Advanced MRI techniques for detecting causes of focal epilepsy

High-resolution Multi-parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Focal Epilepsy

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT06550726

This study is testing if advanced MRI techniques can help find hidden causes of focal epilepsy in patients who didn't show any problems on regular MRIs.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment66 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT06550726 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of high-resolution multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in identifying subtle lesions responsible for focal epilepsy in patients who have previously undergone standard MRI without revealing any abnormalities. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, including T1-weighted inversion recovery sequences, the study aims to enhance the detection rate of structural lesions that may contribute to drug-resistant epilepsy. The research focuses on patients with a confirmed diagnosis of focal epilepsy and aims to apply these advanced imaging protocols in a local clinical setting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy who have had at least one prior MRI that did not reveal any accountable lesions.

Not a fit: Patients who are contraindicated for MRI due to metallic implants or other medical conditions will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy for patients with focal epilepsy, leading to better-targeted treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with advanced MRI techniques in detecting subtle lesions in epilepsy, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Consecutive patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy fulfilling the following criteria -

  1\. Diagnosis of focal epilepsy with a probable site identified, as defined by concordant results from any TWO of the following:
* Clinical seminology compatible with focal epilepsy.
* Electroencephalography pointing towards a specific site for focal epilepsy.
* Positive ictal brain scintigraphy with SPECT-CT correlation. AND 2. Previous MRI (at least one study with protocol tailored for epilepsy) which did not reveal accountable focal lesion.

AND 3. Able to consent for MRI examination (if patient under age of 18, consent for MRI will be obtained from guardian). Patients will be provided information leaflets to read on, and written consent before taking part in this study and MRI examination.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are contraindicated to magnetic resonance imaging (such as due to underlying MRI incompatible metallic implants)
* Patients who cannot cooperate for MRI scanning.
* Patients show are unable to provide informed consent.

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Epilepsies, Partial
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.