Korean J Occup Environ Med.  2012 Sep;24(3):287-293.

A Case of Epilepsy and Assessments of Fitness for Work

• Kim KH
• Choi M
• Kim SE
• Jang TW
• Kim HR
• Koo JW

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Epilepsy affects an individual's ability to work as well as their daily activities. Patients with epilepsy have difficulties in finding and maintaining jobs, and they may not have opportunities to perform adequately. Therefore, evaluation of work-fitness is important for patients with epilepsy. In this report, the authors reviewed a case of epilepsy and discussed aspects of the case for evaluation of work-fitness.
CASE REPORT
A 43-year-old man with epilepsy visited the hospital for evaluation of work-fitness. His job consisted of forklift driving and crane operation using a remote control. As a seizure attack could threaten worker's safety, we recommended a job change. The employer refused to approve a job change due to the company's circumstances, so we recommended several conditions, including continuous medication, use of protective equipment, restriction of night-shift work, restriction of strenuous exercise, and profound sleep. An epilepsy event occurred during the follow-up period, prompting his company to evaluate his work. There were frequent movements of forklift operations and workers in the workplace, so we recommended restriction of forklift driving and a job change if possible. As a result, the employer changed his job and we recommended "capable of performing work without any conditions".
CONCLUSION
For evaluation of work-fitness in patients with epilepsy, adequate job analysis, assessment of patient's medical conditions, and interviews of coworker and employers should be conducted. It is also important to let the employer make the best decision in terms of the patient's health and coworker's safety.

Keyword

Epilepsy; Work capacity evaluation

MeSH Terms

Adult
Epilepsy
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Linear Energy Transfer
Seizures
Work Capacity Evaluation

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