Volume 8

Number 2, July 2026

Risk Factors and Neuroimaging Findings in New-Onset Focal Epilepsy in Bangladeshi Children

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47648/zhswmcj.2026.v0802.02

Miah Q1 , Fatema K2 , Kundu GK3 , Paul BC4 , Akhi SA5 , Chakroborty P6

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is a major cause of morbidity in children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where preventable perinatal and genetic risk factors are common. Data on childhood focal epilepsy in Bangladesh remain limited. Objective: To determine the frequency of risk factors and describe neuroimaging findings in children with new-onset focal epilepsy. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at Mount Adora Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh, from July 2024 to June 2025. Children aged 1–18 years with new-onset focal epilepsy were included. Clinical data and neuroimaging findings (CT/ MRI) were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Fifty-one children were studied (mean age 6.2 ± 3.8 years; 59% male), with most (80%) from rural areas. Perinatal asphyxia was reported in 21.6%, and 9.8% required NICU admission. Family history of epilepsy (27.4%) and parental consanguinity (21.6%) were common. Infections were rare (2% each for CNS infection and neonatal sepsis). Neuroimaging was abnormal in 35.3% of cases, predominantly infarctions (25.5%), followed by cortical atrophy (3.9%), structural abnormalities (3.9%), and basal ganglia hyperintensities (2%). Conclusion: Perinatal insults, hereditary factors, and rural health disparities play key roles in childhood focal epilepsy in Bangladesh. Improved obstetric care, expanded access to neuroimaging, and community-based epilepsy services are essential to reduce this burden.

Keywords: New-onset Focal epilepsy; Children; Risk factors; Perinatal asphyxia; Neuroimaging;


  1. Junior Consultant (Pediatric Neurology)

    Habiganj Medical College Hospital, Habiganj

  2. Chairman, Department of Paediatric Neurology

    Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), Dhaka

  3. Professor, Department of Paediatric Neurology

    Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), Dhaka

  4. Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatric Neurology

    Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), Dhaka

  5. Lecturer, Department of Biochemistry

    Habiganj Medical College Hospital, Habiganj

  6. Research Associate

    Dr. Benzamin’s Pediatric Liver Research Center and Nutrition Clinic, Sylhet

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Volume 8, Number 2, July 2026
Page: 11-18