Pattern and presentation of epilepsy in Nigerian Africans: a study of trends in the southeast

One-quarter of the 40 million individuals estimated to have epilepsy in the developing world live in Africa. Data on epilepsy in Nigeria are scanty. The disease is associated with significant socioeconomic effects. This study reviewed the pattern of presentation of epilepsy in Enugu, southeast Nigeria. A retrospective study was performed of adult epilepsy patients who presented to the medical clinic at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, from January 2002 to December 2006. Case records were reviewed and data were extracted using a pro forma and analysed. A total of 207 patients were studied (113 males and 94 females). Most affected were those aged 15-34 years. Approximately 22% had childhood seizures and approximately 88% had generalised convulsive seizures. Electroencephalography was not performed in 85% of cases. Alcohol use and head injury were seizure risks in 12% and 20% of patients, respectively. More than 25% reported socioeconomic effects, including stigmatisation and job loss. Monotherapy was used in 89% of patients, with 71% having good control. Epilepsy is a considerable source of stigma and misery for sufferers in Nigeria. There is a need for greater public health education as well as training and re-training of specialists in its management.