Epilepsy in Adults: Foundational Program

This series aims to enhance core competencies for the management of epilepsy.

MARCH 22 – MAY 3, 2023 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM EST | WEEKLY

This curriculum covers a spectrum of knowledge and skills that relate to the management of epilepsy including diagnostic tests, seizure semiology, anti-seizure medications (ASMs), identification and management of surgical candidates, and more. The program is designed for primary care providers and/or health care practitioners who are seeking to enhance their learning in epileptology.

This learning series is facilitated by Hamilton Health Sciences (HHSC) and London Health Sciences (LHSC).

Syllabus

CPD Accreditation (CPSO, U of T)

This Group Learning program meets the certification criteria of the College of Family Physicians of Canada and has been certified by Continuing Professional Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto for up for up to 1.0 Mainpro+ credits.

This event is an Accredited Group Learning Activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification Program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, approved by Continuing Professional Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto. You may claim a maximum of 1.0 hours.

First Seizure and Diagnosis, How to Assess (embed safety and MTO guidelines)

Describe the work up needed for a first seizure that can be undertaken by primary care providers
Differentiate between seizures and epilepsy
Discuss the treatment-decision making process for first seizure
Explore seizure safety implications including driving

Generalized vs Focal, Seizure Semiology

Differentiate between focal and generalized epilepsies
Distinguish between absence seizures and focal seizures
Identify key clinical features that help to differentiate seizure types that manifest with non-motor semiology

AEDs (when to prescribe, side effects, newer drugs)

Select appropriate medications based on patients’ needs and eligibility for drug benefits such as Ontario Drug Benefit Program and OHIP+
Describe commonly used anti-seizure medications in terms of their use, side effect profiles, and therapeutic drug monitoring considerations
Identify pros and cons of new vs. old anti-seizure medications

Diagnostic Tests (When to order, how to interpret)

Describe when to order appropriate neuroimaging protocols for patients with epilepsy
Recognize when to order further investigations based on EEG

Epilepsy and Migraine (differentiating, management)

Discuss the association between migraine epilepsy
Identify distinct clinical manifestation of epilepsy and migraines
Explore the management of migraines among patients living with epilepsy

The 10-minute Neuro Exam

Outline the components of a five-minute neurological exam
Illustrate how an efficient and focused neurological exam can inform accurate diagnosis

When to refer to an Epilepsy Centre/what do to after patient has seizure recurrence

Describe how to identify patients that may be surgical candidates
Identify patients that may be surgical candidates
Outline the appropriate referral pathway for surgical candidates

Clinical Leads

Dr. Jorge Burneo, Epileptologist

Medical Lead

Dr. Michelle Shapiro, Epileptologist

Medical Lead

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