Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Chemosensitivity and SUDEP

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · Oct 18, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking into Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) to understand better what causes this serious condition. Researchers at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics are studying how seizures affect breathing, heart function, and the ability to wake up. They believe that some cases of SUDEP could happen because people might not notice high levels of carbon dioxide in their bodies when their breathing is disrupted. Participants will be monitored for ten years to track their health and any changes.

To join this study, you need to be between 18 and 99 years old and have confirmed or suspected epilepsy. You must be admitted to the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit or receiving care in the Epilepsy Clinic. However, if you have certain health problems, are pregnant, or use opioids, you may not be eligible. If you participate, you can expect regular check-ups and support over the ten-year period to help researchers learn more about seizure-related health issues.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. The subject is between 18 and 99 years of age.
• • 2. Confirmed or suspected epilepsy.
• • 3. Admission to the EMU for spell characterization (EMU group) or undergoing care in the University of Iowa Health Care Epilepsy Clinic.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. History of uncontrolled cardiac, pulmonary, or hepatic disease.
• • 2. Progressive or uncontrolled neurologic disease unrelated to epilepsy.
• • 3. Current opioid use.
• • 4. Women of child-bearing potential who are pregnant or capable of becoming pregnant (e.g. sexual activity within the past 21 days without a highly effective form of birth control or positive urine pregnancy test).
• • 5. Other comorbid condition that may influence the safety or feasibility of HCVR testing.
• • 6. Limited decision-making capacity and absence of a qualified representative.