# A Multifaceted Approach to Seizure Management in a Patient With Down Syndrome, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Hypothyroidism: A Case Report

**Authors:** Takafumi Uchi, Shingo Konno, Hideo Kihara, Hideki Sugimoto

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55465 · Cureus · 2024-03-03

## TL;DR

A 16-year-old with Down syndrome had fewer seizures after treating sleep apnea and adjusting medications.

## Contribution

This case highlights OSA as a seizure trigger in Down syndrome patients and the effectiveness of CPAP therapy.

## Key findings

- CPAP therapy reduced seizure frequency in a Down syndrome patient with OSA.
- Treating OSA and adjusting medications improved seizure control in a complex case.
- OSA is a significant factor in seizure management for individuals with Down syndrome.

## Abstract

In this case study, a 16-year-old male with Down syndrome (DS) faced persistent nocturnal seizures despite anti-seizure medications and treatment for concurrent hypothyroidism. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common issue in patients with Down syndrome, was revealed as a trigger of the seizures. The implementation of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy along with medication adjustments led to a significant decrease in seizure frequency, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to seizure management in patients with complex medical conditions.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** Down syndrome (MONDO:0008608), obstructive sleep apnea (MONDO:0007147), hypothyroidism (MONDO:0005420)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Hypothyroidism (MESH:D007037), OSA (MESH:D020181), DS (MESH:D004314), Seizure (MESH:D012640)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

4 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC10910299/full.md

## References

15 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC10910299/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC10910299