Genetic Testing in Epilepsy Aids Clinical Management and Improves Outcomes

A study evaluating the utility of genetic tests found that almost 50% of people with epilepsy who had genetic tests had results that led to changes in clinical care. Further, those changes improved clinical outcomes in 75% of cases.

Clinical care changes included antiseizure medication adjustments and typically occurred within 3 months of receiving positive genetic testing results. Positive outcomes included seizure reduction, seizure freedom, and improved behavior, development, academic performance, and movement issues.
 
"Epilepsy impacts the lives of approximately 50 million people worldwide and our findings further demonstrate the value of genetic testing to drive precision treatment decisions for these patients," said lead study author, Dee McKnight, PhD, Fellow of the American College of Medical Genetics (FACMG). "These results build on the growing evidence that genetic testing at the first presentation with epilepsy can be a key part of an accurate diagnosis and can play an important role in its initial treatment and ongoing management, improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs."

This study underscores the importance of genetic testing for people with epilepsy. The study supports medical genetic testing can improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The findings for the study were presented at the National Society of Genetic Counselors 40th Annual Conference.