Early onset seizures affecting neonates and young children can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders and ultimately have an impact on the future quality of life of these patients. The medical community is aware of the vulnerability of the brain of such young children, however little is known about how convulsion episodes eventually affect their brains. New clinical protocols, focused on protecting the brain of young patients, could help improve their outcome.

This joint research project between ICFO and Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu is validating a photonic platform for the non-invasive and continuous monitoring of the cerebral metabolism of these patients. This can be used at the bed-side and aid in the understanding of the correlation between alteration in brain metabolism and neurodevelopmental deficits. The photonic device is integrated with standard electroencephalography, which is currently used to diagnose the seizures. The long-term goal is the development of early neuroprotection treatment strategies for young patients suffering seizures, regardless of the cause these attacks, in order to improve the neurodevelopmental outcome and the quality of life of these patients and their integration into society.