Saliva Testing Equates to Blood Tests for Managing Epilepsy with Keto Diet

A recent clinical trial highlights the potential of saliva-based testing to revolutionize epilepsy management for thousands of patients worldwide. Traditionally, monitoring ketone levels—a crucial component for individuals on the ketogenic diet to control seizures—requires blood samples via finger pricks, which can be uncomfortable and invasive. However, researchers from Monash University, in collaboration with China's Shenzhen Children's Hospital and the biotech company MX3 Diagnostics, have demonstrated that a simple saliva test can provide accurate readings comparable to blood tests.

The innovative device, known as the MX3 LAB, uses a non-invasive test strip to measure salivary ketones—metabolic acids released when the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This advancement is particularly beneficial for children with drug-resistant epilepsy, who often need regular monitoring. The sensor offers results within 30 seconds, providing a painless alternative to traditional blood testing.

The study involved approximately 40 children with a median age of four and a half years who began ketogenic therapy and had both blood and saliva samples taken during their week-long hospital stay. The findings proved a strong correlation between salivary and blood ketone levels, indicating the saliva test's reliability.

Dr. Neha Kaul, a neuroscientist at Monash University, emphasized the significance: 'All that's required is a tongue touch to the test strip, and parents can get results quickly without any discomfort. This could dramatically simplify and improve the monitoring process, especially for young children.'

The test's ease could enable parents to perform daily assessments at home, enhancing dietary management and seizure control. MX3 CEO Michael Luther commented, 'This innovation will significantly improve quality of life for children by reducing the pain and anxiety associated with blood draws.' Further research is needed to validate the test's effectiveness in infants and in long-term ketogenic diet users.

Published in Epilepsia, the study paves the way for more accessible, non-invasive monitoring options that could change epilepsy care worldwide. The technology's potential extends beyond epilepsy management, offering a less invasive method for ketone monitoring in various metabolic and neurological conditions.