Identifying genetic causes of heart issues in epilepsy patients
Genetic Markers of Cardiovascular Diseases and the Potential Role in Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy.
This study is trying to find out if certain genetic factors can help explain why some young adults with epilepsy are at risk for sudden death.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Mayo Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rochester, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT02824822 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the genetic factors that may contribute to sudden unexpected death in patients with epilepsy. It focuses on individuals aged 18 to 50 who are at high risk for sudden death due to their epilepsy or related conditions. Participants will be assessed using a risk scoring tool and may include blood relatives of patients with a history of epilepsy or cardiac issues. Genetic testing will be conducted using blood samples or buccal cells to identify potential underlying cardiovascular disorders.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 to 50 with epilepsy or related conditions who are at high risk for sudden unexpected death.
Not a fit: Patients with seizures due to ischemic events or those with a history of cranial surgery or brain tumors may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better understanding and prevention of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in identifying genetic markers related to cardiovascular issues in epilepsy, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults ages 18 - 50 with a diagnosis of epilepsy or seizures, or syncope or drowning or cardiac arrest or sudden death or an abnormal ECG suggestive of an arrhythmia * Blood-relatives (Aged 18+) of a patient with a history of epilepsy, seizure, cardiac arrest, sudden death, drowning, syncope or arrhythmia Exclusion Criteria: * Those who are unable to provide written consent. * Prisoners (vulnerable population) * Seizures secondary to ischemic events * Traumatic brain injury resulting in seizures * History of cranial surgery * History of brain tumor
Where this trial is running
Rochester, Minnesota
- Mayo Clinic — Rochester, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Virend K. Somers, MD PhD — Mayo Clinic
- Study coordinator: Somers CPL Lab
- Email: CPL@mayo.edu
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.