Diagnostic Journey for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex-Interviews From a Clinical Trial.

Abstract

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic condition characterized by both medical and neuropsychiatric diagnoses that emerge across the lifespan. As part of a clinical trial, caregivers of children with TSC were interviewed about their experiences navigating medical, school, and social services. Semistructured interviews (N = 20) with caregivers of children with TSC (27-60 months) were conducted upon exit from the study. The interviews covered topics related to experiences following diagnosis, interactions with providers, sources of information, and access to services and treatment. The main themes from the caregiver interviews included: (1) sources of information about TSC and treatment; (2) access to high-quality and expert medical care; (3) perception and diagnosis of TAND; (4) impact of epilepsy on daily life, intervention, and schooling; and (5) access to therapeutic services, compatible providers, and evaluations. Additionally, parents provided recommendations for other caregivers navigating their child's early treatment following diagnosis. These results reflect the importance of current research priorities for TSC stakeholders, including implementation of existing clinical guidelines, improved access to TSC expertise, and coordinated and integrated health care.