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Hypovitaminosis D and risk factors in pediatric epilepsy children

Napakjira Likasitthananon1, Charcrin Nabangchang1, Thitiwan Simasathien1

  • 1Neurology Division, Department of Pediatrics, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.

BMC Pediatrics
|October 3, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric epilepsy patients in Thailand have a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, with puberty and certain anti-seizure medications being key risk factors. Early detection and supplementation are crucial for preventing long-term bone health issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Neurology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Anti-seizure medication (ASM) use is a known risk factor for vitamin D deficiency in epilepsy patients.
  • While adult vitamin D deficiency in epilepsy is documented, pediatric cases are less studied.
  • This study focuses on identifying hypovitaminosis D risk factors in Thai pediatric epilepsy patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pediatric epilepsy patients in Thailand.
  • To identify specific risk factors associated with hypovitaminosis D in this population.
  • To inform clinical practice regarding vitamin D monitoring and supplementation in children with epilepsy.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional retrospective cohort study of 138 pediatric epilepsy patients was conducted.
  • Data on demographics, seizure types, puberty, physical activity, and ASM use were analyzed.
  • Exclusion criteria included abnormal liver/renal function and vitamin D supplementation; serum 25(OH)D levels were measured.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 23.2% and insufficiency was 47.8% among the 138 subjects.
  • Multivariate analysis identified puberty status (OR 5.43) and non-enzyme-inhibiting ASM therapy (OR 3.58) as significant risk factors for hypovitaminosis D.
  • The mean serum 25(OH)D level was 26.56 ng/ml.

Conclusions:

  • A high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D exists in Thai pediatric epilepsy patients, even in a tropical region.
  • Clinicians should monitor vitamin D levels in pediatric epilepsy patients, especially during puberty and when using non-enzyme-inhibiting ASMs.
  • Prompt vitamin D assessment and supplementation can mitigate risks of fractures and osteoporosis.
Abstract

Keywords:
Anti-seizure medicationsHypovitaminosis DPediatric epilepsy; vitamin D deficiency

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