Kennedy Krieger Study Confirms Expanded List of Biomarkers for Sturge-Weber Syndrome

A new study from Kennedy Krieger Institute highlights significant advances in identifying biomarkers for Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS).
 
Researchers found that MRI scans, EEGs, and blood and urine testscan detect signs of SWS before seizures begin, allowing doctors to identify infants at highest risk and potentially start treatment earlier. According to senior author Dr. Anne Comi, these advances could improve long-term outcomes by changing the course of a child’s development.
 
The study also found that biomarkers can help:
  • Predict seizure risk and detect early brain changes using MRI and EEG.
  • Identify children most likely to benefit from treatment with a specialized laterality score.
  • Monitor abnormal blood vessel growth through noninvasive blood and urine tests.
  • Improve diagnosis and risk prediction by combining imaging and clinical data with AI.
 
Overall, the research suggests that earlier diagnosis and more personalized treatment could significantly improve care for children with Sturge-Weber syndrome.
Dr. Comi

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