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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Sexuality in teenagers with epilepsy

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Author(s):
de Vincendis, Silvia [1] ; Febronio, Marilia Vieira [2] ; da Silva, Clovis Artur Almeida [3] ; Saito, Maria Ignez [4] ; Takiuti, Albertina Duarte [5] ; Valente, Kette Dualibi Ramos [1]
Total Authors: 6
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Clin Neurophysiol Lab, Inst & Dept Psychiat, Hosp Clin, BR-05508 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Div Rheumatol, Hosp Clin, BR-05508 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Child Rheumatol Unit, Dept Pediat, Childrens Inst, Hosp Clin, BR-05508 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[4] Univ Sao Paulo, Adolescents Unit, Dept Pediat, Childrens Inst, Hosp Clin, BR-05508 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[5] Univ Sao Paulo, Div Gynaecol, Hosp Clin, BR-05508 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 5
Document type: Journal article
Source: Epilepsy & Behavior; v. 13, n. 4, p. 703-706, NOV 2008.
Web of Science Citations: 6
Abstract

Objectives: In adults with epilepsy it is well known that the epileptic syndrome, seizure frequency and antiepileptic drug use may influence sexual function and behavior. However, knowledge acquired with adult populations has been extrapolated to teenagers, based on the supposition that these patients are influenced by similar factors. This study aimed to evaluate aspects related to sexuality obtained from female adolescents with epilepsy. Methods: We carried out a prospective study of 35 female adolescents, with epilepsy, with ages from 10 to 20 years, and epileptic syndromes diagnosed according to ILAE criteria (1989). Information on sexual function and behavior of adolescents with epilepsy was evaluated by use of a standard questionnaire. Exclusion criteria were lack of menarche, previous endocrine or chronic clinical disorders, and moderate to severe mental retardation. Results: No differences were observed between the age at first sexual intercourse, sexual activity, libido and orgasm of adolescents with epilepsy when compared to controls. Epilepsy clinical variables Such as age of onset, duration and severity had no significant relationship with distinct aspects of sexual function and behavior. Conclusion: Adolescents with epilepsy represent a special patient group because, even with their chronic disorder, they have an active sexual life, despite the severity of their disorder. Therefore, aspects related to sexuality require special attention by health professionals when attending to adolescents with epilepsy. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. (AU)