New Biomarkers Found for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy Using Imaging
Summary
Researchers conducted a systematic review to explore how advanced imaging techniques can identify neuro-inflammatory biomarkers in people with epilepsy who do not respond to medication. They looked at studies published in various scientific databases and focused on 12 studies that met their criteria. These studies involved different imaging methods, including PET scans, MRI, SPECT, and CT scans, to find specific markers related to inflammation in the brain.
The review found six key neuro-inflammatory biomarkers linked to drug-resistant epilepsy: TSPO, BBBD, HMGB1, LRP1, P-gp, and MPO. Among these, TSPO was the most commonly identified, appearing in six of the studies. The use of advanced imaging techniques allowed researchers to detect these biomarkers without needing invasive procedures, which is important for patient comfort and safety.
Understanding these biomarkers is significant because they could help doctors diagnose epilepsy more accurately and predict how patients might respond to treatments. They may also assist in identifying the areas of the brain that need surgical intervention for those who do not benefit from medication. However, it’s important to note that this research is still in the early stages, and more studies are needed to confirm these findings and their practical applications in clinical settings.
