Dravet Syndrome
What is Dravet syndrome?
In 1978, Charlotte Dravet first described Dravet syndrome, and it was found to have a genetic basis in 2001. Dravet syndrome is a rare genetic dysfunction of the brain (epileptic encephalopathy). It begins in the first year of life in an otherwise healthy infant, and it is lifelong. Let’s simplify it with common synonyms or search words:- Severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI)
- Polymorphic epilepsy in infancy (PMEI)
- Epilepsy with polymorphic seizures
- DS
How common is Dravet syndrome?
It’s not fully known how many people are affected—estimated 1 in 15,700 to 1 in 40,000 live births. It affects males and females in equal proportions. Significant risk factors for a Dravet syndrome diagnosis are:- Seizures lasting more than 10 minutes
- Seizures occurring on one side of the body
- Seizures triggered by a warm-water bath in children under 12 months old
What are the signs and symptoms of Dravet syndrome?
Dravet syndrome has been characterized by prolonged febrile and non-febrile seizures within the first year of a child’s life. This disease progresses to other seizure types:- Myoclonic and partial seizures
- Psychomotor delay
- Ataxia
What treatment options are available for Dravet syndrome?
Diagnosing the child early is critical to proper treatment and achieving the best outcome. A child may need a multidisciplinary team to address the many ways Dravet syndrome can affect the family. Seizure treatment is aimed at finding the best combination of medicines to treat chronic seizures and prevent and treat potential seizure emergencies. Getting the best seizure control possible is the goal. This could also help improve the child’s developmental abilities and decrease mortality risk.Where can I find more information about Dravet syndrome?
Dravet Syndrome Articles
The Dravet Syndrome Foundation of Spain’s Annual Meeting 2026
The Dravet Syndrome Foundation of Spain hosted its 2026 Annual Family Meeting on March 20 at the Rafaela Ybarra School in Madrid, bringing together roughly 100
Choosing Joy: Erika’s Journey of Raising a Child with Dravet Syndrome, a Rare Form of Epilepsy
In the whirlwind of early motherhood, days blur together in a haze of feedings, diaper changes, and sleepless nights. You’re learning your baby’s every sound,
Patient Worthy Congratulates the Dravet Syndrome Foundation of Spain
Madrid, December 3, 2025 – The research laboratory of the Dravet Syndrome Foundation was one of the initiatives awarded 3,000 Euros in the 11th edition
Spanish Man Plans to Swim from Europe to Africa to Raise Awareness of Dravet Syndrome
Editor’s Note: This article was translated into English from Spanish; there may be inconsistencies or minor errors. Sports and the fight against Dravet syndrome will
An interview with Johnny’s Mom: A Dravet Syndrome Family Life
Danielle’s baby boy had a long and terrifying seizure on the 4th of July six years ago. The family was at her mother’s home. Both
Camp Small Steps Helps Dravet Syndrome Families Find Community and Connection
Editor’s Note: Patient Worthy is honored to bring you this article originally authored by Shannon Cloud, Patient Advocacy Director of the Dravet Syndrome Foundation. A
The Dravet Syndrome Foundation Calls for More Research and Social Awareness on World Epilepsy Day
Contributed by Dravet Foundation Spain The group values the progress made but urges the continued implementation of the effectiveness of the drugs Epilepsy unexpectedly and
Rare Community Profiles: Breaking Barriers: How Nicole and Emma Offer Hope Amidst a Dravet Syndrome Diagnosis
Rare Community Profiles is a Patient Worthy article series of long-form interviews featuring various stakeholders in the rare disease community, such as patients, their
