What is Dravet Syndrome?

Dravet syndrome, also known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy (SMEI), is a rare and catastrophic form of intractable epilepsy that begins in infancy. Initial seizures are most often prolonged events and in the second year of life other seizure types begin to emerge. Development remains on track initially, with plateaus and a progressive decline typically beginning in the second year of life. Individuals with Dravet syndrome face a higher incidence of SUDEP (sudden unexplained death in epilepsy) and have associated conditions, which also need to be properly treated and managed. These conditions include:

• behavioral and developmental delays


• movement and balance issues


• orthopedic conditions


• delayed language and speech issues


• growth and nutrition issues


• sleeping difficulties


• chronic infections


• sensory integration disorders


• disruptions of the autonomic nervous system (which regulates things such as body temperature and sweating)