To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ketogenic diet in patients of refractory epilepsy

Absract

Abstract

OBJECTIVE :

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ketogenic diet in patients of refractory epilepsy.

STUDY DESIGN:

Prospective interventional study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY:

The study was conducted at Pediatric Neurology Department. The University of Child Health and The Children Hospital Lahore from Jan 2020 - Dec 2021. Study was conducted after approval of synopsis.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

All children with refractory epilepsy of age 6 months to 18 years and both genders were included in the study while Children of refractory epilepsy with associated hepatic, renal or cardiac issues, patients of hyperlipidemia and those who refused to take ketogenic diet after explaining the benefits and side effects of the diet were excluded from the study

Results: Out of 50 patients, there was male predominance (64%). In 48 % patients the seizure burden reduced to 90%from the baseline. 72 % presented with good compliance.  60% patients presented with no complications. Among the rest, constipation was the most common complication. Good seizure control is associated with good compliance and good education status of parents.

Conclusion:

Ketogenic diet is a good modality for the treatment of refractory epilepsy and its effectiveness is associated with good compliance resulting in better control of seizure burden.

Key words: ketogenic diet, refractory epilepsy