electroencephalography
Pronunciation: ih-lek-troh-en-sef-uh-LOG-ruh-fee
Also written as: EEG — electroencephalography
Diagnostic technique that records electrical activity of the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp.
Full Definition
Electroencephalography (EEG) is a non-invasive neurophysiological monitoring method that records electrical activity produced by neuronal firing in the brain. Electrodes placed on the scalp detect voltage fluctuations resulting from ionic current flows within brain neurons. EEG is primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, evaluate seizure activity, assess brain function in comatose patients, and investigate sleep disorders. The technique can identify abnormal brain wave patterns, seizure activity, and other neurological abnormalities. Video-EEG monitoring combines continuous EEG recording with simultaneous video monitoring to correlate electrical abnormalities with clinical behaviors.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as EEG. Distinguish from other electrophysiological studies like EMG or ECG.
In Context
- "Continuous electroencephalography monitoring revealed subclinical seizure activity in the ICU patient." — neurocritical care report
- "The EEG showed generalized spike-and-wave discharges consistent with absence epilepsy." — epilepsy clinic note