Focal Cortical Dysplasia Types Affect Seizure Surgery Outcomes
This study looked at 77 patients who had a specific brain condition called focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), which can cause epilepsy.
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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Study Aims to Identify Dementia Risks in Older Adults with Seizures
The ELUCID study is a research project that looks at older adults, specifically those aged 55 and older, who have developed seizures without a clear cause, known as late-onset unexplained epilepsy (LoUE).
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Understanding Alexander Disease in Children and Its Impact
This study looked at children diagnosed with Alexander disease (AD), a rare neurological condition, over the past ten years.
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EEG Alpha Frequency May Help Track Cognitive Changes in Epilepsy
Researchers studied how brain activity, measured through EEG, relates to cognitive difficulties caused by antiseizure medications in people with epilepsy.
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Devices & Neuromodulation | Epilepsy Research Summaries | Imaging & EEG | New Studies | Pediatrics | Status Epilepticus
Continuous EEG Improves Seizure Detection in Critical Care
Researchers studied the use of continuous EEG (cEEG) in intensive care units (ICUs) to see how it helps with diagnosing and treating patients, especially those with epilepsy or brain injuries.
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Comorbidities | Devices & Neuromodulation | Epilepsy Research Summaries | Imaging & EEG | Lifestyle & Sleep | New Studies
Low-Frequency Ultrasonic Stimulation May Help Balance Autonomic Nervous System
This study looked at a new way to stimulate nerves without touching the skin, using sound waves.
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New EEG Biomarker Improves Epilepsy Diagnosis Accuracy
Researchers studied a new way to diagnose epilepsy using electroencephalogram (EEG) data, which measures electrical activity in the brain.
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Guidelines to Reduce Risks of Visually-Provoked Seizures
A recent study by an expert panel from the Epilepsy Foundation focused on visually-provoked seizures (VPS), which can be triggered by certain visual stimuli like flashing lights or specific patterns.
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Machine Learning Improves Surgical Decisions for Epilepsy Care
This study looked at how machine learning (ML) can help doctors make better decisions about surgery for people with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE).
