Clinical characteristics associated with postoperative seizure control in adult low-grade gliomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

Epilepsy is the most common symptom in patients with supratentorial low-grade gliomas (LGGs), which adversely affects the patient's quality of life. Poor seizure control with anti-epileptic therapy is an indication for surgery in these patients. Recent studies have sought to identify predictors of postoperative seizure control after surgical resection of LGG; gross total resection was shown to be a significant predictor in this respect. However, the prognostic value of other factors is not clear.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 studies with a combined study population of 2641 patients with LGG, in order to identify potential factors associated with favorable postoperative seizure control. Data were extracted on age and sex of patient, tumor location, tumor histology, type of seizure, seizure duration, extent of resection, and imaging characteristics.

Results

Patients ≥45 years of age achieved better postoperative seizure control (risk ratio [RR], 0.89; 95% CI, 0.81–0.99). Focal seizures were associated with poor seizure control (RR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.18–1.49) compared with generalized seizures (RR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.68–0.87). Prolonged history of seizures (≥1 y) had a negative impact on postoperative seizure control (RR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.10–1.34). Gross total resection was superior to subtotal resection with respect to postoperative seizure control (RR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.63–0.73).

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta-analysis identified predictors of postoperative seizure control in patients undergoing surgical resection of LGGs. Our results provide a reference for clinical treatment of LGG-related epilepsy.