Cerebral Folate Deficiency is a condition that either occurs as a result of genetic variances and the environment or can result later in development as a result of other insults. It is a condition that blocks folate from entering the blood brain barrier. The excellent news is when identified, nutritional interventions can offer relief, and in some cases total and complete reversal.
Early onset of Cerebral Folate Deficiency (CFD) can occur often after immediate arrival into this world up until 18 months of age. I conducted a webinar on CFD that is recorded and can be reviewed here, if you are interested in symptoms to look for (seizures, infantile spasms are two examples).
Considered a young diagnosis, CFD for early onset has been discussed only in the past decade among a few pioneers. Yet, I recently came across evidence-based science that suggests that anti epileptic drugs may contribute to a secondary development of CFD.
Children with epilepsy are at risk of manifesting low serum folate and increased homocysteine concentrations, especially while receiving long-term and/or multiple antiepileptic drug treatments.
a recent study suggested that antiepileptic drugs might disturb the FOLR1-mediated 5-MTHF cellular uptake, thus playing a hypothetical role in the pathogenesis of secondary CFD syndrome.
In our sample, 56% of children with decreased 5-MTHF values manifested seizures and were treated with antiepileptic drugs at the time of the lumbar puncture.
This is critically important literature. The research indicates that individuals that use anti epileptic drugs may be at risk for lower levels of folate reaching the blood brain barrier. Folate deficiency, in itself, can cause repeat seizures. In other words, in some situations CFD may be the cause of the very first seizure and seizures to follow or it may be a result of medications to treat the seizures. The latter may be frustrating for a parent or individual to read but it’s important in ‘identifying healing opportunities’ and restoring health.
How to Identify?
- Iliad Neurosciences currently offers a lab kit that does not require a medical authorization. The cost of the kit is about $200. It is a blood draw and will require that the blood be drawn at a proper lab.
- Homocysteine levels can be offered through Labcorp and Qwest Diagnostics. Both labs are recognized nationally and can be ordered through your physician. I too offer this lab kit.
- Cerebral Spinal Fluid records. A lumbar puncture is an invasive procedure but many of you may have records. If so look at 5-MTHF, pterin and neopterin levels as well. If these are elevated there are concerns.
Exploring #1, specifically folate antibodies through Iliad Neurosciences can provide excellent insight into the presence of folate deficiency.
How to treat?
It is extremely important to address a deficiency with a practitioner that understands how to support. Years ago when my son was identified folate deficient, we were advised a trial and error process. We saw an increase in seizure activity when implementing B9 (folate). It is important that the proper form of folate is utilized as well as other nutrients.
Please note, I never encourage the stopping of any medication without the support of your primary care physician and/or neurologist. This information is strictly for educational purposes and written in my disclaimer at the bottom of my website.
Bringing much light,
Lynn
