Study of Genetic Heart Disease Markers in Adults with Epilepsy and Related Risks for Sudden Death

What this Trial Is About

Epilepsy affects over 3 million people in the US and carries a significant risk of sudden unexpected death SUDEP, especially in those under 40 years old. This study aims to find out if patients with epilepsy who have the highest risk of SUDEP have genetic heart and brain disorders that might cause dangerous heart rhythms and sudden death. Researchers are looking closely at genetic causes related to heart rhythm and sudden death in these patients and their close blood relatives. Participants include people with epilepsy who have a high SUDEP risk score or a family history of epilepsy, seizures, cardiac arrest, sudden death, drowning, syncope, or heart rhythm disorders. The study also invites blood relatives of these patients to provide blood or saliva samples for genetic testing. There are two groups patients with high SUDEP risk and those with low SUDEP risk. During the study, researchers will use advanced genetic sequencing to check for cardiac genetic mutations in patients at high risk of sudden death over 3 to 5 years. Participants will provide genetic samples and medical history information. The study will monitor genetic markers linked to heart and brain disorders to better understand risks associated with epilepsy. The total participation time varies by individual needs and testing schedules.

Genetic Markers of Cardiovascular Disease in Epilepsy