Can pediatric epilepsy affect brain development?

Whether pediatric epilepsy affects brain development mainly depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment received. In general, mild epilepsy has little impact on brain development. With appropriate medication and proper lifestyle management, most children can control seizures effectively, without significant effects on intelligence or motor skills. However, severe or drug-resistant epilepsy may lead to abnormal electrical discharges in the cerebral cortex. Prolonged or frequent seizures over time may cause brain damage, and even localized brain atrophy, thereby impairing brain development and potentially leading to intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, and cognitive impairments. Therefore, parents of children with epilepsy should closely monitor their child's condition, actively cooperate with medical treatment, and attend regular follow-up evaluations to ensure optimal brain development.