Ketogenic diet therapy for epilepsy: Clinical pearls

Author(s)

Pinto, Anna Lecticia ; Montenegro, Maria Augusta ; Valente, Kette ; Sampaio, Leticia Brito

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Epilepsy & Behavior; v. 161, p. 9-pg., 2024-10-28.

Abstract

This manuscript provides practical insights, tips, and lessons particularly valuable for early-career healthcare professionals new to using ketogenic diet therapy (KDT) in clinical practice. The review aims to be accessible, emphasizing actionable knowledge that can be directly applied in a clinical setting. The KDT for epilepsy includes not only the classic KDT but also the modified Atkins diet, the medium-chain triglyceride ketogenic diet, and the low glycemic index treatment. This highly effective non-pharmacological treatment can be rapidly implemented for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Identifying suitable candidates and conferring criteria for selecting patients who are likely to benefit ('good responder') from the ketogenic diet is critical for earlier intervention minimizing the burden of seizures and long-term polytherapy. On the other hand, this article outlines conditions where the ketogenic diet may not be appropriate, such as in patients with specific metabolic disorders, representing contraindications or cautions where there are concerns about adherence. Finally, the use of KDT in special settings (e.g., ICU) and how to deal with the most common side effects and abnormal laboratory results are provided based on an updated review and the experience from three level three epilepsy centers. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/26960-7 - Evaluation of the efficacy of behavioral psychotherapy compared to pharmacotherapy in the treatment of depressive disorder in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy with Hippocampal Sclerosis
• Grantee: Ellen Marise Lima
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 21/14144-0 - Impact of high polyunsaturated fatty acid ketogenic diet on epileptic seizure control and cognition: correlation with histological and functional aspects
• Grantee: Kette Dualibi Ramos Valente
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 19/07056-8 - Ketogenic diet enriched with omega-3 fatty acids in Epilepsy: an approach focused on brain morphofunctional characteristics, cognition, clinical response, and adverse effects associated with neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation
• Grantee: Giovanna Fernandes Ricciarelli
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)