Post-Traumatic Epilepsy Linked to Increased Mortality Risk

Individuals who experience epilepsy following a traumatic brain injury face an 80% greater risk of premature death compared to those who have sustained similar injuries but do not develop epilepsy, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Gothenburg.

The comprehensive research analyzed data from over 110,000 patients hospitalized in Sweden due to traumatic brain injuries between 2000 and 2010. Out of this group, 4,292 were diagnosed with epilepsy after their injuries, and they were monitored until 2017.

The findings indicate that the likelihood of developing epilepsy is most pronounced within the first year after sustaining a brain injury, with the risk escalating in correlation with the injury's severity. The study revealed that the mortality risk during the follow-up period was 1.8 times higher for individuals who developed epilepsy compared to those who did not, even when controlling for the severity of the initial injury.

The research, conducted by a doctoral student affiliated with the university and a practicing neurologist, highlights a significant disparity in survival rates between those who develop post-traumatic epilepsy and those who do not. This raises concerns that the presence of epilepsy itself may be a contributing factor to increased mortality.

Approximately 4% of individuals who suffer a traumatic brain injury will develop epilepsy within a decade, with most cases emerging in the first year post-injury. Although this percentage may seem low, the implications of this condition on both quality of life and survival are substantial.

The researchers emphasize the necessity for neurology departments to closely monitor patients who experience seizures following a traumatic brain injury. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving outcomes for these individuals.

Additionally, the thesis included insights from a regional epilepsy study, indicating that individuals who develop epilepsy post-injury tend to have lower educational attainment and higher rates of unemployment compared to their counterparts with epilepsy that is not linked to traumatic brain injuries. However, the research suggests that this specific type of epilepsy does not appear to be more challenging to treat.

The implications of these findings are significant, offering the potential for enhanced diagnostic practices, better patient care, and clearer prognostic information for those at risk of developing epilepsy following a brain injury.