The impact of ketogenic diet on drug-resistant epilepsy in children: A comprehensive review and meta-analysis

The ketogenic diet (KD), characterized by high-fat and low-carbohydrate intake, is currently gaining widespread popularity as a treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). In addition to the traditional ketogenic diet, several variants have been introduced to enhance compliance and flexibility, such as the modified Atkins diet (MAD) and the low glycemic index diet (LGID). These adaptations aim to provide patients with more manageable and sustainable options while harnessing the potential therapeutic benefits of DRE. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the KD in pediatric patients who exhibit DRE. In this study, we conducted a thorough review of existing literature by searching Cochrane, Embase, Medline, and PubMed. Our approach involved predefined criteria for data extraction and the assessment of study quality. Eleven RCTs with 788 participants were included in this study. The pooled effect estimates revealed a significant association between dietary interventions and seizure frequency reduction of > 50% (OR 6.68, 96% CI 3.52, 12.67) and > 90% (OR 4.37, 95% CI 2.04, 9.37). Dietary interventions also increased the odds of achieving seizure freedom (OR 4.13, 95% CI 1.61, 10.60). The common adverse effects included constipation (39.07%) and vomiting (10%). In conclusion, dietary interventions, notably the KD, hold promise for pediatric DRE, reducing seizures and achieving freedom. These non-pharmacological options improve the quality of life of non-responsive and non-surgical patients. The KD has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach. Further research is needed to address the limitations and investigate their long-term effects.

Modified Atkins diet for drug-resistant epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness and side-effect profile of the modified Atkins diet (MAD) compared to the usual diet (UD) in reducing seizure frequency among patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE).

METHODS

In February 2023, we conducted an extensive search in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing MAD to UD in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) on standard anti-seizure medication (ASM). We used random-effects meta-analyses and the Risk of Bias 2 tool to evaluate treatment effects and assess the quality of the included RCTs, respectively.

RESULTS

Six studies were evaluated in the meta-analysis, including 575 patients, of whom 288 (50.1 %) were randomized to the MAD. Average follow-up period was 12 weeks. MAD plus standard drug therapy was associated with a higher rate of 50 % or greater reduction in seizure frequency compared to UD plus drug therapy (RR 6.28; 95 % CI 3.52-10.50; p<0.001), both in children (RR 6.28; 95 % CI 3.43-11.49; p<0.001) and adults with DRE (RR 6.14; 95 % CI 1.15-32.66; p = 0.033). MAD was also associated with a higher seizure freedom rate compared to UD (RR 5.94; 95 % CI 1.93-18.31; p = 0.002). Five studies reported adverse events with MAD; constipation was reported in 17 % of patients (95 % CI 5-44 %), lethargy in 11 % (95 % CI 4-25 %), and anorexia in 12 % (95 % CI 8-19 %). Due to limited information about the ASM regimens, we were unable to further analyze the interaction between MAD and ASM.

SIGNIFICANCE

This meta-analysis, comprising 575 patients from 6 RCTs, revealed that MAD led to higher rates of seizure freedom and underscored its role in seizure frequency reduction by 50 % or more in both adults and children, with no significant adverse events concerns.

A case-control evaluation of Spasm control and Tolerability of the Modified Atkins diet versus classic ketogenic diet in Chinese Children with infantile epileptic spasms syndrome

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to compare the efficacy, tolerability and safety of the modified Atkins diet (MAD) and the classic ketogenic diet (KD) in Chinese children with infantile epileptic spasms syndrome.

METHODS

We retrospectively recruited and analyzed 56 children with infantile epileptic spasms syndrome started on the MAD (n = 21) and classic KD (n = 35) at our institution from June 2016 to July 2022.

RESULTS

The MAD group had exhibited comparable rates of spasm reduction (>50%) as the classic KD group at the time point of 3 months (66.7% for MAD, 75% for KD; p = 0.510), 6 months (75% for MAD, 82.6% for KD; p = 0.694), and 12 months (84.6% for MAD, 90.9% for KD; p = 1.000). The probability of patients remaining on the MAD was higher (p = 0.048) than those consuming the classic KD. By analyzing discontinuation reasons, we found that the MAD patients had a lower rate of poor compliance than the classic KD patients (p = 0.014). Response to the diet at 1 month and fewer anti-seizure medicines (ASMs) had tried before KD initiation were possible factors in regard to likelihood of spasm-free response to the diet therapy at 3 months (p = 0.001 and p = 0.014, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of spasm control was similar in the MAD, with better tolerability and higher compliance compared to the classic KD. Therefore, MAD could be the primary treatment for children in China with- infantile epileptic spasms syndrome. Additionally, an earlier beginning of the diet treatment may have significant advantages.

Prospective study of the modified Atkins diet in adult drug-resistant epilepsy: Effectiveness, tolerability, and adherence

INTRODUCTION

Drug-resistant epilepsy presents high worldwide prevalence and is difficult to control despite the wide variety of available antiepileptic drugs (AED). The modified Atkins diet (MAD) is an additional treatment alternative. Several studies have addressed the use of the ketogenic diet and MAD in children with drug-resistant epilepsy, but insufficient research has been conducted into adults with the same condition.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of, and adherence to, the MAD in adults with drug-resistant epilepsy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a 6-month pre-post prospective study at a reference hospital. Patients were prescribed the MAD with limited carbohydrate intake and unlimited fat intake. We conducted clinical and electroencephalographic follow-up according to the relevant guidelines, and assessed adverse effects changes in laboratory findings, and adherence.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients with drug-resistant epilepsy were included in the study. Patients' mean age was 30 years, mean disease progression time was 22 years, and all patients had focal or multifocal epilepsy. Thirty-four percent of patients presented > 50% decreases in overall seizure frequency (P =  .001); seizure control was greater in the first month and subsequently declined. These patients presented weight loss (RR: 7.2; 95% CI, 1.3-39.5; P = .02), good to fair adherence only in the first and third months (RR: 9.4; 95% CI, 0.9-93.6; P =  .04 and RR: 0.4; 95% CI, 0.30-0.69; P =  .02, respectively). Tolerability data showed that the MAD is safe: adverse effects were minor and short-lived in most cases, with the exception of mild to moderate hyperlipidaemia in one-third of patients. The adherence rate was 50% at the end of the study.

CONCLUSIONS

In adults with drug-resistant focal epilepsy, the MAD showed adequate tolerability and moderate but decreasing effectiveness and adherence, probably due to a preference for a carbohydrate-based diet.

Quantitative Three-Dimensional Gait Evaluation in Patients With Glucose Transporter 1 Deficiency Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Of the patients with glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1-DS), 90% have a pathologic gait. Ataxic-spastic and ataxic gaits are seen in 35% of patients each. A ketogenic diet and modified Atkins diet (MAD) are effective therapy in GLUT1-DS in terms of both the seizures and movement disorder. A three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA) system can be used to evaluate gait quantitatively using spatiotemporal data and gait kinematics. We performed 3DGA in three ambulatory patients with GLUT1-DS to evaluate the characteristics of their gait pathology, and we compared the gait variables before and after enhancing the MAD in one patient.

METHODS

After examination by pediatric neurologists and pediatric orthopedic surgeons, 3DGA was performed. We assessed walking speed, step length, step width, gait variability, Gait Deviation Index (GDI), Gait Profile Score (GPS), and Gait Variable Score (GVS).

RESULTS

All three patients had a low GDI and high GPS, comprehensive indices of gait pathology. The unstable gait pattern featured a wide step width in one patient and high gait variability in two patients. In the sagittal plane, the patients had increased GVSs in the knee and ankle joints due to excessive knee flexion or extension and excessive ankle plantarflexion. In the horizontal plane, the patients had increased GVSs in the pelvis, hips, and foot due to excessive rotation during walking. After enhancing the MAD, GDI, GPS, and GVSs improved.

CONCLUSIONS

3DGA has potential for quantifying the characteristics of gait pathology and its improvement with dietary therapy in patients with GLUT1-DS.

The Efficacy and Safety of Ketogenic Diets in Drug-Resistant Epilepsy in Children and Adolescents: a Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Drug-resistant epilepsy represents around one-quarter of epilepsies worldwide. Although ketogenic diets (KD) have been used for refractory epilepsy since 1921, the past 15 years have witnessed an explosion of KD use in the management of epilepsy. We aimed to review evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the efficacy and safety of KD in drug-resistant epilepsy in children and adolescents.

RECENT FINDINGS

A literature search was performed in the Pubmed, Cohrane, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar databases. Predefined criteria were implemented regarding data extraction and study quality. Data were extracted from 14 RCTs in 1114 children and adolescents aged from 6 months to 18 years. Primary outcome was seizure reduction after the intervention. In 6 out of the 14 studies, there was a statistical significant seizure reduction by > 50% in the KD-treated group compared with the control group over a follow-up of 3-4 months. Secondary outcomes were adverse events, seizure severity, quality of life, and behavior. Gastrointestinal symptoms were the most frequent adverse events. Serious adverse events were rare. We conclude that the KD is an effective treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy in children and adolescents. Accordingly, RCTs investigating long-term impact, cognitive and behavioral effects, and cost-effectiveness are much anticipated.

Qualitative exploration of feasibility and acceptability of the modified Atkins diet therapy for children with drug resistant epilepsy in Kenya

PURPOSE

Approximately one-third of children with epilepsy have clinical syndromes characterized by drug resistance. Modified Atkins dietary therapy (MADT) can reduce seizures and improve health outcomes for these children. This intervention is yet to be consistently offered as standard of care in sub-Saharan Africa.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess feasibility and acceptability of MADT for children with drug-resistant epilepsy and identify enabling strategies for implementation and adherence to the MADT.

METHODS

This qualitative inquiry utilized in-depth interviews with purposively selected caregivers and adolescent patients having used MADT for drug-resistant epilepsy. A qualified team consisting of a social scientist and an interviewer carried out the interviews with consenting participants. Thematic analysis was done independent of the clinicians.

RESULTS

This study enrolled 17 participants including 14 caregivers of children aged 1-17 years, and three adolescents. Caregivers were predominantly trained professionals living in urban areas who had attended the epilepsy clinic for at least one year. Duration of continuous MADT use ranged from two weeks to two years. Among participants who indicated that they could afford to provide the MADT, it was less costly to provide for younger children and for those living in rural areas. At the time of the study, majority of the caregivers had ceased administration of the MADT, more than half of whom reported barriers including cost of food, child refusal of foods, and inconsistent dietician support. Social support was a key enabler to successful implementation and continuation of the diet. Majority of the participants considered MADT to be an effective and acceptable intervention for management of epilepsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Among participants in this focused Kenyan group, implementation of MADT was found to be feasible particularly for younger children living in rural areas. Majority of participants evaluated MADT to be an effective and acceptable intervention for management of epilepsy. Cultural factors did not influence feasibility or acceptability of MADT in this study.

Ketogenic diet for mitochondrial disease: a systematic review on efficacy and safety

Background

No curative therapy for mitochondrial disease (MD) exists, prioritizing supportive treatment for symptom relief. In animal and cell models ketones decrease oxidative stress, increase antioxidants and scavenge free radicals, putting ketogenic diets (KDs) on the list of management options for MD. Furthermore, KDs are well-known, safe and effective treatments for epilepsy, a frequent symptom of MD. This systematic review evaluates efficacy and safety of KD for MD.

Methods

We searched Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase and Cinahl (November 2020) with search terms linked to MD and KD. From the identified records, we excluded studies on Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex deficiency. From these eligible reports, cases without a genetically confirmed diagnosis and cases without sufficient data on KD and clinical course were excluded. The remaining studies were included in the qualitative analysis.

Results

Only 20 cases (14 pediatric) from the 694 papers identified met the inclusion criteria (one controlled trial (n = 5), 15 case reports). KD led to seizure control in 7 out of 8 cases and improved muscular symptoms in 3 of 10 individuals. In 4 of 20 cases KD reversed the clinical phenotype (e.g. cardiomyopathy, movement disorder). In 5 adults with mitochondrial DNA deletion(s) related myopathy rhabdomyolysis led to cessation of KD. Three individuals with POLG mutations died while being on KD, however, their survival was not different compared to individuals with POLG mutations without KD.

Conclusion

Data on efficacy and safety of KD for MD is too scarce for general recommendations. KD should be considered in individuals with MD and therapy refractory epilepsy, while KD is contraindicated in mitochondrial DNA deletion(s) related myopathy. When considering KD for MD the high rate of adverse effects should be taken into account, but also spectacular improvements in individual cases. KD is a highly individual management option in this fragile patient group and requires an experienced team. To increase knowledge on this—individually—promising management option more (prospective) studies using adequate outcome measures are crucial.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-021-01927-w.

The efficacy comparison of classic ketogenic diet and modified Atkins diet in children with refractory epilepsy: a clinical trial

Dietary therapy has an important role in the therapeutic process in children suffering refractory epilepsy. There are two kinds of dietary therapy which are the most common in children with refractory epilepsy: The classic ketogenic diet (KD) and the modified Atkins diet (MAD). The purpose of the present study was to compare the efficacy, tolerability, and compliance of these two dietary therapies in the children who have refractory epilepsy during 6 months of treatment. From March 2017 to November 2018, 45 children aged 2-15 years who had refractory epilepsy were randomly allocated in KD or MAD group. The intervention period was 6 months in both groups. The frequencies of seizures were determined from parental reports and were compared between the groups. The patients with upper than 50% reduction in seizure frequency were deemed as responders to the diets. Twenty-four patients were assigned to the KD and 11 patients to the MAD. Overall, 45.8% of children treated with the KD and 45.5% of children treated with MAD had over than 50% response to the diet therapies. The difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.437). The MAD was more advantageous regarding better tolerability and fewer side effects. There is not much difference regarding the efficacy between the MAD and classic KD. The MAD with fewer side effects may be more suitable as the first line of dietary therapy in children with refractory epilepsy.

Non-Pharmacological and Non-Surgical Treatment of Refractory Childhood Epilepsy

Nearly 20-40% of patients with epilepsy are likely to have drug resistant epilepsy (DRE). Add-on antiseizure drugs do not produce optimal seizure control in these patients. Among the non-pharmacological options, only resective surgery is curative. However, a large majority of patients are not candidates for resective epilepsy surgery. For these children with DRE, non-pharmacological non-surgery "palliative" options should be considered early than late. These include dietary therapies and neuromodulation. While there are numerous clinical trials supporting the efficacy of dietary therapies (viz ketogenic diet, modified Atkins diet and low glycemic index therapy), the evidence for neuromodulation is still evolving. Neuromodulation techniques include vagal nerve stimulation, deep brain stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Each of the options, whether diet or neuromodulation, has its own advantages, disadvantages and adverse events profile. These have to be considered and discussed with the family before deciding the modality being chosen.

Optimizing data collection in dietary therapy clinics for epilepsy: A recommendation for standardized data collection forms

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to 1) examine medical records from one medium-sized dietary clinic as an example of data being collected clinically, 2) identify data limitations, and then 3) create standardized data collection forms with the long-term goals of improving clinical care and facilitating multicenter data analysis.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted at the Dietary Therapies for Epilepsy Clinic at Children's National Medical Center (CNMC) in Washington, D.C. Patients who initiated dietary therapy between 2015 and 2018 were assessed. Categorical variables were examined via Chi Square or Fisher's Exact tests and continuous variables were assessed via an independent t-test or Mann-Whitney U test, depending on normality.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients underwent dietary therapy initiation during this time period, but only 26 had follow-up visit data. Of these patients, 54% reported non-seizure symptom improvement(s), and only 16 had quantitative seizure frequency information available, with 63% being clinical responders. No significant associations were observed between patient or diet characteristics and seizure or non-seizure improvement. Some variables, such as seizure duration, seizure severity, beta-hydroxybutyrate, and dietary compliance were not typically included in the records and therefore could not be evaluated statistically. Variations in seizure type(s), etiology, and clinical diagnoses/syndromes also made it unfeasible to evaluate differences in improvement based on these variables. Standardized data collection forms were created to address these limitations and are included as appendices.

SIGNIFICANCE

The results suggest limitations with the clinical data currently being collected. Medium-sized clinics may not see enough patients to study specific epilepsy populations. Standardized patient forms could target these issues, thereby improving clinical care and expanding research opportunities. Future research can test these forms for clinical use and as a collection tool for larger scale research across clinics.

Effects of modified Atkins diet on thyroid function in adult patients with pharmacoresistant epilepsy

INTRODUCTION

The use of ketogenic diet as a supplement to antiseizure medication (ASM) in refractory epilepsy has increased the past decades. This high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet mimics the metabolic state of fasting and is generally well-tolerated. However, the long-term adverse effects of the diet are unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the modified Atkins diet (MAD), a variant of the ketogenic diet, may have an impact on thyroid hormone levels.

METHODS

We assessed thyroid function by measuring thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH), fT4, T3, fT3, and rT3 before diet start (baseline) and after 12 weeks on the diet in 53 adult patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Further, we examined the correlation between the changes in thyroid function during dietary treatment and type of (i) change in seizure frequency, (ii) drugs in use, and (iii) degree of ketosis.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks on the diet, we found a significant reduction in T3 and fT3 values (13.4% and 10.6%, respectively) and a significant increase in fT4 values (12.1%) compared with baseline. In addition, there was an insignificant increase in TSH and rT3. These changes were similar in women and men, and there was no correlation to drugs in use (enzyme-inducing vs. nonenzyme-inducing drugs), changes in seizure frequency, or level of ketosis.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that dietary treatment for epilepsy may bring about a modest fall in thyroid hormone levels. This could be relevant for those patients with low thyroid hormones and those treated with ASMs known to lower thyroid hormone levels. A cumulative effect of ASMs, low basal thyroid hormone levels, and ketogenic diet may therefore be of clinical importance in the case of thyroid hormones when treating patients with MAD.

Glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome associated with autoantibodies to glutamate receptors

BACKGROUND

The clinical spectrum of glucose transporter type 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS) has broadened, with increasing recognition of a milder phenotype. Antibodies targeting the subunits of glutamate receptors (GluRs), including GluN1, GluN2B, and GluD2, have been detected in various neurological disorders. Anti-GluD2 antibodies in particular may be associated with cerebellar symptoms.

CASE REPORT

A 3-year-5-month-old boy with normal development exhibited myoclonus refractory to antiepileptic drugs from one year ago. He developed tremor and ataxia. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) revealed fasting-state glucose 50 mg/dl (CSF/blood glucose ratio of 0.50). Single photon emission computed tomography with ¹²³I-iodoamphetamine revealed hypoperfusion in the cerebellum. At age 4 years and 5 months, treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) relieved his symptoms and improved the cerebellar hypoperfusion. However, his symptoms reappeared at age 5 years and 1 month. Treatment with IVMP was repeated, resulting in transient disappearance of symptoms. At age 6 years and 9 months, he was diagnosed with GLUT1DS by genetic analysis, and treatment with modified Atkins diet was started with efficacy. Levels of anti-GluN1, -GluN2B, and -GluD2 antibodies in the serum and CSF were measured 4 times. All antibodies in the CSF were elevated over 2 standard deviations above controls, and the levels fluctuated along with the severity of his symptoms. The level of anti-GluD2 antibodies in CSF declined to the normal range only after starting the modified Atkins diet.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with IVMP transiently improved this patient's symptoms. Levels of anti-GluR antibodies may be associated with symptom severity.

Ketogenic diet for the treatment of pediatric epilepsy: review and meta-analysis

The ketogenic diet (KD), containing high levels of fat and low levels of carbohydrates, has been used to treat refractory epilepsy since the 1920s. In the past few decades, there has been more interest in less restrictive KDs such as the modified Atkins diet (MAD).

PURPOSE

Our aim was to review all evidence regarding the efficacy and tolerability of the KD and MAD from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in children and adolescents with refractory epilepsy.

METHODS

We reviewed the current literature using Cochrane, EMBASE, and MEDLINE (using PubMed). We implemented predefined criteria regarding dataextraction and study quality.

RESULTS

We identified five RCTs that generated seven publications and recruited 472 children and adolescents with refractory epilepsy (≤ 18 years). The primary outcome (seizure frequency reduction (SFR) ≥ 50%) was attained in 35-56.1% of the participants in the intervention group, compared with 6-18.2% in the control group. Our meta-analysis underlined the significant efficacy of the KD compared with the control group: RR = 5.1 (95% CI 3.18-8.21, p < 0.001). Additionally, only two studies mentioned possible biomarkers to objectively evaluate the efficacy. Secondary outcomes, such as seizure severity and quality of life, were studied in three trials, leading to indecisive generalization of these findings. Gastro-intestinal adverse effects were the most prevalent, and no severe adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSION

Despite the heterogeneity between all studies, the beneficial results underline that dietary interventions should be considered for children and adolescents with refractory epilepsy who are not eligible for epilepsy surgery. Future studies should be multi-center and long-term, and evaluate potential biomarkers and adverse effects.

Modified Atkins Diet with slow reduction of carbohydrate

Typically, the amount of daily carbohydrate in the Modified Atkins diet (MAD) is restricted to 10–20 g from the beginning of the therapy. It is possible to gradually reduce the daily carbohydrate amount to this target to increase acceptability of the diet. We report the use of the MAD with slow carbohydrate reduction in a patient with Glucose Transporter 1 Deficiency, including results of neuropsychological assessments. Seizures were controlled at 45 g of carbohydrates daily. This case report illustrates that a liberalized form of MAD with slow reduction of carbohydrate may be a therapeutic option in some children with epilepsy. It is possible that other children with epilepsy could achieve seizure control at higher carbohydrate level than current MAD recommendations.

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Some patients may find it difficult to lower the carbohydrate content abruptly in Modified Atkins Diet (MAD). This could affect compliance and ease of following the diet.

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A liberalized form of MAD with slow reduction of carbohydrate may be a therapeutic option in children with epilepsy.

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Some children could achieve good seizure control at higher carbohydrate level than current MAD recommendations

Feasibility of a modified Atkins diet in glioma patients during radiation and its effect on radiation sensitization

Background

Gliomas are the most dreaded primary brain tumour because of their dismal cure rates. Ketogenic-type diets (kds) are high-fat, low-protein, and low-carbohydrate diets; the modified Atkins diet (mad) is a less-stringent version of a kd that still generates serum ketones in patients. The purpose of the present study was to retrospectively examine the feasibility of attaining ketosis and the safety of the mad in patients undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatment for glioma. The rate of pseudoprogression (psp) after treatment was also assessed as a marker of radiation sensitization. To our knowledge, this dataset is the largest published relating to patients with glioma undergoing kd during radiation and chemotherapy.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 29 patients with grades ii-iv astrocytoma following the mad during standard radiation and chemotherapy. Feasibility of attaining ketosis was assessed though levels of beta hydroxybutyrate in blood. Pre- and post-radiation magnetic resonance images were evaluated for psp by a neuroradiologist blinded to patient data.

Results

In the 29 patients who started the mad during radiation, ketosis was achieved in all 29 (100%). No serious adverse events occurred secondary to the mad. Of those 29 patients, 19 had glioblastoma multiforme. Of the latter 19 patients, 11 (58%) showed psp after mad and radiation and temozolomide therapy.

Conclusions

A modified Atkins diet is feasible and safe for glioma patients during radiation and chemotherapy treatment. The mad and resulting ketosis could play a role as a radiation sensitizer.

Short- and long-term seizure-free outcomes of dietary treatment in infants according to etiology

PURPOSE

It is important to determine whether specific etiology is more effective to dietary treatment so that the diet can be started earlier for infants. We evaluated etiology-specific, seizure-free outcomes of dietary treatment in infants <1 year of age.

METHODS

We conducted a 10-year, retrospective, longitudinal observational study of 115 infants treated with ketogenic diet (KD) or modified Atkins diet (MAD).

RESULTS

Most patients (70%) received classical KD; 30% received MAD. During follow-up, 90%, 73%, and 61% of the patients remained on the diet at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Seizure-free outcomes were reported in 50%, 44%, and 50% of the patients at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Long-term seizure-free outcomes over 12 months were reported in 43 (74%) of 58 infants who were seizure-free at 3 months. Etiologies were mostly symptomatic (structural brain abnormalities, genetic, or metabolic) in 83 (72%) of 115 patients. According to underlying etiology, long-term seizure-free outcomes were observed in 14 (33%) of 42 patients with structural brain abnormalities, 7 (33%) of 21 with genetic etiologies, 7 (35%) of 20 with metabolic etiologies, and 15 (47%) of 32 with unknown etiologies. There were no etiology-based differences with respect to long-term seizure-free outcomes (P = 0.63).

CONCLUSION

The high rate of long-term seizure-free outcomes can be predicted based on the seizure freedom at 3 months regardless of etiology. Early dietary treatment is beneficial, even in infants <1 year of age with specific symptomatic etiologies such as genetic, structural brain abnormalities, and metabolic etiology.

The Ketogenic and Modified Atkins Diet Therapy for Children With Refractory Epilepsy of Genetic Etiology

BACKGROUND

The ketogenic diet is an accepted treatment modality in refractory childhood epilepsy. In this study, we analyzed the efficacy and tolerability of the ketogenic and modified Atkins diets in children with refractory epilepsy of genetic etiology and studied the effect of the diet on seizure frequency.

METHODS

The records of children with a genetic etiology for refractory epilepsy treated with ketogenic and modified Atkins diet between September 2005 and July 2016 were reviewed. We documented age of seizure and diet onset, seizure characteristics, and specific genetic etiology. The proportion of children remaining on the diet and responder rates (greater than 50% seizure reduction) were noted at one, three, six, 12, and 24 months after diet initiation. Tolerability and safety profile were also recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine children with a genetic etiology (63% females, median age at diet onset 2.2 years) were initiated on the diet at our center. Fifty-three (90%) were started on a traditional ketogenic diet, whereas six started a modified Atkins diet. The adverse events at the initiation of diet were vomiting (24%), hypoglycemia (15%), and refusal to feed (11%). Three children stopped the diet before discharge because of poor compliance, severe reflux, and ketoacidosis (n = 1 each). The proportion of children remaining on the diet at one, three, six, 12, and 24 months was 95%, 86%, 69%, 64%, and 47%. The responder rates were 63%, 61%, 54%, 53%, and 41% at one, three, six, 12, and 24 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The ketogenic diet is an effective treatment modality in children with refractory epilepsy of genetic etiology.

Do certain subpopulations of adults with drug-resistant epilepsy respond better to modified ketogenic diet treatments? Evaluation based on prior resective surgery, type of epilepsy, imaging abnormalities, and vagal nerve stimulation

OBJECTIVE

Adults with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) are among the most challenging to treat. This study assessed whether specific subpopulations of adult patients with refractory epilepsy responded differently to modified ketogenic diet (MKD) therapy.

METHODS

Changes in seizure frequency, severity, and quality of life (QOL) were retrospectively analyzed based on pre-MKD surgical history, type of epilepsy, imaging findings, and vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) history among adults, ≥17 years of age, with DRE, receiving MKD therapy for three months. Additionally, particular attention was made to medication and VNS adjustments.

RESULTS

Responder rates in seizure frequency, severity, and QOL reported among those with prior surgery were 56%, 75%, and 94%, respectively. Among those with focal epilepsy: 57%, 76%, and 76% had improvements in seizure frequency, seizure severity, and QOL, respectively whereas 83% improvement was seen for all three measures in those with generalized epilepsy. Among those with abnormal imaging: just over 50% reported improvements on all measures. For those with VNS, 53%, 63%, and 95% had improvements in seizure frequency, seizure severity, and QOL, respectively. No statistical differences in seizure frequency, severity, or QOL were noted between groups based on prediet surgical history, seizure type, imaging abnormalities, or VNS history. Compared with expected improvement from medication adjustment alone, significant improvement was seen for all groups; notably, the Z-test for proportions for the surgery group, when compared with placebo responder rates at 20%, was 3.6, p < 0.001.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified ketogenic diet therapies are effective in improving seizure frequency, severity, and QOL and may offer the best chance for improvement among those whose seizures have persisted despite surgical intervention and VNS therapy. All types of epilepsy respond to MKDs, and possibly those with generalized epilepsy may respond better.

Modified ketogenic diets in adults with refractory epilepsy: Efficacious improvements in seizure frequency, seizure severity, and quality of life

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the efficacy of a modified ketogenic diet (MKD) on seizure frequency, severity, and quality of life (QOL), as well as potential complications of MKD therapy among adults with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE).

METHODS

Changes in seizure frequency, severity, QOL, and side effects were retrospectively examined among adults, ≥17 years of age, with DRE (≥2 antiepileptic drugs [AEDs]), after 3 months of MKD therapy. Attention was paid to medication or vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) changes as well to evaluate potential confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 60% (n = 33) of the 55 individuals reported ≥50% seizure frequency improvement, 42 (76%) reported improvement in seizure severity, and 48 (87%) reported improvement in QOL. More patients following a modified ketogenic diet - 15 g net carbohydrate daily (MKD-15) (95%) compared with a MKD-50 (69%) reported improvement in QOL (p = 0.02). Weight among the entire sample declined from 77.5 (20) kg to 73.9 (19.0) kg (p < 0.0001), and total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol:high density lipoprotein (TC:HDL) increased significantly (p = 0.03, p = 0.04, and p = 0.02, respectively). Free carnitine values were available for a select number of patients, 26 (47%) at baseline, and 7 (13%) at follow-up, of which 8 (31%) at baseline, and 2 (29%) at follow-up had carnitine deficiency (<25 nmol/mL). Constipation was noted in 5 patients (9%), and no kidney stones were reported during the study period. There were no statistical differences in number or dose changes for AED or VNS during the study period.

SIGNIFICANCE

Modified ketogenic diet therapies reduce seizure frequency and severity and improve QOL among adults with DRE with few side effects outside of weight loss, a desired outcome among many adults with DRE. More restrictive MKDs may offer improved seizure severity and QOL. Modified ketogenic diet therapy increases LDL cholesterol, which may be cardioprotective if related to an increase in LDL particle size with high saturated fat intake; however, more research is needed examining LDL particle size changes among those receiving MKD therapy.

Ketogenic Diets for Adult Neurological Disorders

The current review highlights the evidence supporting the use of ketogenic diet therapies in the management of a growing number of neurological disorders in adults. An overview of the scientific literature supporting posited mechanisms of therapeutic efficacy is presented including effects on neurotransmission, oxidative stress, and neuro-inflammation. The clinical evidence supporting ketogenic diet use in the management of adult epilepsy, malignant glioma, Alzheimer's disease, migraine headache, motor neuron disease, and other neurologic disorders is highlighted and reviewed. Lastly, common adverse effects of ketogenic therapy in adults, including gastrointestinal symptoms, weight loss, and transient dyslipidemia are discussed.

Ketogenic diet therapies in France: State of the use in 2018

Ketogenic diets (KDs) are well-established treatments for pharmacoresistant epilepsies and some metabolic disorders. The amount of publications including evidence-based trials has continuously increased in the last 10 years. We evaluated the use of KDs in France using 2 surveys from more than ten years ago (2005 and 2008).

METHODS

We conducted a new survey based on 10 questions to evaluate the evolution of the practice since 2008 and the thoughts of French pediatric neurologists on the barriers as well as possible ways to support the use of KDs.

RESULTS

All centers increased their use of KDs over time. There are now 5 out of 25 centers that are prescribing the modified Atkins diet. French pediatric neurologists reported the acceptability and the everyday life burden due to KDs as the most important barriers.

CONCLUSION

The use of the diet in France seems to follow the increase of knowledge in this field.

Questionnaire survey on the current status of ketogenic diet therapy in patients with glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS) in Japan

OBJECTIVES

We conducted a questionnaire survey on the efficacy and side effects of ketogenic diet (KD) therapy in patients with glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS) as well as issues associated with long-term KD therapy from the viewpoint of patients' families.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The subjects were 34 patients whose ages at the time of the survey ranged between 2 and 50 years (median, 11 years). The ages at the diagnosis ranged between 3 months and 48 years and 5 months (median, 4 years and 10 months), and KD therapy was started within 5 months in all patients.

RESULTS

The types of KD therapies used were modified Atkins diet (MAD) in 18 patients (53%), MCT (medium chain triglyceride)-KD in 9 (26%), classic KD in 5 (15%), LGIT (low-glycemic index treatment) in 1 (3%), and unspecified diet in 1 (3%). Epileptic seizures improved by more than 90% in 17 patients, by 50-89% in 9, by less than 50% in 3, and an unknown percentage in 5. Neurological symptoms other than the epileptic seizures improved markedly, moderately, and mildly in 14, 5, and 7 patients, respectively, and did not improve in 2. The side effects of KD therapy were seen in 9 patients and it was subsequently discontinued in one.

CONCLUSIONS

The families of patients showed a high level of satisfaction with the efficacy of KD therapy for the neurological symptoms. However, in order to continue KD therapy for a long period of time, its tolerability needs to be improved.

Impact of the modified Atkins diet on cardiovascular health in adults with epilepsy

AIM

The current study investigated biochemical and vascular markers of cardiovascular health in adult patients with epilepsy treated with long-term (greater than 1year) ketogenic diet therapy compared with controls.

METHOD

Anthropometric measures, serum fasting lipid panel, apolipoproteins A-1 and B, lipoprotein sub-fractions as well as common carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), and plaque presence were assessed in 20 adult patients with epilepsy on a modified Atkins diet (MAD) for >1year started as an adult compared with 21 adult patients with epilepsy naïve to diet therapy.

RESULTS

Patients treated with MAD had significantly lower weight, body mass index, waist and hip circumference, percent body fat, and serum triglyceride levels when compared with control patients. In contrast, they had significantly higher serum levels of small low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) particles and were significantly more likely to have LDL pattern B in which small LDL particles predominate when compared with controls. However, there was no significant difference in cIMT or plaque presence between groups.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide clinical evidence demonstrating the cardiovascular safety of a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet used in adults with epilepsy for at least 12months. It also highlights potential markers of cardiovascular risk - small dense LDL particles - that should be closely monitored in adults treated with diet therapy long-term.

Short-term and long-term efficacy of classical ketogenic diet and modified Atkins diet in children and adolescents with epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Classical ketogenic diet (KD) and modified Atkins diet (MAD) are two types of KD commonly used for the treatment of intractable epilepsy throughout the world. Studies have shown the efficacy of these diets. However, no systematic review and meta-analysis study has to date compared the efficacy of KD and MAD in a time trend. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to compare the short-term and long-term efficacy of classical KD and MAD in children and adolescents with epilepsy and to determine the efficacy of classical KD and MAD at multiple time points and in a time trend.

METHODS

Main electronic literature databases, including MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE, were searched in November 2016. Rate difference and random effects model were used to compare the efficacy of the classical KD and MAD.

RESULTS

Overall, 70 studies were eligible for inclusion. Meta-analysis revealed a non-significant trend toward a higher efficacy of MAD at month-3 and month-6 (P > 0.05). In the classical KD group, the percentage of responder patients achieving ≥50% seizure reduction was 62, 60, 52, 42, and 46% at month-1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 and for the MAD group was 55, 47, 42, and 29% at month-1, 3, 6, and 12, respectively.

DISCUSSION

Classical KD does not differ substantially from MAD in ≥50% and ≥90% reduction of seizure frequency at month-3 and month-6. Overall, the number of patients achieving seizure freedom increases over time.

The role for ketogenic diets in epilepsy and status epilepticus in adults

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Ketogenic diets offer adjunctive therapy for chronic epilepsy and refractory status epilepticus.

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Studies support feasibility and efficacy of the classic ketogenic diet and its variants in adults.

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Potential complications and side effects of diet therapy are often preventable and manageable.

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Strategies are needed to improve diet adherence.

Ketogenic diet (KD) therapies are high fat, low carbohydrate diets designed to mimic a fasting state. Although studies demonstrate KD’s success in reducing seizures stretching back nearly a century, the last 25 years have seen a resurgence in diet therapy for the management of drug-resistant epilepsy in children as well as adults. With ≥50% seizure reduction efficacy rates in adults of 22–55% for the classic KD and 12–67% for the modified Atkins diet, diet therapy may be in many instances comparable to a trial of an additional anti-epileptic medication and potentially with fewer side effects and other health benefits. Moreover, ketogenic diets offer promising new adjunctive strategies for the treatment of acute status epilepticus in the intensive care setting. Here, we review the efficacy and utility of ketogenic diets for the management of chronic epilepsy and refractory status epilepticus in adults and offer practical guidelines for diet implementation and maintenance.

The efficacy of the modified Atkins diet in North Sea Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy: an observational prospective open-label study

Background

North Sea Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy is a rare and severe disorder caused by mutations in the GOSR2 gene. It is clinically characterized by progressive myoclonus, seizures, early-onset ataxia and areflexia. As in other progressive myoclonus epilepsies, the efficacy of antiepileptic drugs is disappointingly limited in North Sea Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy. The ketogenic diet and the less restrictive modified Atkins diet have been proven to be effective in other drug-resistant epilepsy syndromes, including those with myoclonic seizures. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of the modified Atkins diet in patients with North Sea Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy.

Results

Four North Sea Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy patients (aged 7–20 years) participated in an observational, prospective, open-label study on the efficacy of the modified Atkins diet. Several clinical parameters were assessed at baseline and again after participants had been on the diet for 3 months. The primary outcome measure was health-related quality of life, with seizure frequency and blinded rated myoclonus severity as secondary outcome measures.

Ketosis was achieved within 2 weeks and all patients completed the 3 months on the modified Atkins diet. The diet was well tolerated by all four patients. Health-related quality of life improved considerably in one patient and showed sustained improvement during long-term follow-up, despite the progressive nature of the disorder. Health-related quality of life remained broadly unchanged in the other three patients and they did not continue the diet. Seizure frequency remained stable and blinded rating of their myoclonus showed improvement, albeit modest, in all patients.

Conclusions

This observational, prospective study shows that some North Sea Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy patients may benefit from the modified Atkins diet with sustained health-related quality of life improvement. Not all our patients continued on the diet, but nonetheless we show that the modified Atkins diet might be considered as a possible treatment in this devastating disorder.

The changing face of dietary therapy for epilepsy

Ketogenic diet is an established and effective non-pharmacologic treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy. Ketogenic diet represents the treatment of choice for GLUT-1 deficiency syndrome and pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency. Infantile spasms, Dravet syndrome and myoclonic-astatic epilepsy are epilepsy syndromes for which ketogenic diet should be considered early in the therapeutic pathway. Recently, clinical indications for ketogenic diet have been increasing, as there is emerging evidence regarding safety and effectiveness. Specifically, ketogenic diet response has been investigated in refractory status epilepticus and encephalopathy with status epilepticus during sleep. New targets in neuropharmacology, such as mitochondrial permeability transition, are being studied and might lead to using it effectively in other neurological diseases. But, inefficient connectivity and impaired ketogenic diet proposal limit ideal availability of this therapeutic option. Ketogenic diet in Italy is not yet considered as standard of care, not even as a therapeutic option for many child neurologists and epileptologists.

CONCLUSIONS

The aim of this review is to revisit ketogenic diet effectiveness and safety in order to highlight its importance in drug-resistant epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Ketogenic diet efficacy is now described in large case series, with adequate diet compliance and side effects control. • Ketogenic diet is far from being attempted as a first line therapy. Its availability varies worldwide. What is New: • New pharmacological targets such as mitochondrial permeability transition and new epileptic syndromes and etiologies responding to the diet such as refractory status epilepticus are being pointed out. • Ketogenic diet can function at its best when used as a tailor-made therapy. Fine tuning is crucial.

Outcome of ketogenic diets in GLUT1 deficiency syndrome in Japan: A nationwide survey

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the outcome of ketogenic diets (KDs) in patients with glucose transport type 1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT1DS) in Japan.

METHODS

A nationwide survey for GLUT1DS was conducted by sending questionnaires to board-certified pediatric neurologists nationwide to obtain clinical and laboratory data.

RESULTS

Among 39 patients whose diagnosis was confirmed molecularly or by the 3-O-methylglucose uptake assay, 31 were treated with KDs for longer than 1month. Seventeen patients (55%) were on the modified Atkins diet, 11 (35%) were on the classic KD, and 3 were on the medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) diet. The median values and ranges of serum β-hydroxybutyrate levels in patients on the modified Atkins diet, classic KD and MCT diet were 2.5mM (0.75-4.1), 1.7mM (0.23-3.5) and 2.6mM (1.5-3.0), respectively. The KDs were effective on seizures (80%), aggravation after fasting (80%) and ataxia (79%). Thus, ataxia was as responsive as seizures. Two patients on the classic KD with a ketogenic ratio as low as 1:1 showed improvement in neurological symptoms. The development or intelligence quotient measured using the same psychological scales before and after the KDs in 9 patients did not show a significant improvement; the median quotients before and after the diets were 40 (12-91) and 46 (12-67).

CONCLUSION

The KDs were most effective on seizures, transient aggravation after fasting and ataxia. The efficacy on intellectual development was equivocal. The modified Atkins diet was more commonly used for GLUT1DS in this study, and its ketogenicity was equivalent to the classic KD.

Ketogenic Diet for Children with Epilepsy: A Practical Meal Plan in a Hospital

A ketogenic diet (KD) is a dietary approach to treat intractable epilepsy. The KD begins with hospitalization and the child and their parents can adapt to the KD for 1-2 weeks. Recently, various type of dietary intervention such as the modified Atkins diet (MAD) and the low glycemic index treatment (LGIT) have been performed. Since 2010, we carried out the KD, MAD, and LGIT for total of 802 patients; 489 patients (61%) for the KD, 147 patients (18.3%) with the MAD, and 166 patients (20.7%) for the LGIT. In this report, application of these dietary practices in Severance Hospital is shared.

A prospective study of the modified Atkins diet for adults with idiopathic generalized epilepsy

For children with pharmacoresistant epilepsy, the ketogenic diet is an established treatment option worldwide. However, for adults, this treatment is less frequently offered, and its efficacy less well-documented. The aim of this study was to examine efficacy and tolerability of such a diet as an adjuvant therapy to antiepileptic drugs for adult patients with pharmacoresistant generalized epilepsy. Thirteen patients (12 women) aged 16-57 years were included prospectively. They were treated with a modified Atkins diet for 12 weeks. Nine of the 13 participants had juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME), two had childhood absence epilepsy, one had Jeavons syndrome, and one had generalized epilepsy of unknown type. Six participants, all with JME, completed the 12-week study period. Among these six, four had >50% seizure reduction. Their seizure severity, using the revised Liverpool Seizure Severity Scale, was reduced by 1, 5, 57.5, and 70 points, respectively (scale: 1-100 points). In three of these four responders, quality of life, assessed by QOLIE-89, increased more than 20 points (scale: 0-100 points). Mean reduction of body weight after 12 weeks on diet was 6.5 (range: 4.3-8.1) kg. Lack of motivation, poor compliance, and seizure aggravation were the main reasons for premature termination of the diet. Apart from one patient who developed gallstones when ending the treatment after 10 months, no adverse effects were noted. In conclusion, using a modified Atkins diet for 12 weeks led to a clinically relevant reduction of seizure frequency in four of thirteen adult patients with pharmacoresistant generalized epilepsy. All responders were diagnosed with JME. In three of the four, the benefits of diet were so considerable that they chose to continue the treatment.

Dietary therapy is the best option for refractory nonsurgical epilepsy

Ketogenic diet therapies for epilepsy have been described since the fifth century and published in scientific literature since the early 1900s. Since that time, the diet's popularity has waxed and waned as newer drugs and other treatments have been introduced. However, in recent years, dietary therapy for epilepsy has been increasingly accepted by physicians and desired by patients as an alternative to new drugs and neurostimulation. The introduction of less restrictive versions of the classic ketogenic diet, such as the modified Atkins diet (MAD), have led to increased numbers of adult patients with refractory epilepsy who are initiating dietary treatment. Approximately half of adults and children who start a ketogenic diet have a >50% seizure reduction, which is impressive given that these patients typically have medically refractory epilepsy. We believe that ketogenic dietary treatment is the best option for children and adults with refractory nonsurgical epilepsy due to its efficacy, rapid seizure reduction, synergistic effects with other antiseizure treatments, known and treatable side effects, potential to treat comorbid medical conditions, and worldwide availability.

Pharmacoresistant Epilepsy: A Current Update on Non-Conventional Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Interventions

Uncontrolled seizure or epilepsy is intricately related with an increase risk of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. The failure to achieve seizure control with the first or second drug trial of an anticonvulsant medication given at the appropriate daily dosage is termed as pharmacoresistance, despite the fact that these drugs possess different modes of action. It is one of the devastating neurological disorders act as major culprit of mortality in developed as well as developing countries with towering prevalence. Indeed, the presence of several anti-epileptic drug including carbamazepine, phenytoin, valproate, gabapentin etc. But no promising therapeutic remedies available to manage pharmacoresistance in the present clinical scenario. Hence, utility of alternative strategies in management of resistance epilepsy is increased which further possible by continuing developing of promising therapeutic interventions to manage this insidious condition adequately. Strategies include add on therapy with adenosine, verapamil etc or ketogenic diet, vagus nerve stimulation, focal cooling or standard drugs in combinations have shown some promising results. In this review we will shed light on the current pharmacological and non pharmacological mediator with their potential pleiotropic action on pharmacoresistant epilepsy.

Exploring the relationship between preferences for high fat foods and efficacy of the ketogenic and modified Atkins diets among children with seizure disorders

PURPOSE

Previous research has indicated that children with seizures may prefer high fat foods - a preference compatible with ketogenic and modified Atkins dietary therapies. The purpose of this prospective study was to examine the relationship between fat preference and efficacy of therapeutic diets in treating intractable seizures among a pediatric population.

METHODS

Preference for high fat foods was directly assessed in a sample of 30 children prior to commencing either the ketogenic or modified Atkins diet. Seizure control was assessed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months following diet initiation. Using an intent-to-treat analysis, correlations between fat preference and diet efficacy were examined at each follow-up and across the follow-up period.

RESULTS

At individual follow-ups, correlations between fat preference and diet efficacy varied in terms of both strength and significance; however, modest, positive correlations with fat preference were significant when examining high levels of efficacy (100% seizure reduction, ≥90% seizure reduction) across a 1-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide preliminary evidence that fat preference, when directly assessed, may be a useful predictor of treatment efficacy for the ketogenic and modified Atkins diets; however, further research is necessary.