Improving Diagnosis and Classification of Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs)

ICNA Advocacy Webinar
Topic: Improving Diagnosis and Classification of Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs)
Speaker: Nicola Specchio
When: May 20, 2025
Time: 1 pm CEST

About Topic:

Improving Diagnosis and Classification of Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs)
• Emphasizing the importance of early and accurate diagnosis using genetic testing, electro-diagnostic tools, and imaging.
• Highlighting the role of multidisciplinary teams in identifying and classifying DEEs.
• Addressing the operational definition of DEEs and their age-dependent presentations.

Advancing Targeted and Personalized Treatment Approaches
• Discussing the shift from generalized treatment to etiology-specific and precision medicine strategies.
• Exploring emerging therapies, including genetic treatments, antisense oligonucleotides, and targeted antiseizure medications.
• Addressing challenges in treatment, including drug resistance and the importance of avoiding specific medications in certain genetic epilepsies.

Enhancing Patient Outcomes and Multidisciplinary Care
• Minimizing the impact of seizures on patients’ quality of life through early intervention.
• Promoting interdisciplinary collaboration among neurologists, geneticists, psychologists, and rehabilitation specialists.
• Recognizing and managing comorbidities such as cognitive impairments, motor dysfunction, and psychiatric conditions to improve long-term prognosis.