EXPLORING COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENTS IN DRUG-RESISTANT EPILEPSY: INSIGHTS FROM A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

This article explores the cognitive impairments in individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy compared to those with well-controlled epilepsy. The research involves 102 subjects (62 with drugresistant epilepsy and 40 with well-controlled epilepsy), and examines cognitive functions such as verbal and visual memory, attention and language. Subjects were assessed with the MoCA test; the Rey Auditory Verbal Test; the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure; the Trail Making Test (parts A and B) and the F-A-S language test. Results show that cognitive deficits are three times more frequent in the drug-resistant epilepsy group, with significant impairments in verbal memory, visual memory, attention and semantic fluency. Additionally, drug-resistant epilepsy individuals, particularly those aged 50-59, with lower education, and more frequent seizures, exhibit more pronounced cognitive issues. These findings align with international research, confirming the strong correlation between seizure frequency and cognitive decline in epilepsy. The study highlights the need for personalized cognitive assessments and interventions for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy.