Epilepsy in Children and Youth: Advanced Program

Young husband and wife with their young daughter of 3 years-old

This series builds on the foundational curriculum and aims to develop proficiency in the management of epilepsy.

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This program explores a range of complex topics such as drug resistant epilepsy, polypharmacy, genetics, ketogenic diet, and more. This program is intended for clinicians who are seeking to further their competencies in epileptology.

Case Support

Healthcare providers can present your de-identified case for advice, support and written recommendations.

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This series is facilitated by McMaster Children’s Hospital.

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.

Polypharmacy

Identify evidence-supported indications and dosing
Recognize common drug-drug interactions and side effects

Genetics 101: An Overview

Recognize epilepsy can be a genetic condition
Identify patients with epilepsy that may benefit from genetic testing
Describe the process of genetic testing for epilepsy in Ontario

Ketogenic Diet

Describe the underlying mechanism of the ketogenic diet
Identify how the diet is monitored in children with epilepsy
Recognize clinical considerations for ketogenic diet as a treatment option for children living with epilepsy

Medical Cannabis Therapy

Identify the evidence-supported indications and dosing for cannabinoid therapy in epilepsy
Recognize common drug-drug interactions, side effects, and practical considerations in using cannabinoids in pediatric epilepsy
Describe the ways in which healthcare professionals can support and facilitate families in accessing medical cannabis

Epilepsy Surgery and When to Refer

Identify drug resistant epilepsy (DRE)
Recognize when to refer to a paediatric epilepsy program, referral pathways available in Ontario
Describe the importance of counseling regarding DRE

Adolescents and Epilepsy (gender issues, driving, pregnancy, SUDEP)

Recognize issues that may arise as children with epilepsy become teenagers including contraception and pregnancy, driving, and mood disorders
Identify the risk factors for SUDEP, current preventative measures, and the importance of counselling patients and families
Recognize factors impacting health care transition for youth with epilepsy

Co-morbidities

Identify the most common psychiatry and somatic co-morbidities associated to epilepsy
Discuss the management of the common psychiatric and somatic co-morbidities associated with epilepsy