Is Epilepsy a Complication of Type 1 Diabetes? A Series of Four Cases and Review of the Literature

Abstract Introduction: The association between type 1 diabetes (T1D) and epilepsy has been reported more frequently than in the general population. However, the exact pathophysiological link remains poorly understood. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of patients presenting with an association of T1D and epilepsy and to discuss the possible pathophysiological mechanisms in light of data from the literature. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study of four patients followed for type 1 diabetes and epilepsy. Results: All patients had poorly controlled type 1 diabetes, with frequent hypoglycemia in three cases. Epilepsy was generalized in three cases and focal in one case. Brain imaging and EEG were normal in all patients. Conclusion: The association between T1D and epilepsy appears to be multifactorial, involving autoimmune, metabolic, and possibly genetic mechanisms.