Injuries in Children With Epilepsy: A Hospital-based Study.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To study the magnitude and pattern of injuries in children with epilepsy. Methods: This prospective cohort study enrolled children with epilepsy (CWE) aged 2-16 years on treatment with anti-epileptics for a minimum duration of one-month and compared them with their own siblings (controls). A semi-structured questionnaire was used to enquire about epilepsy and type and frequency of injuries sustained at monthly follow-up visits. Participants were followed up for 12-months for occurrence of injuries. Results: 208 cases and 212 controls were analyzed. 21 cases (10.1%) and 10 controls (4.7%) had sustained injuries (P=0.03) (RR 2.1; 95% CI, 1.0 - 4.4). Seizure-related injuries were present in 4.3% of cases. Conclusion: Children with epilepsy are at an increased risk of injuries and hence need supervision.