Malnutrition and epilepsy: a two-way relationship.
OBJECTIVE
A link between malnutrition and epilepsy has been suspected for many years.


METHODS
Different aspects of the question were studied with a review of previous published data.


RESULTS
Several studies performed on animal models or humans highlight the possible adverse effects of malnutrition in the onset of seizures. Protein-energy, electrolyte, vitamin or trace element deficiencies may be involved. Conversely, several determinants of epilepsy could lead to malnutrition: food taboos and social exclusion in developing countries as well as some adverse effects of antiepileptic treatments.


CONCLUSIONS
Two different hypotheses exist as a vicious circle: malnutrition predisposing to epilepsy or epilepsy predisposing to malnutrition. A better understanding of these interactions is necessary. In the mean time, malnutrition has to be prevented and treated.
Crepin
Sabrina
S
Pharmacology and Toxicology Department-Pharmacovigilance Center, Limoges University Hospital, Limoges Cedex, France. sabrina.crepin@chu-limoges.fr
Godet
Bertrand
B
Chassain
Benoît
B
Preux
Pierre-Marie
PM
Desport
Jean-Claude
JC
D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015897:Comorbidity; D003906:Developing Countries; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D018977:Micronutrients / Q000172:deficiency*; D011502:Protein-Energy Malnutrition / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D011634:Public Health; D013609:Taboo / Q000523:psychology
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D018977:Micronutrients