Feasibility and clinical utility of early electroencephalogram (EEG) in children with first seizure

Lorie Hamiwka, Neetu Singh, Silvia Kozlik, Elaine Wirrell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

The feasibility and clinical utility of early electroencephalogram (within 48 hours) was studied in 127 children (age, 1 month-17 years) referred for a "first seizure." The electroencephalogram was considered late after 48 hours. Electroencephalogram abnormalities were classified as nonepileptiform or epileptiform. Children were classified as having an "epileptic" or "nonepileptic" event. An early electroencephalogram was obtained in 23 (18%). Late referral (n = 36), weekend event (n = 23), difficulty contacting families (n = 11), parental schedules (n = 9), and laboratory scheduling (n = 11) resulted in late electroencephalograms. All 94 children with an epileptic event had an electroencephalogram, 19 (20%) within 48 hours. Results were abnormal in 9 (47%) early (7 epileptiform, 2 nonepileptiform) and 35 (44%) late (30 epileptiform, 5 nonepileptiform). Increased abnormalities were not seen with early electroencephalography (P = .50). Early electroencephalograms may not be feasible in the pediatric population and did not show a higher yield of abnormalities.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)762-765
Number of pages4
JournalJournal of child neurology
Volume23
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2008

Keywords

  • Electroencephalogram
  • Epilepsy
  • First seizure

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Clinical Neurology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Feasibility and clinical utility of early electroencephalogram (EEG) in children with first seizure'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this