RecruitingPhase 3NCT04274179

Ketogenic Diet for New-Onset Absence Epilepsy

A Prospective, Case-control Evaluation of Ketogenic Dietary Therapy for New-onset Childhood Absence Epilepsy

Sponsor

Johns Hopkins University

Enrollment

40 participants

Start Date

Aug 10, 2020

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Ketogenic Dieting Epilepsy, Absence absence epilepsy

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.

Eligibility

Min Age: 3 YearsMax Age: 12 Years

Inclusion Criteria5

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 Criteria7

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 carbohydrate diet would be precluded.
Prior history of epilepsy (febrile seizures allowed)
Unwilling to consent to study procedures or return for visits