Interictal serum S-100B protein levels in intractable epilepsy: a case-control study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Biochemistry
• Epileptology

Background:

• Epilepsy is a common childhood neurologic disorder, with a significant percentage experiencing difficult-to-control seizures.
• Prolonged and frequent epileptic seizures can lead to neuronal damage.
• S-100B protein is a recognized peripheral biomarker for brain injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate interictal serum S-100B protein levels in children with intractable epilepsy.
• To assess the potential of S-100B protein as a biomarker for neuronal damage in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 32 children with intractable epilepsy and 25 healthy controls were enrolled.
• Serum S-100B protein levels were quantified using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA).

Main Results:

• Serum S-100B protein levels were significantly higher in children with intractable epilepsy (0.094±0.011 μm/L) compared to healthy controls (0.083±0.014 μm/L).
• The difference between the groups was statistically significant (P=0.004).

Conclusions:

• Elevated serum S-100B protein levels in children with focal intractable epilepsy suggest its utility as a peripheral biomarker.
• S-100B protein may indicate ongoing neuronal damage in pediatric focal intractable epilepsy.