Low levels of maximal aerobic power impair the profile of mood state in individuals with temporal lobe epilepsy.

Objective: To investigate the correlation between cardiorespiratory fitness and mood state in individuals with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Method: Individuals with TLE (n = 20) and healthy control subjects (C, n = 20) were evaluated. Self-rating questionnaires were used to assess mood (POMS) and habitual physical activity (BAECKE). Cardiorespiratory fitness was evaluated by a maximal incremental test.

Results: People with TLE presented lower cardiorespiratory fitness; higher levels of mood disorders; and lower levels of vigor when compared to control health subjects. A significant negative correlation was observed between the levels of tension-anxiety and maximal aerobic power.

Conclusion: Low levels of cardiorespiratory fitness may modify the health status of individuals with TLE and it may be considered a risk factor for the development of mood disorders.