dEEGtal Insight secures CHF 1 million to enhance Epilepsy Diagnosis

A Critical Need for Better Diagnosis Tools for 10 Million Patients Annually

Each year, about 10 million people worldwide experience a possible first epileptic seizure, yet up to 80% of initial EEG readings appear normal, delaying accurate diagnoses and worsening patients’ prognosis. Current diagnostic approaches are highly specific but lack sensitivity, contributing to an alarming 70% risk of relapse in untreated patients and serious impact on quality of life, with potential restrictions on their ability to work or drive.

“Our mission at dEEGtal is to bridge this gap by using AI to detect subtle, often-overlooked markers of epilepsy,” says Eric Ménétré, CEO and co-founder of dEEGtal.  Margitta Seeck, head of the EEG and Epilepsy Unit at Geneva University Hospital (HUG), co-founder of dEEGtal, adds: “This cutting-edge approach not only enhances diagnostic precision but also offers a transformative tool for clinicians, enabling earlier interventions and ultimately improving patients' quality of life.”

A Unique AI-Driven Approach

What sets dEEGtal apart is its use of artificial intelligence models trained on large EEG datasets. The software generates a comprehensive risk score even when standard visual indicators of epilepsy are absent, giving doctors vital insights that were previously unattainable. Additionally, dEEGtal offers a user-friendly interface, automated medical reporting, and seamless integration into existing clinical workflows.

The CHF 1 million seed round, with CHF 750,000 contributed by the Wyss Center, will be used to refine the AI models, conduct clinical validation studies, and guide dEEGtal to regulation. “We are thrilled to have the Wyss Center’s support. Their expertise in MedTech innovation and regulatory pathways is invaluable as we advance our technology”, Eric Ménétré added.

Accelerating Development and Market Entry

The funding will fast-track dEEGtal’s plans to obtain FDA clearance for the American market, followed by efforts to secure CE marking in Europe and Switzerland. “Our strategy includes introducing our solution in leading neurology centers in the USA and expanding internationally,” explains Stefano Gallotto, CTO and co-founder.

Targeting a Multi-Billion Dollar Opportunity

The global epilepsy diagnostics market is expected to grow from CHF 3.3 billion in 2024 to more than CHF 10 billion by 2032. dEEGtal is well-positioned to capture a substantial share of this market by offering an innovative solution which not only improves diagnostic accuracy but also serves as a tool for ruling out other conditions like syncope and stroke.

“Epilepsy is just our starting point, but our vision extends way beyond, already foreseeing this technology applied to different neurological diseases” says Stefano Gallotto.

(Press release)