Abstract

Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain characterized by an enduring predisposition to generate epileptic seizures and by the neurobiological, cognitive, psychological and social consequences of this condition . Chronic epilepsy is when the seizures are occurring for 5 or more years after the initiation of therapy. Cognitive impairments, as well as mood and behavioural problems, represent very common comorbidities of epilepsy. Present study is designed to assess the effect of chronic epilepsy on cognitive functions in study participants with chronic epilepsy. Cognitive assessment is done using 2 of the validated scales - ADDENBROOKE’S COGNITIVE EXAMINATION–ACE-III and FRONTAL ASSESSMENT BATTERY SCALE (FAB). ObjectiveTo assess the socio-demographic profile, epilepsy disease and treatment related characteristics of study population. To assess and compare the cognitive function using two different scales in study participants. Methods and Material- An observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre in Bhopal. Those with established history of chronic epilepsy in the age group of 18 years and above included in study. Tools used for cognitive function assessment are ADDENBROOKE’S COGNITIVE EXAMINATION–ACE-III and FRONTAL ASSESSMENT BATTERY- Questionnaire for Similarities. Results and Conclusion- In present study middle age male participants were more with lesser participants with any kind of addiction. Mono-therapy, aura and premonitory symptoms were common among study participants. ACE-III tool revealed that only 21% participates had cognitive function decline while FAB score revealed 43% participants had cognitive function decline. Present study concludes that some degree of decline is there in chronic epilepsy patients. An early assessment of cognition and intervention can help these patients to live a productive life

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