Seizure investigation in children
Sometimes a child can have seizures but the cause remains unclear. When epilepsy is suspected or when it is doubted, further investigation in an expertise center such as Kempenhaeghe can offer more insight in the cause and nature of the seizures.
From EEGs and sometimes extra examinations the (pediatric) neurologist can confirm epilepsy. After determination extra examinations may be needed to determine the best possible treatment and support. Also read: ‘When your child has epilepsy’.
Sometimes there are symptoms that look like epileptic seizures, but they are not. A small part of the children that come to Kempenhaeghe suffer from so called psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNEA). These children can also be treated in Kempenhaeghe by a specialized team.
Examinations can determine that the seizures are possibly associated with a sleep disorder. In this case, the doctor might suggest subsequent examinations in the Center for Sleep Cure & Care.
When the seizures likely have another (physical) cause, the child is referred back with the recommendation to consult another medical specialist.