Glowing dye could help surgeons spot hidden epilepsy lesions

NCT ID NCT07657975

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: Hospices Civils de Lyon Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether a fluorescent dye called 5-ALA can help surgeons see and remove abnormal brain tissue in people with drug-resistant epilepsy caused by focal cortical dysplasia (FCD). FCD lesions are often hard to distinguish from healthy brain during surgery, making complete removal difficult. Five participants will receive 5-ALA before surgery, and the surgical team will use a special microscope to detect fluorescence, aiming to improve the precision of the resection.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: 5-ALA (Gliolan)
What this could lead to: If successful, this technique could help surgeons remove more of the epileptic lesion, potentially improving seizure control and reducing the need for medication.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study with only 5 patients, so results may not apply to everyone. The approach is still experimental and may not improve outcomes.

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.

Drug Resistant Epilepsy epilepsy Focal Cortical Dysplasia isolated focal cortical dysplasia type II

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DRUG-RESISTANT EPILEPSY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant - Groupement Hospitalier Est - Hospices Civils de Lyon

Bron, France
Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer - Groupement Hospitalier Est - Hospices Civils de Lyon

Bron, 69500, France

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