Researchers are looking into different areas that may be involved in the mechanism of SUDEP. While there is no definite source, they have noticed some similarities between patients.
Current research is focusing on several areas:
- Case control studies
- Pathophysiological research
Case control studies are helping researchers to gather information about how many deaths are attributed to SUDEP, the events preceding the death, as well as any other similarities between patients. The pathophysiological research involves analysis of organs after death and animal model studies. Recent studies are focusing on pulmonary and cardiac influences on SUDEP. It is currently believed that the causes of SUDEP are multi-factoral (the result of many different mechanisms working together).
The result: the exact event triggering SUDEP may vary from patient to patient.
Acknowledgements:
Dr. Elizabeth Donner, Hospital for Sick Children, Ontario
Dr. Neelan Pillay, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary Alberta
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