Continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep in an adult

Epilepsy Behav. 2008 Apr;12(3):489-91. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2007.12.016. Epub 2008 Feb 4.

Abstract

Continuous spikes and waves during slow wave sleep (CSWS) is rare and is considered to be an age-related epileptic syndrome occurring only in children. We report the case of a 21-year-old patient diagnosed with this syndrome. The patient had a history of seizures since the age of 3 and was admitted for continuous video/EEG monitoring to evaluate seizure exacerbation and unprovoked outbursts of anger. During 3 days of monitoring, awake EEG recordings showed focal slow wave activity in the right temporal region. CSWS were observed. After a change in his antiepileptic drug regimen, subsequent EEG recordings showed resolution of CSWS. As shown in our patient, CSWS can be observed in adults. In addition, continuous video/EEG monitoring including sleep is important in the evaluation of patients with sudden deterioration of seizure control accompanied by behavioral changes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Electroencephalography / methods
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Seizures / complications*
  • Sleep Wake Disorders / complications*
  • Sleep, REM / physiology*
  • Video Recording
  • Wakefulness / physiology