Using machine learning to improve diagnosis of functional seizures
Feasibility of machine learning to improve the diagnostic odyssey for functional seizures
This study is working on a new tool to help doctors quickly figure out if someone has functional seizures instead of epilepsy, which can take a long time to diagnose, so that patients can get the right help sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11054788 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the diagnosis of functional seizures, which are often misidentified as epilepsy, by developing a computer-aided diagnostic tool. The project focuses on creating a Functional Seizures Likelihood Score (FSLS) that helps non-expert clinicians identify patients who may have functional seizures more quickly. By utilizing data from video-EEG monitoring, the research seeks to reduce the average delay of 8.4 years in diagnosing these seizures, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The study will also gather preliminary data for a future clinical trial that aims to streamline the diagnostic process using electronic health records.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing recurrent unprovoked seizures that have not been diagnosed as epilepsy.
Not a fit: Patients who have already been diagnosed with epilepsy or other seizure disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the time to accurately diagnose functional seizures, leading to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using computer-aided diagnostic tools for improving diagnosis in various medical fields, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kerr, Wesley Thomas Kim — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Kerr, Wesley Thomas Kim
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.