Investigating the causes and outcomes of childhood status epilepticus in Africa

Childhood Status Epilepticus and Epilepsy Determinants of Outcome (SEED) – EEG and MRI Supplement

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11003575

This study is looking at how to better understand and treat children in Nigeria who experience a serious condition called status epilepticus, with the goal of finding ways to help them recover and improve their long-term health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003575 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding childhood status epilepticus (SE), a serious neurological emergency that affects children, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The study aims to identify clinical and genomic predictors of mortality and neurodevelopmental issues associated with SE. By establishing a large cohort of children presenting with SE in pediatric emergency rooms in Kano, Nigeria, the research will analyze various factors, including the effectiveness of benzodiazepines in treating SE. The findings could lead to improved treatment protocols and better outcomes for affected children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who experience status epilepticus, particularly those presenting in emergency departments in northern Nigeria.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 0-11 years or those not experiencing status epilepticus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment of childhood status epilepticus, ultimately reducing mortality and improving quality of life for affected children.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on childhood SE in this region is novel, similar research has shown success in understanding neurological emergencies in other populations.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.