The data abstraction form included extensive guidance to aid reproducibility and standardization in recording study details, results, risk of bias, and applicability. One reviewer abstracted data and a methodologist checked accuracy and completeness. Data are publicly available in the Systematic Review Data Repository. Any ADHD tool evaluation for the diagnosis of ADHD, requiring a reference standard of a clinical diagnosis by a mental health specialist. Sometimes, unusual brain activity happens when we are tired or asleep. Because of this, some EEG tests are done while you are sleep deprived.
Electroencephalography (EEG) is a non-invasive test that measures electrical activity in the brain. It is commonly used to diagnose various conditions affecting the brain’s function. Here are 10 conditions that can be diagnosed using an EEG:
1. Epilepsy
- Epilepsy is one of the most common conditions diagnosed with an EEG. Abnormal brain activity patterns known as seizures can be detected through EEG readings.
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that records the brain’s electrical activity. Healthcare professionals use it to help assess and understand neurological conditions, sleep disorders, and brain trauma. The EEG is used to detect epilepsy in patients, showing irregular brain activity that indicates seizures. However, as the test records electrical activity in the brain, other diagnoses can be made or supported with an EEG.
Your healthcare provider will inform you when you may resume any medicines you stopped taking before the test. Ask your healthcare provider to tell you what you should do before your test. Below is a list of common steps that you may be asked to do.
2. Brain Tumors
- Brain tumors can cause changes in brain activity that can be detected on an EEG. This test is often used to monitor the effects of treatment on tumor growth.
In order to conduct an ambulatory EEG, you must wear a small EEG recorder around your waist for several days or weeks. You will also be given a portable video camera to records parts of your day while wearing the EEG recorder. The EEG procedure is painless, comfortable and generally very safe. No electricity is put into your body while it’s carried out.
Four of these included 3- and 4-year-old children.42 –44 A large majority used a CPT, which assessed omission errors (reflecting inattention), commission errors (impulsivity), and reaction time SD (response time variability). Studies varied in use of traditional visual CPTs, such as the Test of Variables of Attention, more novel, multifaceted “hybrid” CPT paradigms, and virtual reality CPTs built upon environments designed to emulate real-world classroom distractibility. Studies used idiosyncratic combinations of individual cognitive measures to achieve the best performance, though many reported on CPT attention and impulsivity measures. The discs will be attached to wires which send electrical signals to a computer. An EEG may detect brain infections, which include conditions such as a brain abscess and swelling.
Doctors may also use an EEG to understand when a person is seizure-free after receiving treatment. Epilepsy is a neurological seizure condition that occurs in one of several parts of the brain. The main symptom of epilepsy is recurrent seizures due to unusual electrical brain activity. Scores for rating scales tended to correlate poorly across raters, and ADHD symptoms in the same child varied across settings, indicating that no single informant in a single setting is a gold-standard for diagnosis. If the standard test does not detect correct brain wave patterns, you may be asked to undergo Video EEG ambulatory tracking.
3. Stroke
- An EEG can help identify abnormalities in brain activity caused by a stroke. This information can guide treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
4. Alzheimer’s Disease
- Alzheimer’s disease can lead to changes in brain activity patterns that can be detected on an EEG. This test can help with early diagnosis and monitoring of the disease progression.
5. Sleep Disorders
- Various sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea can be diagnosed using an EEG. The test can reveal abnormalities in brain activity during sleep.
6. Encephalopathy
- Encephalopathy refers to brain dysfunction that can be caused by various factors such as infection or metabolic problems. An EEG can help diagnose this condition by detecting abnormal brain activity.
7. Head Injuries
- An EEG can be used to assess brain function following a head injury. Abnormal brain activity patterns can indicate the extent of damage and guide treatment decisions.
8. Migraines
- People suffering from migraines may undergo an EEG to assess brain activity during a migraine episode. This can help identify triggers and guide treatment strategies.
9. Psychiatric Disorders
- Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder can sometimes be associated with abnormal brain activity patterns. An EEG can provide valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment planning.
10. Developmental Delays
- Children with developmental delays may undergo an EEG to assess brain function and identify any underlying neurological issues. Early detection can lead to timely interventions and support.
Overall, EEG is a valuable tool for diagnosing a wide range of conditions affecting the brain’s function. By measuring electrical activity in the brain, this test can provide crucial information for healthcare providers to make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans.
