IEDs in EEG: What They Mean for Seizure Recurrence
A recent study looked at how EEG (electroencephalogram) results can help predict the chances of having more seizures after someone experiences their first unprovoked seizure.
Imaging & EEG
This hub covers epilepsy EEG and MRI: how EEGs and brain imaging help doctors understand seizure patterns and possible causes. Clear explanations of common findings and what research suggests.
What you’ll find in this topic:
- Plain-language summaries of new epilepsy studies
- What the research means for real life
- Practical questions to ask your neurologist
- Related topics you can explore next
Imaging & EEG: What Families Usually Want to Know
- What an EEG can (and can’t) tell you
- Why EEGs can be “normal” even when seizures are real
- When MRI/other imaging matters (and what doctors look for)
- What “spikes,” “slowing,” and “epileptiform activity” mean
Common EEG & Imaging Terms in Plain English
- EEG: Measures electrical activity from the scalp (not a brain “scan”)
- Epileptiform discharges: Patterns that suggest seizure risk
- Ictal: Refers to during a seizure
- Interictal: Refers to between seizures
- Focal vs. Generalized: Pertaining to one specific spot on or network on one side of the brain vs. both sides/networks
- MRI Lesion: A structural change that might be related (not always)
Imaging & EEG FAQ
Can you have epilepsy with a normal EEG?
Yes. EEGs are a snapshot. Some people need repeat EEGs, sleep-deprived EEGs, or long-term monitoring.
Does an abnormal EEG mean someone will definitely have seizures?
Not always. It raises suspicion and risk, but diagnosis still depends on the full story.
Why do doctors order an MRI?
To look for structural causes like scars, malformations, tumors, and stroke-related changes, which can guide treatment.
What is video EEG monitoring?
An inpatient or extended study that records EEG and video together to match symptoms to brain activity.
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ADAM23 Gene Variants May Contribute to Focal Epilepsy
This study looked at a specific gene called ADAM23 and its potential role in causing focal epilepsy, which is a type of seizure disorder.
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Devices & Neuromodulation | Epilepsy Research Summaries | Genetics | Imaging & EEG | New Studies | Pediatrics
Surgery May Help Some Kids with SYNGAP1 Epilepsy
This study looked at children with a specific genetic condition called SYNGAP1-related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE), which causes severe developmental issues and epilepsy.
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ePVS Density May Not Indicate Epileptogenicity in Patients
Researchers studied the connection between enlarged perivascular spaces (ePVS) in the brain and certain markers of epilepsy in patients undergoing a specific type of brain monitoring called stereo-electroencephalography (SEEG).
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Understanding the Varied Effects of 15q11.2 Genetic Changes
This study looked at 37 children who had changes in a specific part of their DNA called the 15q11.2 region.
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BCKDK Gene Mutations Linked to Autism and Developmental Delays
This study looked at four children who had mutations in a specific gene called BCKDK.
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New Biomarkers Found for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy Using Imaging
Researchers conducted a systematic review to explore how advanced imaging techniques can identify neuro-inflammatory biomarkers in people with epilepsy who do not respond to medication.
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Drug-Resistant Epilepsy | Epilepsy Research Summaries | Genetics | Imaging & EEG | New Studies | Pediatrics
7T MRI Improves Lesion Detection in Pediatric Epilepsy
This study looked at how well ultra-high field 7T MRI works for children with drug-resistant focal epilepsy.
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New Brain Stimulation Method Shows Promise for Neurological Disorders
Researchers studied a method called transcranial temporal interference stimulation (tTIS) to see how it could help people with neurological and psychiatric disorders.
