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 MRI negative epilepsy. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your child.
The Physical Impact
MRI negative epilepsy refers to seizure disorders in which standard MRI scans do not reveal any obvious abnormalities in the brain. Despite the normal appearance on imaging, children with MRI negative epilepsy may still experience frequent or severe seizures that can impact their daily life, cognitive development, and social interactions. Identifying the underlying cause of these seizures often requires more specialized diagnostic approaches, and targeted therapies can help reduce or control them effectively.
How Common Is This Condition?
MRI negative epilepsy is more common than one might expect, as a significant number of epilepsy cases show no visible lesions or structural abnormalities on routine MRI scans. Several factors can contribute, including subtle developmental changes or microscopic scarring that regular imaging may miss. Ongoing research aims to refine imaging techniques and identify genetic or molecular causes that may contribute to these “invisible” epilepsies.
Risk Factors:
- Genetic predisposition or family history of epilepsy
- Previous head trauma or infection not evident on MRI
- Subtle developmental abnormalities
- Potential metabolic or immunological factors
Signs and Symptoms
Children with MRI negative epilepsy can experience the same wide range of seizure types and severities as those whose epilepsy shows up on imaging. Common signs include:
- Focal seizures, which may or may not progress to generalized seizures
- Generalized tonic-clonic (convulsive) seizures
- Atonic (drop) seizures leading to sudden loss of muscle tone
- Absence (staring) episodes
- Myoclonic (brief, shock-like muscle jerks) seizures
- Cognitive, behavioral, or developmental challenges
How We Diagnose
At the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, diagnosing MRI negative epilepsy requires a thorough evaluation of your child's medical history, seizure patterns, and overall development. Our comprehensive diagnostic process may include:
- EEG (Electroencephalogram): Monitors and identifies abnormal brain wave patterns associated with seizures.
- Video-EEG Monitoring: Captures seizures on video while simultaneously recording EEG data, providing crucial insights into seizure onset.
- Advanced Imaging: Specialized MRI protocols, PET scans, SPECT scans, or MEG (magnetoencephalography) to detect subtle changes not visible on standard MRIs.
- Genetic and Metabolic Testing: Identifies potential inherited or biochemical factors contributing to seizures.
This multi-pronged approach allows us to pinpoint the origin of seizures and develop a personalized treatment strategy.
Treatment Options
Managing MRI negative epilepsy involves controlling seizures, improving quality of life, and addressing any developmental or cognitive effects. Treatment options may include:
- Anti-Seizure Medications: Selected based on seizure type and response history.
- Dietary Therapies: The ketogenic or modified Atkins diet can be effective, particularly for hard-to-control seizures.
- Medical Devices: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) or responsive neurostimulation (RNS) may help reduce seizure frequency.
- Surgical Evaluation: Even without visible lesions on MRI, surgical treatments may be considered if advanced diagnostics pinpoint a focus for seizure activity.
- Comprehensive Support Services: Therapy and educational accommodations to address developmental, behavioral, or academic challenges.
Our team at the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey employs a multidisciplinary approach, partnering with you to find the most effective strategies for managing your child's seizures.
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.”
