Epilepsy is a relatively common disorder. Between one and one-and-one-half percent of the U.S. population suffers from epilepsy. It is difficult to imagine this fact since people with this disorder usually appear and function normally between the seizures. Yet, their lives are often dramatically affected in many ways, especially by the fear and embarrassment of having a seizure in public and by the consequences for employment, driving, insurance and above all the stigma of epilepsy which still pervades. That's why often times epilepsy is referred to as the "hidden disability."
The good news is that , epilepsy has made much progress. At the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute at JFK Medical Center, we have a team of professionals to help you take control of epilepsy. Our specialists are skilled and have many resources available to diagnose and treat epilepsy. Our team of physicians consists of adult and pediatric epileptologists, neurophysiologists, neuropsychologists and psychiatrists and an epilepsy surgeon. They have received special training for treating epilepsy and have devoted a significant portion of their careers to treating the difficult epilepsy population.
The first step in management of epilepsy is the correct diagnosis. At times, patients with narcolepsy, anxiety disorders or cardiac problems can be misdiagnosed as having epilepsy. Epileptologists at the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute get a detailed history of the patient followed by a careful examination. With a detailed history and physical examination, it is possible to establish both the type and cause of epilepsy.
A complete diagnosis of epilepsy is always supplemented by further testing, as described below.
Neuroimaging: MRI of the brain is performed using special techniques, such as flair imaging, gradient echo and MR spectroscopy. This state-of-the-art technology helps to bring out subtle abnormalities in the brain structure that can provide us with clues for causes of epilepsy.
Electroencephalogram (EEG): EEG is a brain wave test that is an extremely important tool in determining the correct type of epilepsy. EEG is performed using state-of-the-art digital computerized equipment. At the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute, in addition to a routine EEG, we have the capability to perform 24-hour ambulatory EEG and video EEG monitoring. These tests are able to give more accurate information that can solve many dilemmas.
Based on information obtained from clinical evaluation, MRI and EEG testing, the best treatment option is discussed with the patient and treatment is monitored closely. Above and beyond the state-of-the-art technology, human touch is the mainstay of the management of epilepsy at the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute.
In the recent past, several medications have become available for
treating epilepsy. At the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute, treatment
options include anti-epileptic medications (including participation
in clinical drug trials), surgical treatment (including the vagal
nerve stimulator) and epilepsy surgery. Alternative therapies, such
as the ketogenic diet and hormonal treatment, are also considered
in special situations.
Along with the better seizure control, many epilepsy patients at the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute are also benefited by neuropsychologic evaluation and treatment. This is recommended when apart from the seizures, a patient experiences memory problems and/or psychological problems, such as depression and anxiety.
The epilepsy team at the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute consists
of epileptologists, neurophysiologists, nurse coordinators, neuropsychologists,
neurosurgeons, a neuropathologist and EEG technologists. Our epilepsy
team is proud to be helping to cure epilepsy and, in some cases, allowing
the patients to take complete charge of their lives again. In other
cases, when complete cure is not possible, we have been able to improve
our patients' quality of life through individualized care in a supportive
setting.
Epilepsy Team
Abuhuziefa Abubakr, M.D.
Stephen Bloomfield, M.D.
Wei Ma, M.D.
Yongming Mao, M.D.
Kavitha Velicheti, MD