Shazam Hussain, Nizam Ahmed.
Epilepsy and Crohn`s disease.
Pak J Neurological Sci Jan ;1(3):132-5.

Background: Seizures are described in Crohn`s disease. The etiology of these seizures is unclear but is thought to be related to inflammatory or hypercoagulable mechanisms. We have found a group of patients with both epilepsy and Crohn`s disease, without significant abnormalities on imaging, raising the possibility of a genetic link. A genetic etiology has been described in Crohn`s disease, specifically in relation to IBD 1 (NOD2) gene. Many genetic defects have also been found to increase susceptibility to seizures. We explored these cases to find support for a possible genetic link between seizures and Crohn`s disease. Methods: Case series/Literature review. Case descriptions: Four patients of the 150 patients in our epilepsy clinic were identified with Crohn`s disease, a much higher prevalence than would be expected from population prevalence of the disease. The case presentations of these patients are described, as well as an additional patient not affected by Crohn`s but with a strong family history of the condition. The patients` family histories are explored. All of our patients have positive family histories of either seizures or Crohn`s disease. Two of the patients have family histories both of seizures and Crohn`s disease. Conclusion: Genetic associations have been described for both seizures and Crohn`s disease. Coexistence of two genetically transmitted diseases, such as Crohn`s disease and Epilepsy and Crohn`s Disease 2 epilepsy, can help in chromosomal and genetic localization. Our case series raises the possibility of this association and can serve as a nidus for future research.

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