Zebra of the Week: Dravet syndrome

Dravet syndrome is an epilepsy syndrome that begins in infancy or early childhood and can include symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Most cases are caused by mutation in the SCN1A gene. Children initially show focal or generalized convulsive seizures that start before 15 months of age (often before age 1). Status epilepticus may occur frequently, particularly in the first 5 years of life. Other symptoms can begin throughout childhood including changes in appetite, balance, and a crouched gait.