Sudden unexplained death in children with epilepsy: A cohort study with an eighteen-year follow-up

Abstract

Aim: Sudden unexplained death is a significant cause of mortality in adults with epilepsy. Only a few data exist about this risk in childhood. Methods: Cases of sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP) up to the age of 18 y occurring at our hospital between 1984 and 2001 were identified. The incidence rate was calculated on the basis of diagnosed epileptics registered with a statutory disability insurance scheme. Results: Four cases of SUDEP were identified during the 18-y period. The incidence of SUDEP was 4.3 per 10 000 patient-years. All children showed polytherapy-refractory epilepsy, developmental retardation and early-onset epilepsy. Two witnessed cases had shown no previous signs of seizure. Conclusion: SUDEP is rare in childhood. Children with uncomplicated epilepsy seem not to be at risk.