Professional paper

https://doi.org/10.26800/LV-147-1-2-1

Guidelines for ketogenic dietary treatment in infants and children with refractory epilepsy

IGOR PRPIĆ orcid.org/0000-0001-9000-7684 ; Referentni centar Ministarstva zdravstva za epilepsije i konvulzivne bolesti razvojne dobi *
JELENA RADIĆ NIŠEVIĆ
IVANA KOLIĆ
JELENA BEGIĆ
VEDRANA BIBIĆ

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

The use of ketogenic dietary therapy has become a potent therapeutic approach for managing drugresistant epilepsy, particularly in infants and children. The binding of evidence-based practices and clinical expertise has culminated in the development of international comprehensive guidelines, aiming to standardize the implementation and optimize the efficacy of ketogenic dietary treatment, based on which the national guidelines were created. These guidelines provide a structured protocol for healthcare professionals involved in the administration of ketogenic dietary treatment. In addition, they emphasize the importance of individualized treatment plans, careful patient assessment, and ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy. Central aspect highlighted in these guidelines is the thorough evaluation of patient eligibility, considering factors such as age, epilepsy syndrome, seizure frequency, comorbidities, and patient/family preferences. The initiation and maintenance
of ketogenic dietary treatment require close collaboration among multidisciplinary team, including child neurologists, dietitians, parents/caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to navigate potential challenges and optimize outcomes of ketogenic dietary treatment. Key components of the guidelines encompass protocols for preevaluation, initiation, and monitoring. The focus is on achieving and maintaining appropriate ketosis while ensuring nutritional adequacy and minimizing adverse effects. Regular monitoring of biochemical parameters, growth parameters, and seizure control is imperative for fine-tuning the ketogenic diet and mitigating adverse events effectively. Furthermore, the guidelines advocate for continuous education and support for patients and caregivers to enhance adherence and promote long-term success. In essence, these guidelines serve as an important resource for healthcare professionals, offering evidence-based recommendations and practical insights for managing the challenges of ketogenic dietary therapy, ultimately striving to optimize outcomes and improve the quality of life for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy.

Keywords

DRUG RESISTANT EPILEPSY – diet therapy, genetics; DIET, KETOGENIC – adverse effects, methods; TRIGLYCERIDES; DIET, HIGH-PROTEIN LOW-CARBOHYDRATE; GLYCEMIC INDEX; ENERGY INTAKE; DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS; TEATMENT OUTCOME; PRACTICE GUIDELINES AS TOPIC; CROATIA

Hrčak ID:

328777

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/328777

Publication date:

10.3.2025.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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