Invention:
This technology provides a novel set of gene-based biomarkers to predict seizure free results in Stereotactic Laser Amygdalohippocampotomy (SLAH) for epileptic patients. These biomarkers are based on leukocyte RNA expression so the prognosis can be easily done by a blood draw instead of a brain biopsy.
Background:
Drug resistant epilepsy patients are unable to live a standard quality of life as seizures are untreatable with drugs. Candidates for surgery are patients who fail adequate trials of at least two first line medicines and one combination of at least two drugs. SLAH provides a less invasive procedure with favorable seizure-free or seizure reduction for drug resistant epilepsy patients. Approximately 2/3 of patients that go through craniotomy involving procedures, such as Amygdalohippocampotomy (AH), obtain seizure free status. Meanwhile an approximate 77% of patients that go through SLAH obtain significant seizure reductions (54% obtaining seizure free status). Due to the high numbers of patients that may be unresponsive to surgical interventions, it is critical to implement a prediction analysis technology to reduce expenses to both patients and healthcare providers that result from unnecessary treatment. Furthermore, patients can avoid serious consequences like verbal and visual memory loss from performing a surgery they wouldn't respond to.
Applications:
- Genetic biomarkers
- Prognosis for seizure free outcome after surgery for epilepsy patients
Advantages:
- Reduces significant costs involved with surgery
- The prognosis can be done on blood cells instead of brain biopsy
- Provides the potential to avoid unnecessary procedures in patients who will not benefit from SLAH
