Comparative case-control study of homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folic acid levels in patients with epilepsy

Neurologia. 2017 Sep;32(7):440-445. doi: 10.1016/j.nrl.2016.02.013. Epub 2016 Apr 16.
[Article in English, Spanish]

Abstract

Introduction: Increased blood homocysteine levels are a known cardiovascular risk factor. Epileptic patients on long-term treatment with antiepileptic drugs may present higher homocysteine levels and, consequently, a potential increase in cardiovascular risk.

Material and methods: We conducted an observational case-control study to compare plasma levels of homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12.

Results: Our study included a total of 88 subjects: 52 patients with epilepsy and 36 controls. Epileptic patients showed higher homocysteine levels (P=.084) and lower levels of folic acid (P<.05).

Conclusion: Homocysteine levels should be monitored in epileptic patients on long-term treatment with antiepileptic drugs. We suggest starting specific treatment in patients with high homocysteine levels.

Keywords: Antiepileptic drugs; Cardiovascular risk; Epilepsia; Epilepsy; Folic acid; Fármacos antiepilépticos; Hiperhomocisteinemia; Hyperhomocysteinaemia; Riesgo cardiovascular; Vitamin B(12); Vitamina B12; Ácido fólico.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Carbamazepine / therapeutic use
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Epilepsy* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Folic Acid / blood*
  • Homocysteine / blood*
  • Humans
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia
  • Male
  • Risk Factors
  • Vitamin B 12 / blood*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Homocysteine
  • Carbamazepine
  • Folic Acid
  • Vitamin B 12