Breakthrough Research Presented At American Epilepsy Society (AES) Meeting

Main Category: Epilepsy
Article Date: 01 Dec 2006 - 0:00 PDT

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Close to 4,000 physicians, researchers, nurses and other healthcare professionals from around the world have gathered in San Diego starting today through Tuesday, December 5th, for the 1st North American Regional Epilepsy Congress with the American Epilepsy Society (AES), the Canadian League Against Epilepsy and the Jamaican Chapter of the International League Against Epilepsy.

Experts are sharing innovative news concerning recent advances in genetic research, diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy, one of the most common brain disorders in the world, and a neurological ailment that affects 55 million people worldwide. For the next five days, San Diego's Convention Center will be filled with poster and platform presentations, lectures, workshops, satellite symposia, publications, scientific exhibitions and commercial exhibits.

4th Annual Judith Hoyer Lecture

This year's meeting kicks off on Friday evening with the 4th Annual Judith Hoyer Lecture in Epilepsy, titled Discovery in Epilepsy Research: Rethinking the Quest for Cures. This year's lecture will feature Daniel Lowenstein, M.D., Professor and Vice Chairman in the Department of Neurology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Director of the UCSF Epilepsy Center, Director of Physician-Scientist and Education Training Programs for the UCSF School of Medicine and past president of the American Epilepsy Society. Dr. Lowenstein will provide a unique perspective on the biological basis of epilepsy and translating this understanding into effective therapies. The 4th Judith Hoyer Lecture in Epilepsy honors the memory of Mrs. Judith Hoyer, late wife of The Honorable Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland.

HOT TOPICS:

Leading medical and scientific experts will discuss the latest research in the diagnosis, treatment and scientific understanding of epilepsy on a number of topics.

I. Ages & Stages of Epilepsy:

Epilepsy affects approximately 55 million people worldwide. With advances in pediatric care, a renewed global focus on women's health, and an impending age wave, the "Ages and Stages of Epilepsy" will provide information about the newest research, current obstacles and the most recent developments affecting infants, expectant mothers and geriatric patients.

IA. "Pregnancy Registry Outcomes - Update and Discussion of Data from Pregnancy Registries"

Friday December 1st / 2:00-3:30 PM

Kimford Meador, MD

University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

Using the most up-to-date information from the major antiepileptic drug (AED) pregnancy registries and other data regarding pregnancy outcomes, Dr. Meador will discuss the goal of improving evidence-based decisions in treating women of childbearing age who have epilepsy.

IB. "Pediatric Epilepsy Case Presentations"

Saturday, December 2nd / 3:00-4:30 PM

Douglas Nordli, MD, Ph.D.

Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL

Dr. Nordli discusses challenges of treating pediatric epilepsy, including diagnosis and treatment of epileptic seizures, seizure semiology and EEG features of epilepsy in infants and children. Other items of discussion will include innovative approaches to treatment, recognition and management of congenital and acquired etiologies of pediatric epilepsy and epilepsy surgery.

IC. "Epilepsy and the Older Adult - Midlife and Beyond"

Kevin Kelly MD, Ph.D.

Drexel University College of Medicine

Allegheny Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA

According to the National Council on Aging, those over 65 now constitute the most rapidly growing population with epilepsy. As an estimated 76 million baby boomers prepare to enter their senior years, Dr. Kelly will address how epilepsy affects the lifestyle of the older adult and will highlight barriers in treatment affecting this population.

II. Hispanic Epilepsy Data

"Neurocysticercosis: Old Disease, New Concepts"

Friday, December 1st / 4:00-6:30 PM PST

Vicente Iragui, M.D., Ph.D.

University of California, San Diego

Dr. Iragui discusses cysticercosis; the most common cause of epilepsy in developing countries, especially Spanish-speaking countries and areas with a sizable Hispanic population. The presentation will focus on the cause and development of this disease as well as diagnosis, and manifestations such as epilepsy. Additionally, pharmacological and surgical therapy as well as preventative measures will be discussed.

III. Brain Oscillations: The Latest Research

"Brain Oscillations: Good and Bad Vibrations"

Sunday, December 3, 2006 / 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. PST

Jerome Engel, M.D., Ph.D.

UCLA School of Medicine

Understanding the normal and abnormal development of brain rhythms or oscillations is critical to the understanding of epilepsy and its consequences. Leading UCLA medical expert, Dr. Jerome Engel, will present the latest research on a potential marker for epilepsy called Fast Ripples(FR) that may aid in more accurate diagnoses of the condition.

About Epilepsy:

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects more than 2.7 million Americans. Characterized by recurrent seizures and caused by disturbed electrical rhythms of the central nervous system, epilepsy typically manifests itself through convulsive attacks usually with clouding of consciousness.

While there is not a cure for epilepsy, seizures can be controlled with preventive medications. Evidence suggests that early diagnosis and effective treatment can improve the long-term prognosis for people with epilepsy. Given the documented disruptions in education, employment, self-esteem and personal life that are caused by seizures, the quest for early recognition and treatment should be urgent.

About The American Epilepsy Society (AES):

The American Epilepsy Society, based in West Hartford, Connecticut, is one of the oldest neurological professional organizations in the nation, with roots dating to 1898. The Society promotes research and education for professionals dedicated to the prevention, treatment and cure of epilepsy. Membership in the Society is made up of clinicians and researchers investigating basic and clinical aspects of epilepsy, and other health-care professionals interested in seizure disorders. Members represent pediatric and adult sides of epilepsy.

The Society holds its scientific meeting annually, offering symposia, lectures, poster presentations and exhibitions. The meeting attracts close to 4,000 professionals from throughout the U.S. and abroad and offers excellent opportunities for networking and sharing of ideas.

American Epilepsy Society
http://www.aesnet.org/