Diagnosis & Imaging

EEG (electroencephalogram)

An EEG is a test that records the brain's electrical activity, used to evaluate seizures.

In short: EEG (electroencephalogram)

  • It helps evaluate seizures when they are a concern.
  • It records the brain's electrical activity.
  • It is painless and non-invasive.
  • It guides seizure diagnosis and management.

What it is

It is a test that records the brain's electrical activity using sensors placed on the scalp. It is painless and non-invasive.

Understanding EEG (electroencephalogram)

When seizures are a concern — for example, in a child with associated brain malformations — an EEG helps evaluate the brain's electrical activity to support diagnosis and guide management. It can help characterize seizures and inform decisions about treatment. As one of several tools, it is used alongside imaging and clinical assessment when evaluating seizures in encephalocele.

Why it matters

Understanding EEG helps families see how seizures are evaluated and why this painless test is used to guide seizure diagnosis and management when seizures are a concern.

Common questions

What does an EEG record?

The brain's electrical activity.

Why is it used?

To help evaluate seizures.

Is it painful?

No — it is painless and non-invasive.

Bottom line

An EEG records the brain's electrical activity and helps evaluate seizures when they are a concern.

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