Audit of the management of patients with refractory epilepsy.
Seizure
; 3(4): 295-9, 1994 Dec.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-7894840
ABSTRACT
Achieving rational management for patients with refractory epilepsy can be difficult. We audited our management of 55 patients with refractory epilepsy by comparing two 3-month periods each 9 months apart. Despite attempts to rationalize antiepileptic drug therapy, a smaller proportion of patients were managed with monotherapy by the second analysis (16% vs 22%); however fewer patients were taking three or more AEDs (28% vs 43%). A substantial impact on seizure frequency was made in only six patients whilst 22 patients had a significant deterioration in seizure number (P = 0.005). Monitoring of AED levels was of little value with only six clinical decisions based on 305 AED levels performed at a cost of 2525 pounds. The newer AEDs accounted for a disproportionate expenditure (65% of the total AED cost in the second 3-month period) considering their lack of therapeutic impact. We confirm the need for audit in this patient group to ensure that pre-defined targets are met.
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Banco de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Epilepsia
/
Auditoría Médica
Tipo de estudio:
Prognostic_studies
Límite:
Adolescent
/
Adult
/
Aged
/
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
/
Middle aged
Idioma:
En
Año:
1994
Tipo del documento:
Article