Electroencephalography in Pediatric Epilepsy

Abstract

Surface electroencephalography (EEG) is a useful electrophysiological investigation for evaluating a paroxysmal event in children. It measures the electro potential difference between two points on the scalp. It is a non-invasive tool that analyzes neuronal maturation and abnormal cortical excitability. EEG helps in differentiating epileptic from non-epileptic clinical event and focal seizures from generalized seizure. This review is to discuss the rational use of interictal scalp EEG in diagnosis of epilepsy and different types of epilepsy syndromes in children. It further highlights its role in febrile seizure, first unprovoked seizure, status epilepticus and unexplained coma.