Symmetrical Claustrum Sign Helps Diagnose Pediatric Epilepsy
This study looked at a specific brain imaging sign called the symmetrical claustrum sign (SCS) in children diagnosed with febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES).
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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Epilepsy Research Summaries | Genetics | Imaging & EEG | Lifestyle & Sleep | New Studies | Pediatrics
Multimodal Approach Improves Diagnosis of Pediatric Seizures
In a study involving 249 children who experienced new-onset bilateral tonic-clonic seizures, researchers aimed to understand how different diagnostic methods could help classify the type of seizures.
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Machine Learning Model Aims to Predict Epilepsy Treatment Success
This study focused on children with drug-resistant epilepsy, which means their seizures do not respond well to standard medications.
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Devices & Neuromodulation | Drug-Resistant Epilepsy | Epilepsy Research Summaries | Genetics | Imaging & EEG | New Studies
Targeting Deep Brain Stimulation for Better Epilepsy Outcomes
Researchers studied deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a treatment for people with epilepsy who do not respond to medications and cannot have surgery to remove the affected brain tissue.
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Machine Learning Improves Detection of Heart and Brain Anomalies
Researchers studied how to detect unusual patterns in heart and brain activity data, specifically using ECG (heart) and EEG (brain) readings.
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New Insights Into Epilepsy Through Metabolomics Research
Researchers studied the metabolic profiles of people with epilepsy to see if there are common patterns among different groups.
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Inconsistent MRI Practices for Pediatric Seizures Across Canada
Researchers studied how pediatric hospitals in Canada use imaging methods, like MRI and CT scans, to evaluate children who have new-onset seizures.
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Choosing the Right Method for Epilepsy Care Recommendations
This study looked at different methods used to create consensus-based recommendations (CBRs) for epilepsy care.
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New Model Helps Locate Epileptogenic Tubers in Tuberous Sclerosis
Researchers studied how to better locate epileptogenic tubers (ETs) in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a condition that can cause epilepsy.
