How to Read an EEG

Description

The EEG is a simple and widely available neurophysiological test that, if interpreted correctly, can provide valuable insight into the functioning of the brain. However, despite its increasing usage in a range of settings, there is a common misconception that the EEG is inherently difficult to interpret. Compounding the problem is the lack of dedicated training and no standardized approach by encephalographers. This book provides a clear and concise guide to reading and interpreting EEGs in a systematic way. Presented in three sections, the first delivers foundational technical knowledge of how EEGs work, and the second concentrates on a comprehensive, stepwise approach to reading and interpreting an EEG. The third section contains examples of EEGs in common scenarios, such as seizures and post-cardiac arrest, enabling readers to correlate their findings to clinical indications. Heavily illustrated with over 200 example EEGs, this is an essential pocket guide to interpreting these tests. Concise and systematic, this book is quick and easy to read, essential for the busy clinician Presents a systematic approach to reading and interpreting EEGs, ensuring clinicians have a solid framework to rely on and enabling them to easily identify any clinically important features Over 200 examples of EEGs illustrate the techniques explained in the book and act as examples for the conditions and results described Covers the foundational technical knowledge of how EEGs work, helping readers to gain a basic understanding of the technique, which is then built on over the course of the book until readers are confident in reading and interpreting EEGs Devotes an entire section to examples of EEGs in common clinical scenarios, enabling readers to correlate their findings to clinical indications Part I. Basics: 1. Introduction 2. Polarity 3. Montages 4. Localization 5. Active reference 6. Frequencies and rhythms 7. Maturation 8. Normal adult EEG Part II. Interpretation: 9. Approach to EEG reading 10. Background 11. Foreground 12. Common artifacts 13. Normal variants 14. Sporadic abnormalities 15. Repetitive abnormalities 16. Ictal patterns (electrographic seizures) 17. Activation procedures Part III. Specific conditions: 18. Common seizure mimics 19. Seizures 20. Epilepsies 21. Epilepsy syndromes 22. Focal dysfunction (lesions) 23. Global dysfunction (encephalopathy) 24. Status epilepticus 25. Post cardiac arrest 26. Brain death. Appendix: How to Write a Report Index