A Prospective, Case-control Evaluation of Ketogenic Dietary Therapy for New-onset Childhood Absence Epilepsy
Johns Hopkins University
Summary
The ketogenic diet is a medical therapy for epilepsy that is used nearly predominantly for refractory epilepsy (after 2-3 drugs have been tried and failed). However, there is both published evidence for first-line use (infantile spasms, Glut1 deficiency syndrome) and also anecdotal experience (families choosing to change the child's (or the family' own) diet rather than use anticonvulsant medications). Childhood absence epilepsy (refractory) has been published as being responsive to ketogenic diet therapy by the investigators' group previously. This is a small, prospective, 3 month trial to assess if using a modified Atkins diet is a feasible and effective option for new-onset childhood absence epilepsy. The investigators will compare to a group of children in which the parents have declined and chose to start anticonvulsant medications.
Description
The ketogenic diet has been in continuous use since 1921 for children and adult with medically-refractory epilepsy. One of the major unanswered questions is whether it would be as effective for children with new-onset epilepsy. Although logically, this would be the case, it remains to be shown in clinical trials. Additionally, it is much easier to take a medication than to change dietary habits and there is doubt whether families would truly wish to try dietary therapy first (or stay on dietary therapy if not effective for a 6 month trial period). There is limited published evidence supportin…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 3–12 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Children ages 3-12 years at seizure onset with classic childhood absence epilepsy clinically. * Normal intellect or mild disability * EEG with confirmed 3/second spike-wave discharges, usually with hyperventilation * Daily reported absence seizures. * Generalized convulsions allowed Exclusion Criteria: * Previous treatment with any anticonvulsant drug * Previous use of a ketogenic dietary therapy for epilepsy or any other condition * Glut1 deficiency syndrome * Metabolic disorder known that would preclude dietary therapy * Dietary restrictions for which a high fat, low…
Interventions
- OtherModified Atkins Diet
Low carb (20g/day), high fat, moderate protein diet. Started as an outpatient in clinic.
- DrugAbsence epilepsy medications
At neurologist's discretion. \*OF NOTE\< THIS ARM IS COMPLETED
Location
- Johns Hopkins HospitalBaltimore, Maryland