8-10.10.2009. Охрид, Македония - Конференция по детска неврология
ЕARLY INTERVENTION AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO WEST SYNDROME- CASE STUDY
PARASHKEVA VICHEVA1, Sevdzhihan Eyubova2
1Pediatric Unit, MBAL-Shumen AD
63-Vassil Aprilov Street, Shumen, Bulgaria
e-mail: dr_vicheva@abv.bg
2Department of Psychology, Constantin Preslavski University of Shumen
Pediatric Unit, MBAL-Shumen AD
63-Vassil Aprilov Street, Shumen, Bulgaria
e-mail: s.eubova@gmail.com
West syndrome is composed of the triad of infantile spasms, specific EEG pattern termed hypsarrhythmia, and mental retardation, although the diagnosis can be made even if one of the 3 elements is missing (according to the international classification). This severe epilepsy syndrome is an age-dependent expression of a damaged brain and is one of the most devastating forms of childhood epilepsy. The primary goal of treatment for infants with West syndrome and their families is to ensure the highest quality of life with no seizures. Early intervention and multidisciplinary approach to children with West syndrome is the most important in achieving best results. We present our experience of alternative and complementary forms of treatment. Working in close cooperation with different specialists from the very beginning – from assessment to follow-up and monitoring activities - taking up clear roles and responsibilities, but also sharing the same professional language and principles of work will enhance the care of children with infantile spasms.
Key words: West syndrome, multidisciplinary approach, quality of life
