Abstracts

Cognitive deficits in childhood temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is not well defined. The objective of this study is to attempt to identify specific neuropsychological deficits in children with TLE. We evaluated 11 children with clinical, electroencephalographic and MRI findings of TLE. They underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological examination aiming to assess: cognitive level, visual perception, attention, handedness, visuo-motor praxis, executive functions, language, memory and learning (verbal, visual and global). Tests were: WISC III, color and shape perception test, trail making test, Wisconsin card sorting test, Boston naming test, verbal fluency test, WRAML test. MRI showed right temporal lobe lesion in 7 patients. We identified memory (in 7 patients), language (naming; in 7 patients) and verbal fluency (executive function; in 4 patients) deficits. Mental flexibility was impaired in 9 patients. Despite the deficits, global IQ was normal in all patients. Children with TLE may present specific neuropsychological deficits that are not directly correlated with the lesion itself, but may suggest dysfunction of other cerebral areas, particularly the frontal lobes. (Supported by CAPES and FAPESP)