Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome is characterized by two or more types of seizures, mental retardation, and a particular EEG pattern with slow spike-and-waves. Typically beginning between the ages of 2 and 6, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome has no known cause, but is commonly found in children with brain development problems or acquired brain damage.
Children with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome commonly experience multiple seizure types, including:
Atonic (Falling Down) Seizures
Tonic Seizures
Atypical Absence Seizures
Tonic-Clonic Seizures
Because atonic seizures cause children to fall to the ground, many children are forced to wear helmets to protect their teeth and face from trauma.
How is Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome treated?
Management can be challenging and can include anticonvulsant medications, vagus nerve stimulator, and certain types of surgery to control seizures that cause injuries.
