RESUMEN
Background: The management of epilepsy is mainly based on antiseizure medications (ASMs). More than 20 ASMs have been introduced in clinical practice, providing a multitude of prescription choices. To date, there are no published data on the trends in ASMs prescriptions in Morocco. Therefore, we conducted a survey among practicing neurologists in seven tertiary referral hospitals in Morocco to study the current ASMs prescription preferences and their modifying factors. Methods: Our descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was based on a survey sent between January and April 2022 to neurologists practicing in seven tertiary referral hospitals in Morocco. Information regarding the prescription of ASMs was collected using an exploitation form and analyzed using the SPSS version 13 software. Results: Based on questionnaire responses, our results showed that Valproic acid (96.3%) and Lamotrigine (59.8%) were the two most prescribed ASMs for generalized seizure types. For focal seizure types, Carbamazepine (98.8%) and Levetiracetam (34.1%) were the most commonly prescribed drugs, whereas for combined focal and generalized seizure types, the combination of Valproic acid and Carbamazepine (38.55%) was the most prescribed. Phenobarbital was the most commonly prescribed ASM for status epilepticus (40.2%). These prescription preferences were mainly due to seizure types, cost, health insurance coverage, years of experience, and additional epileptology training (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results show a shift in the prescription of ASMs in Morocco. Similar to many other countries, valproic acid and carbamazepine are considered the first-line treatments for generalized and focal seizure types. Some factors remain as major challenges in enhancing epilepsy management in Morocco.
RESUMEN
Steroid-responsive encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroiditis (SREAT) is a rare condition defined as encephalopathy with a positive antithyroid antibody. We report the case of a 52-year-old woman who presented with Parkinsonism associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. A few similar cases have been reported. Our patient responded well to corticosteroids with a significant reduction in symptoms. Diagnosis can pose a significant challenge in SREAT cases because of its variable clinical presentation. Therefore, we recommend evaluating thyroid function and thyroid autoantibodies in the context of acute and subacute encephalopathy. In the elderly population, SREAT, as a cause of Parkinsonism, should not be forgotten because of its simple treatment and significant improvements in neurological symptoms.