What is Dravet Syndrome?
Dravet Syndrome is often described as a form of epilepsy. However, epilepsy is just one part of this neurological condition.
As well as severe, difficult-to-control seizures, children and adults living with Dravet Syndrome have varying degrees of intellectual disability and a spectrum of associated conditions, known as ‘comorbidities’. These can include: autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), challenging behaviour and difficulties with speech, mobility, eating and sleep.
A ‘spectrum’ condition
Every child or adult with Dravet Syndrome is different. They share the key characteristics of the condition, but the range and severity of symptoms (especially the non-seizure aspects) vary from person to person. This is why you’ll see that we often talk about Dravet Syndrome as being a ‘spectrum’ condition. However, for all, the condition is complex and can be unpredictable.
In this section, you can find out more about Dravet Syndrome. Click on the images below to discover more.
A brief history of Dravet Syndrome
Discover more about the background of this relatively newly diagnosed condition.
What causes Dravet Syndrome?
Find out how Dravet Syndrome develops when one of the genes in a part of the brain doesn't function as it should.
Which genes cause Dravet Syndrome?
Read more about how 85% of people with a diagnosis of Dravet Syndrome have a change (mutation) in the gene known as SCN1A.
Genetic testing
Discover the benefits of getting tested for genes that can cause Dravet Syndrome and what is involved.
Gene therapy treatments
Read about gene-based therapies that are currently being explored for Dravet Syndrome and what this might mean for future treatment.
Seizures
Find out more about the common seizures associated with Dravet Syndrome.
Non-seizure aspects of Dravet Syndrome
From autism spectrum disorder to concerns about nutrition, this section will tell you more about the ‘comorbidities’ of Dravet Syndrome.
