Your nose knows: can smell predict seizures?

NCT ID NCT05865561

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolphe de Rothschild Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is testing whether people with epilepsy release specific odors that can predict a seizure before it happens. Researchers will collect skin swabs from 100 adults with drug-resistant epilepsy during and between seizures. The goal is to identify the chemical 'signature' of these odors, which could one day lead to a simple, non-invasive seizure prediction tool.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: VOC sampling (skin swab)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a non-invasive way to predict seizures minutes to hours in advance, improving safety and quality of life for people with epilepsy.
What could go wrong: This is an early, small study (100 people) focused on identifying odors, not yet testing a prediction device. The results may not apply to all seizure types or people.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

epilepsy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

EPILEPSY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild
RECRUITING

Paris, 75019, France
Institut La Teppe
RECRUITING

Tain-l'Hermitage, 26600, France

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