Abstracts

Rationale: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasing, particularly in individuals and families suffering from chronic medical conditions such as epilepsy. Personal spiritual beliefs and use of CAM may influence medical decision making such as choosing elective treatment modalities like epilepsy surgery. The current study was conducted in an effort to gain further understanding of the frequency and patterns of CAM use and the influence of religious beliefs in families with children with epilepsy.Methods: Parents and/or legal guardians of children (N = 225) admitted to a regional epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) were asked to complete a questionnaire pertaining to their spiritual beliefs and practices as well as their use of CAM. There was no identifying information on the questionnaire. This sample consisted largely of children with intractable epilepsy.Results: Of the 225 parents surveyed 13% were currently using some form of CAM for their child with epilepsy. 16% had used CAM in the past. 43% reported they would like to try some form of CAM with the most interest expressed in marijuana (23%), music therapy (20%), and massage (19%). The most frequently utilized forms of CAM were vitamins/supplements (6% currently using, 5% using in the past), massage (3% currently using, 5% using in the past), and aroma therapy (.1% currently using, 3% using in the past). 71% of the respondents indicated that their doctor or nurse did not inquire about CAM use, and 81% said they had not discussed CAM with their doctor or nurse. Concerning spiritual beliefs and practices, 90% of the respondents reported praying about their child’s condition. 15% of the respondents reported having a special ceremony or healing practice performed for their child.Conclusions: The results of this survey indicate frequent use of CAM by caregivers of children with medication-resistant epilepsy (21% of the current sample reports current or past use). Even more respondents expressed interest and willingness to try CAM. This may indicate dissatisfaction with established therapies due to suboptimal efficacy or perceived side effects of anti-seizure medications. The vast majority of the sample indicated that they had not discussed CAM with their health care provider. Additionally, health care providers had not inquired about CAM. This lack of communication is illustrative of a missed opportunity in building rapport and assessment of any potential adverse effect involving alternative therapies. Our patient and family cohort continue to rely heavily on religious faith and spirituality, with 90% reporting use of prayer specifically for their child with epilepsy. A deeper understanding of these issues may help in counseling, fostering trust, and guiding families through complex medical decision making involving various treatment modalities such as epilepsy surgery.