Vitamin D deficiency among children with epilepsy in South Queensland

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Long-term use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is associated with altered vitamin D metabolism.
• Vitamin D deficiency is a concern in pediatric populations, particularly those with chronic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in children with epilepsy on long-term AEDs in South Queensland, Australia.
• To identify risk factors associated with vitamin D deficiency in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving children with epilepsy attending a tertiary neurology clinic.
• Blood samples were collected during winter 2011 to measure 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels.
• Statistical analysis, including multiple logistic regression, was used to identify risk factors.

Main Results:

• Vitamin D deficiency (25-hydroxy vitamin D <20 ng/mL) was found in 22% of 111 children.
• An additional 41% exhibited vitamin D insufficiency (21–29 ng/mL).
• Children on more than two AEDs or with genetic epilepsy etiologies had a higher likelihood of vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusions:

• A significant proportion of children with epilepsy on long-term AEDs in Queensland are at risk of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency.
• Despite subtropical living, these children require vigilant vitamin D monitoring and potential supplementation.
• Optimizing vitamin D status is essential for the comprehensive care of pediatric epilepsy patients on long-term AEDs.