Spanish pediatric neurologists stress early diagnosis for rare Dravet syndrome

The Spanish Society of Pediatric Neurology (SENEP) highlighted that early, specialized treatment is essential to alter the natural progression of Dravet syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder affecting roughly one in 15,000 newborns. Neuropediatrician Julián Lara emphasized that recognizing early warning signs, suspecting the disease during initial seizures, and performing prompt genetic testing enable specific therapies and preventive measures, improving developmental outcomes and quality of life for affected children.

SENEP also called for the creation of a specific training area in neuropediatrics to ensure experts can support families throughout diagnosis, ongoing epilepsy management, and the myriad comorbidities—including cognitive, language, motor, behavioral, and sleep disturbances—that often emerge. Advances in genetics and precision medicine now offer hope not only to reduce seizures but also to enhance neurodevelopment and preserve autonomy into adulthood.