Adults with a history of possible Dravet syndrome: an illustration of the importance of analysis of the SCN1A gene

Most patients with Dravet syndrome have de novo mutations in the neuronal voltage-gated sodium channel type 1 (SCN1A) gene. We report on two unrelated fathers with severe childhood epilepsy compatible with a possible diagnosis of Dravet syndrome, who both have a child with Dravet syndrome. Analysis of the SCN1A gene revealed a pathogenic mutation in both children. One father exhibited somatic mosaicism for the mutation detected in his son. A relatively favorable cognitive outcome in patients with Dravet syndrome patients may be explained by somatic mosaicism for the SCN1A mutation in brain tissue. A mild form of Dravet syndrome in adult patients is associated with a high recurrence risk and possibly a more severe epilepsy phenotype in their offspring.