Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is a rare and severe form of epilepsy that typically begins in childhood. It is characterized by multiple types of seizures, intellectual disability, and abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG) patterns.
Seizures: Individuals with LGS experience different types of seizures, including tonic seizures (muscle stiffness), atonic seizures (sudden loss of muscle tone), and atypical absence seizures (brief loss of awareness).
Intellectual disability: LGS often leads to cognitive impairment, affecting a person's ability to learn, think, and solve problems. Intellectual disability can range from mild to severe.
EEG patterns: EEG tests reveal abnormal brain wave patterns in individuals with LGS, which can help in diagnosing the condition.
LGS can have various causes, including brain malformations, genetic mutations, or brain injuries. It can significantly impact the quality of life for both individuals with LGS and their families. Treatment options for LGS include antiepileptic medications, dietary therapies, and in some cases, surgery.