The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey is a team of board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons who provide expert care for a variety of pediatric neurological conditions, including drop attacks. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your child.
The Physical Impact
Drop attacks, also known as atonic seizures or “astatic” seizures, involve a sudden loss of muscle tone that causes a child to collapse unexpectedly. These episodes can occur without warning and may lead to injuries from falls. Drop attacks can be challenging for both children and their families, as they impact daily activities, independence, and quality of life. Early intervention and a targeted management strategy can help reduce the frequency of these seizures and improve overall safety and well-being.
How Common Is This Condition?
Drop attacks are relatively uncommon compared to other seizure types, but they are frequently associated with certain forms of epilepsy and epilepsy syndromes, such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Doose syndrome. Although they may appear at any age, they often begin in early childhood.
Risk Factors:
- Underlying epilepsy syndromes
- Genetic predisposition to seizure disorders
- Co-occurring neurological or developmental conditions
Signs and Symptoms
Children experiencing drop attacks may display:
- Sudden loss of muscle tone causing falls
- Brief staring spells preceding the collapse
- Quick recovery after the event, often without confusion
- Possible frequent bruises, cuts, or injuries due to unexpected falls
- Co-occurring seizures of other types (e.g., myoclonic, tonic-clonic) if part of a broader epilepsy syndrome
How We Diagnose
At the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, diagnosing drop attacks begins with a thorough assessment of your child's medical history, seizure descriptions, and overall health. We employ a range of diagnostic tools to pinpoint the nature of these events:
- EEG (Electroencephalogram): Identifies abnormal brain activity that may indicate a seizure disorder.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Detects structural brain abnormalities that could contribute to seizures.
- Video-EEG Monitoring:Captures seizures as they happen, providing clear insights into their origin and pattern.
- Neurodevelopmental Evaluations:Assesses any associated cognitive or developmental challenges.
This comprehensive approach ensures that we understand the root causes of your child's drop attacks, guiding us toward an effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Managing drop attacks often involves reducing seizure frequency and improving safety. Treatment options may include:
- Medications: Tailored anti-seizure drugs selected for their effectiveness in controlling atonic seizures.
- Dietary Therapies: The ketogenic or modified Atkins diet can be beneficial in some cases.
- Medical Devices: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) may help decrease seizure frequency and intensity.
- Behavioral and Environmental Adjustments: Using protective headgear, modifying home environments, and working closely with therapists and educators to enhance your child's safety and independence.
The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey takes a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating with families to find the best combination of treatments and support services.
Our Commitment to Your Child's Health
“I am neurosurgeon living in New Jersey, board-certified by both the American Board of Neurosurgery (ABNS) and Pediatric Neurosurgery (ABPNS). I specialize in the surgical treatment of complex epilepsy and serve as the Director of the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, Chief of Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery at Sanzari Children's Hospital, and Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Children's Hospital of NJ, where I provide exceptional care for children with complex neurological conditions. Your child's health and well-being are our top priorities.”
