Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome: Key Issues to be Discussed at 2024 American Epilepsy Society Meeting

Major Focus on Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome at the 2024 AES Meeting

From December 6 to 10, 2024, the American Epilepsy Society (AES) will host its annual meeting in Los Angeles, with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) taking center stage as a pivotal topic. This notable inclusion reflects an upsurge in research and awareness surrounding LGS, which is a severe, life-threatening epilepsy syndrome that manifests in childhood and is characterized by frequent seizures and cognitive decline.

Dr. Tracy Dixon-Salazar, an esteemed figure in the field and the Executive Director of the LGS Foundation, will be speaking on the complexities of LGS in adults on Friday, December 6, at 6:00 PM. Her address will delve into the multifaceted challenges that individuals with LGS face, including various types of seizures, coexisting conditions, and the needs of caregivers.

Two days later, on Sunday, December 8, there will be a pivotal debate on whether LGS should be viewed as a diagnosis in its own right or if the treatment should focus primarily on the types of seizures associated with the syndrome. Following this, another session at 3:15 PM will focus on opening avenues for new therapeutic options for developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) through clinical trials.

In addition to the sessions, attendees will have opportunities for further learning, with a special musical event titled "It's All Your Fault, Tyler Price!" being showcased on Thursday evening at The Hudson Theatre. Further, the LGS Foundation will have a booth in the Epilepsy Resource Area of the Exhibit Hall, welcoming participants from your event throughout the weekend.

Key sessions also include a Pediatric State of the Art Symposium on Saturday, December 7, aimed at ushering in innovative treatment and prevention strategies for LGS, and another workshop discussing whether treatments for generalized epilepsy should be syndrome-specific or more broadly applicable.

The LGS Foundation, which has invested over $1.8 million in research over the past 15 years, aims to spearhead initiatives that will significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected by LGS. Dr. Mike McConnell, the Foundation’s Scientific Director, noted that their upcoming initiative, "Our LGS Life Study," represents a crucial step towards patient-centered research in this rare disease. This natural history study seeks to document the lived experiences of LGS patients and leverage these insights for better clinical practices.

As LGS remains a unique and severe form of epilepsy with no established cure, discussions surrounding innovative approaches to treatment and support are essential. The LGS Foundation remains committed to improving stakeholders' circumstances through ongoing education, research funding, and community engagement. The dedication of organizations like the LGS Foundation to increase understanding and create resources for families dealing with LGS is critical in moving toward more effective therapeutic strategies and improving the lives of those impacted.

This year's AES conference serves as a significant platform for sharing knowledge, advancing research, and fostering a greater understanding of Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome.

For more information on the event and to connect with the community, visit the LGS Foundation website.