photic stimulation
Pronunciation: FOH-tik stim-yuh-LAY-shun
A standard EEG activation procedure using flashing lights to provoke abnormal brain electrical activity.
Full Definition
Photic stimulation, also known as intermittent photic stimulation (IPS), is a standard activation procedure performed during EEG recordings to elicit abnormal electrical activity in photosensitive individuals. The procedure involves flashing a strobe light at various frequencies (typically 1-30 Hz) while recording brain waves. This technique can provoke seizures or epileptiform discharges in patients with photosensitive epilepsy, helping to confirm the diagnosis and identify triggers. Photic stimulation is particularly useful for detecting juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and other generalized epilepsy syndromes that have photosensitive components.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as IPS (intermittent photic stimulation) in technical reports.
In Context
- "Photic stimulation at 15 Hz triggered generalized spike-wave discharges." — EEG activation procedure report
- "The patient experienced myoclonic jerks during photic stimulation testing." — Photosensitivity evaluation