Approximately 20–30% of patients are misdiagnosed with epilepsy. The gold standard ictal video EEG is not readily available in emergency settings. Seizure unpredictability poses daily challenges for people with epilepsy. Research has shown that dogs can predict oncoming seizures and differentiate between seizure and exercise samples, suggesting a possible 'odour' linked to seizures. This study investigates VOCs in breath and skin as potential diagnostic and predictive biomarkers for epileptic seizures. In collaboration with Prof. Matthew Walker and Dr. Eleonora Lugará at UCL.
Aims
Methods
Prospective cohort study at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (NHNN) telemetry unit and Chalfont Centre for Epilepsy. 100 participants in seizure cohorts (epileptic and non-epileptic) plus 50 age-matched healthy controls. Breath and skin VOC samples collected using standardised protocols around seizure events.
Recruitment to this trial takes place through participating NHS centres. If you think you may be eligible, please speak with your GP or hospital clinician who can refer you through the appropriate pathway.
Healthcare professional enquiries: Ilaria Belluomo