Ketogenic diet: A therapeutic alternative in pediatric refractory epilepsies

Abstract

Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of ketogenic diet (KD) on refractory epilepsies, especially in children. In this category of patients, a strong collaboration between the healthcare providers and the full engagement of parents is required. The regimen is significantly effective for different types of epilepsy that are resistant to medical treatment. It can also be used as a first-line treatment, given its well tolerance. Treatment has been rolled out for children but research into its use in adults is promising. There is no international or national protocol, the implementation of this diet follows a rigor being specific to every ketogenic center. The understanding of the underlying mechanisms is not well elucidated, it would make it possible to optimize the clinical use of the ketogenic diet, but also to develop novel antiepileptic treatments. This article aims to review the different variants of KD and their prescription terms in children with intractable epilepsy.