Factores de riesgo y diagnóstico de epilepsia en adolescentes. Revisión sistemática

Abstract

Epilepsy is a disorder caused by abnormal discharges in neurons; it is associated with risk factors such as a family history of epilepsy, cranioencephalic trauma, electrolyte imbalance, preeclampsia, and birth asphyxia. Worldwide prevalence affects 0.5-1% of the population, with a higher incidence in males. Data reveal that approximately 30% of this prevalence falls within the 10 to 25 years age range, with 75% of cases presenting before age 20. In Ecuador, epilepsy prevalence is 7 to 12 cases per 1,000 inhabitants, with concerns about its rising incidence. Objective: To analyze the risk factors and updated diagnostic methods for adolescent epilepsy. Methodology: A systemic, descriptive review using a qualitative and quantitative approach was conducted in SciELO, PudMed, Medigraphic, the Spanish Society of Neurology (SEN by its Spanish acronym), and Scopus databases it selected 25 scientific articles published in the last 5 years, according to the eligibility criteria using the PRISMA 2020 guide. Results: The most frequent risk factors were premature birth at 64.28%, asphyxia at birth at 50%, heredofamilial history of epilepsy at 42.85%, and neonatal hypoglycemia at 42.85%, among others; on the other hand, new diagnostic methods include genetic studies, stereotactic electroencephalography, and voxel-based magnetic resonance imaging. Conclusions: Epilepsy has become a significant health issue, with neonatal risk factors being crucial to its development; new efficient diagnostic methods facilitate identifying and treating this pathology. Keywords: adolescents, epilepsy, risk factors, diagnosis