EEG additional reading

Question 1

Describe 3 ways in which epilepsy can affect background activity on the EEG

Answer 1

1. Idiopathic epilepsy - no change, only that due to AEDs
2. Focal epilepsy - focal slowing of BG activity
3. Epilepsy due to underlying organic pathology - diffuse slowing of BG activity

Question 2

What is the difference between spikes and sharp waves?

Answer 2

Spikes = <70ms

Sharp waves = >70ms

Question 3

What EEG change is common with advancing age?

Answer 3

Slight slowing of alpha

Question 4

Who recorded the first EEG?

Answer 4

Hand Berger