Evaluation of memory in refractory temporal lobe epilepsy

Abstract Aim and Background: Evaluation of cognition is fundamental for every comprehensive epilepsy program. We sought to conduct this study to assess memory state of patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy before decision for epilepsy surgery. Method and Materials: In a case-control study, 20 patients with right temporal lobe epilepsy and 20 patients with left temporal lobe epilepsy were selected using convenience sampling in Kashani hospital, Iran and 20 normal person as a control group were randomly selected; the Wechsler Memory Scale was administered to them. The results were analyzed using multivariate analysis. Findings: In mental control, logical memory, digit span and visual memory subscales, significant differences were obtained between right-left temporal lobe epilepsy and control group (P < 0.001). However there was not a statistically difference between right lobe temporal epilepsy and left temporal lobe epilepsy in 7 subscales. Conclusions: Our findings indicated the ability of Wechsler Memory Scale to differentiate temporal lobe epilepsy. Keywords: Verbal memory, non-verbal memory, refractory temporal lobe epilepsy, Wechsler Memory Scale.