case of fetal valproate syndrome with new features expanding the phenotype

Fetal valproate syndrome [FVS] is a well-recognized constellation of dysmorphic features, and neurodevelopmental retardation that results from prenatal exposure to the anticonvulsant valproic acid. In this report, we describe a case with typical features of FVS. A 23-year-old lady with post-traumatic epilepsy controlled by sodium valproate [Depakene] 500 mg twice daily throughout pregnancy as monotherapy, gave birth to a female baby with facial features characteristic of FVS, and severe radial ray reduction. She also had wide-spaced nipples and short neck, features not described before. Sodium valproate, a widely used anticonvulsant and mood regulator, is a well-recognized teratogen that can result in severe limb deformities, craniosynostosis, neural tube defects and neurodevelopmental retardation. Therefore, we recommend that valproic acid must be avoided during pregnancy, as new generation of anticonvulsant drugs have emerged into the market

Post traumatic epilepsy: a review of scientific evidence.

Post traumatic epilepsy is the development of recurrent seizures following head trauma and has a high clinical relevance. Several risk factors including some genetic factors increase the susceptibility of post traumatic epilepsy. The precise mechanisms of epileptogenesis in post-traumatic epilepsy are still poorly understood. Many structural, physiologic and biochemical changes in the brain may account for epileptogenesis. The reactive oxygen species (ROS), especially *OH and excitotoxicity are primarily involved. Antioxidants, like tocopherol, antiepileptic drug zonisamide, condensed tannins, melatonin, adenosine, trans-resveratrol, and some other agents have been proposed to prevent epileptogenic focus formation. The review also discusses various aspects of post traumatic epilepsy, mechanisms of epileptogenesis, and clinical implications.