Open AccessOnchocerciasis‐associated epilepsy: From recent epidemiological and clinical findings to policy implications
Author(s) -
Colebunders Robert,
Njamnshi Alfred K.,
Oijen Marieke,
Mukendi Deby,
Kashama Jean Marie,
Mandro Michel,
Gumisiriza Nolbert,
Preux PierreMarie,
Suykerbuyk Patrick,
Idro Richard
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
epilepsia open
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.247
H-Index - 16
ISSN - 2470-9239
DOI - 10.1002/epi4.12054
Subject(s) - onchocerciasis , epilepsy , epidemiology , ivermectin , medicine , public health , disease , pediatrics , environmental health , intensive care medicine , psychiatry , pathology , veterinary medicine
Summary A high prevalence of epilepsy is reported in many onchocerciasis‐endemic regions. In this paper we discuss recent epidemiological and clinical aspects as well as public health implications of onchocerciasis‐associated epilepsy ( OAE ) and propose a strategy to reduce the burden of disease. OAE probably presents in a variety of clinical manifestations, including the nodding syndrome and the Nakalanga syndrome. The most common clinical presentation, however, is generalized (primarily tonic‐clonic) seizures. A characteristic of OAE is the onset of seizures between the ages of 3 and 18 years and clustering in certain families and villages close to rapid‐flowing black‐fly‐infested rivers. A strategy combining active surveillance for epilepsy with early treatment with antiepileptic drugs and prevention of onchocerciasis by increasing the geographical and therapeutic coverage of community‐directed treatment with ivermectin ( CDT i) may considerably decrease the burden of disease.