This article arose out of an engagement in medical communication courses at a Gulf university. It deploys a theoretical framework derived from a (critical) sociocognitive approach to discourse analysis in order to investigate three aspects of medical discourse relating to childhood epilepsy: the cognitive processes that are entailed in relating…

This commentary on a study comparing use of the brand-name drug Depakene with generic valproic acid to control seizures in people with mental retardation notes the importance of distinguishing between Depakene and Depakote, which is an enteric-coated formulation for which there is no generic form currently available. (DB)

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, an uncommon but potentially lethal complication of antipsychotic medication, is reviewed, including analysis of 29 cases in which the condition appeared in individuals with mental retardation. Recommendations about reducing morbidity and mortality in this population are offered. (Author/DB)

Five responses to Alvarez (EC 220 238) comment on discontinuation of antiepileptic drugs with mentally retarded patients. (DB)

An epilepsy training program for school personnel is proposed as necessary for a multidisciplinary approach to treatment of children with epilepsy. (Author)

This commentary on a study comparing use of the brand name drug Depakene with generic valproic acid to control seizures in people with mental retardation focuses on issues of cost-effectiveness. It notes existing guidelines for pharmacoeconomic evaluation and suggests a possible model to include a threshold price (per quality-adjusted life year)…

This article reviews the most frequent causes of seizure disorders in young children and the classification of different seizure types. It discusses current therapies, including alternatives to medication. Emergency response to seizures is covered a well as non-epileptic episodes that may resemble seizures. Epilepsy's potential impact on the…