Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) is the most common type of generalized seizure disorder that begins around the time of puberty. People with JME have combinations of generalized seizures myoclonic limb jerks, absence (petit mal) seizures, and sometimes thinking or behavior problems. Genes have been identified predisposing to this syndrome. The general impression among physicians has been that JME does not disappear and antiepileptic medication should be continued for life. Now a study by the Camfield’s in Nova Scotia, Canada published in the journal Neurology 2009, volume 73, page 64, followed 24 patients with JME for an average of over 25 years. At end of follow-up 48% had discontinued treatment and 25% were seizure-free off medications. About one in eight had only non-disabling myoclonic seizures while off medications. Quality of life was good for the majority. Overall, troublesome seizures disappeared and antiepileptic drug therapy was not necessary for about one third of people with JME. However, some continueed to be bothered by depression, unemployment, social isolation and impulsiveness. Overall, the long-term prognosis of JME may be better than previously was thought.

For more information, see our section on Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy.

Robert S. Fisher, M.D., Ph.D.
Editor-in-Chief, epilepsy.com