Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Cognitive Functions in Idiopathic Epileptic Children

Abstract

E pilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological conditions and it knows no age, racial, social class, geographic, or national boundaries. The extraordinary burden of epilepsy on quality of life (QOL) is well known, as is the very high economic burden associated with the disease. Epilepsy is strongly associated with social stigma and reduced quality of life for patients and their caregivers and, thus, may have a substantial socio-economic impact. There is a growing body of literature to support a role for vitamin D in brain function and development, including quantification of vitamin D receptors in the brain, neuro protection by vitamin D in vitro, and down regulation of vitamin D receptors in hippocampus and cerebellum. Clinical studies have suggested a potential beneficial role of vitamin D for cognitive function as it is presumed to be active in areas of the brain involved in planning, processing, and formation of new memories.