Malnutrition and epilepsy: a two-way relationship.

Background & Aims: 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.