What causes epileptiform activity?

The most common cause of PLEDs is an acute or subacute structural injury of the cerebral cortex, either diffuse or focal; however, PLEDs may also be seen in patients with a chronic static cerebral lesion or chronic epilepsy.

Does epileptiform mean epilepsy?

Interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), meaning spikes, polyspikes, sharp waves, or spike and slow-wave complexes without observed clinical seizures, are commonly observed in children with epilepsy. Neuropsychological evidence indicates that childhood epilepsy often has negative effects on cognitive function [2].

Should epileptiform discharges be treated?

Conclusions. Our data suggest that suppressing interictal discharges can improve behavior in children with epilepsy and behavioral problems, particularly partial epilepsy. Focal discharges may be involved in the underlying mechanisms of behavioral problems in epilepsy.

What does abnormal brain activity on EEG mean?

An abnormal EEG means that there is a problem in an area of brain activity. This can offer a clue in diagnosing various neurological conditions. Read 10 Conditions Diagnosed With an EEG to learn more. EEG testing is one part of making a diagnosis.

What does epileptiform activity on an EEG mean?

Epileptiform activity on EEG is indicative of cortical hyperexcitability, which carries an increased risk for seizures and the presence of an epileptic network within the brain. There are several types of epileptiform activity, including single discharges (sharps and spikes) and rhythmic and/or periodic activity.

How are EEG results different from normal seizures?

Abnormal EEG results can show up in two ways. First, normal brain activity may be suddenly interrupted and changed. This happens in epileptic seizures. In partial seizures, only part of the brain shows the sudden interruption. The whole brain shows it in generalized seizures.

How is an EEG used to diagnose brain disorders?

An EEG evaluates brain function by measuring the electrical activity within the brain. It records patterns of activity during rest and in response to certain stimuli. This helps your doctor diagnose and evaluate brain disorders and conditions. Keep in mind that electroencephalography is only one part of a comprehensive diagnostic workup.

How did the neuro look at Gabe’s EEG?

She ended up pulling a neuro out of surgery to come look at the readout. That neuro came, looked and left without a word. 15 minutes later she came back and told me I HAD to stop at the neuro office before I left the hospital. Here’s my 1st issue. First of all, Gabe’s regular neuro and I BOTH were fully expecting to find seizure activity.