. 2024 | 00:29:54 | |
Recent 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| The bumpy road from pediatric to adult epilepsy care: Dr. Danielle Andrade | 08 juil. 2024 | 00:20:37 | |
When 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Investigating pediatric epilepsy in Nigeria: Dr. Edwin Trevathan | 24 juin 2024 | 00:24:33 | |
In 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Consensus recommendations for epilepsy with eyelid myoclonia (Jeavons syndrome): Dr. Kelsey Smith | 10 juin 2024 | 00:23:03 | |
A 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. Sharp Waves episodes are meant for informational purposes only, and not as clinical or medical advice. | |||
| Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies: Managing more than seizures - Dr. Scott Demarest | 27 mai 2024 | 00:29:15 | |
Besides 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. | |||