Advanced Imaging Tools in the Evaluation of Epileptogenic Foci in the Pediatric Population

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a known cause of intractable epilepsy in the pediatric population. It is caused by disorganization of cortical neurons, which results in an epileptogenic focus that may be isolated or associated with other cortical malformations [1,2]. Many patients with FCD have medically intractable epilepsy that significantly affects their quality of life. Surgical excision of these lesions results in marked improvement or complete resolution of the epileptic episodes. FCD is the most frequently identified pathologic substrate in children undergoing epilepsy neurosurgery [2]. In a study performed by Cepeda, FCD (excluding tuberous sclerosis) was identified in 45.5% of operated patients from age 2 months to 19 years [3].