Analyzing the Impact of Racial and Ethnic Background on Timeline of Receiving a Confirmatory Genetic Test in Children With Epilepsy: An Investigation Using Survival Analysis.

This study investigates the rate and timing of genetic diagnosis among children with epilepsy in Rhode Island, focusing on differences by self-identified racial, ethnic, and ancestral backgrounds—specifically White, Black, and Latine groups. Analyzing 231 patients evaluated at a tertiary care genetics clinic from 2015 to 2020, the study found an overall genetic diagnostic yield of 30%, consistent with other research. The ethnic composition of the clinic cohort closely matched the state’s pediatric population, but Latine patients experienced earlier seizure onset and completed genetic testing more rapidly than White and Black patients, with Black patients showing the longest delays. These findings highlight potential disparities in the management timeline of pediatric epilepsy genetic testing that warrant further investigation to promote equitable care.