SUDEP Communication
Description
This presentation will review SUDEP discussion with a focus on challenges/perceived barriers and strategies aiming to improve communication and comfort.
Pediatric Neurology Research Update: Epidemiology, Mechanisms and Management of SUDEP*
Date: September 14, 2025
Time: 11:45 am to 12:45 pm
Track: Interactive Lunch Workshop
Session Description
SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) a common cause of premature death in children and adults with epilepsy but counseling of patients and their parents is limited by the rarity of the disorder. This session will review the epidemiology, risk factors, and current understanding of the mechanisms of SUDEP in children. The talks will also discuss caregiver preferences for communication about SUDEP and provide a conversation guide for clinicians to support those discussions.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, attendees should be able to:
- Understand current hypotheses on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying SUDEP.
- Learn the prevalence and risk factors of SUDEP.
- Discuss the clinical features of SUDEP and identify preventive strategies and approaches to counseling patients and families.
Speakers
Definition and Epidemiology of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) in Children
Description
This presentation will review the definition, incidence, risk factors, and protective factors of SUDEP, a devastating outcome for children with epilepsy.
Speakers
SUDEP in the Context of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood)
Description
This presentation will present evidence supporting the idea that there is a unified continuum of neurologic vulnerability in SIDS, SUDC and SUDEP.