Funding News - Individuals with Seizures Sought

Scientists at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) seek people age 5 and older with seizures for participation in research studies. People with seizures that are not controlled by standard antiepileptic drugs are eligible.  However, those with other medical conditions, particularly if on-going therapy is needed, may be excluded.  The scientists will record seizures with video-EEG (electroencephalogram) monitoring, and will conduct non-invasive brain imaging  tests such as positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.  The studies may last several months, with an inpatient stay of up to two weeks and 10-15 outpatient visits of about an hour each. 

Before patients enter the study, they will be screened in the outpatient clinic.  The screening will include a history, a neurological examination, an EEG, and an MRI scan, if needed.  Even if patients decide not to enter the study after the initial screening, the investigators may be able to make suggestions for further seizure evaluation or treatment. 

The studies will take place at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center in Bethesda, MD.   All study-related expenses will be paid by the NIH.  There is no cost for participation or for any tests associated with the research. 

For further information, contact Dr. William Theodore, Chief, Clinical Epilepsy Section, NINDS, NIH, Building 10, Room 5N250, 10 Center Drive MSC 1408, Bethesda, MD  20892-1408; telephone:  301-496-1923.  Please refer to study number 01N-0139.