Can we predict a favourable response to Ketogenic Diet Therapies for drug-resistant epilepsy?

Abstract

Ketogenic Dietary Therapies (KDT) are an effective treatment option for some people with drug-resistant epilepsy. They are, however, resource-intensive and can cause adverse side effects. Predictors of response would improve the selection process and perhaps further our understanding of the mechanisms behind dietary treatments for epilepsy. We conducted a literature review to identify factors that may influence response to KDT. We found no strong evidence that there are any specific factors that affect response. Gender and intellectual status do not seem to affect response; evidence is inconsistent for all other factors. Experimental studies may point us in the right direction for future work.

Keywords: Dietary treatments; Outcomes; Review.