Ketogenic Therapy Effects on Electrical and Metabolic Abnormalities in Epilepsy

The basis of Ketogenic Therapy is an altered macronutrient intake. It is based on a ratio of
fat: protein+carbohydrate in which protein intake is adequate and carbohydrate is minimal. On
Ketogenic Therapy, the body metabolizes fat, producing ketones as an energy source for the
brain. Induction of ketosis has been shown to correlate with the reduction of seizures
observed with Ketogenic Therapy. A major challenge of Ketogenic Therapy in children is that
the compounds provided to stop seizure activity are the same compounds provided for growth
and development. The altered macronutrient ratio that is the basis of Ketogenic Therapy is
also a potential risk factor for dyslipidemia and may adversely affect growth. The
investigators will evaluate efficacy of Ketogenic Therapy by assessing seizures and
requirements for antiepileptic drugs. The investigators will evaluate adverse effects of
Ketogenic Therapy by assessing dyslipidemia and growth. The investigators will foster optimal
daily administration of therapy with structured training programs for caregivers.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Patients whose physician has prescribed the ketogenic diet

- Patients with lab tests consistent with the ability to metabolize a high fat and low
carbohydrate diet

- Patients that can be compliant with administration of the therapy and with record
keeping.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Patients with lab tests consistent with the inability to metabolize a high fat and low
carbohydrate diet

- Patients at risk of being non-compliant with administration of the therapy and with
record keeping