Study to Identify Smell Compounds That Predict Epileptic Seizures in Adults with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to identify volatile organic compounds VOCs in people with epilepsy that could predict epileptic seizures before they occur. Epileptic seizures cause significant psychological stress and reduce quality of life. Current seizure detection devices mainly detect seizures after they happen and do not predict them. The study also considers psychogenic non-epileptic seizures PNES that can be mistaken for epileptic seizures but require different management. The goal is to develop reliable, non-invasive prediction tools based on the unique odors emitted by people before a seizure. Participants will undergo continuous and systematic VOC sampling at specific times throughout the day and during seizures. Samples will be collected using compresses applied to the forehead, palms, and back of the neck, with participants asked to exhale into a bag if possible. Sampling occurs every 3 hours at two sites HFAR and Institut La TEPPE. This includes special sampling during seizures lasting from the start to five minutes after the event. During the study, participants will have video-EEG monitoring for at least 48 hours. Researchers will analyze collected VOC samples to identify odors linked to seizures, taking into account seizure types and individual differences. The main outcome is the identification of VOC biopredictors of epileptic seizures on the first day of sampling. Participants medical and social security status will be confirmed, and consent will be obtained. The study monitors participants until the end of the sampling and follow-up periods.

Identification of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) as Biopredictors of Epileptic Seizures