Evaluation of Bone Metabolism in Children Using Antiseizure Drugs: A Single-Center Experience and Review of the Literature

Abstract The effect of anti-seizure drugs (ASDs) on bone mineral density (BMD) is a controversial topic. This study investigated the monotherapy and polytherapy separately. Patients with history epilepsy treated same ASDs for more than 6 months were included in study. Data regarding patient demographics, biochemical markers related to metabolism (calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D), BMD dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) collected compared. In total, 104 children using valproic acid (VPA), levetiracetam (LEV), carbamazepine (CBZ) alone or combination 22 healthy controls evaluated. ages (64 boys, 62 girls) ranged between 2 17, mean 9.50 ± 4.03 years. Z-scores did not differ among groups them group. lowest Z-score was VPA group but without statistical significance. Alkaline phosphatase levels significantly higher CBZ. Calcium differed (p = 0.001). CBZ LEV had calcium levels. However, phosphorus D measurements by used. Unfortunately, low evident all even controls. Physical activity, sun exposure, intake might be recommended ACDs additional risk factors monitoring via DXA should considered. Further studies large population are necessary judge which at reduce mineralization others.