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Chapter 11 - Seizures and Epileptiform Discharges

from Part II - Case-Based Approach to Specific Conditions

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  22 February 2024

Neville M. Jadeja
Affiliation:
University of Massachusetts Medical School
Kyle C. Rossi
Affiliation:
University of Massachusetts Medical School
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Summary

This chapter describes recognizing seizures, brief potentially ictal rhythmic discharges (BIRDs), and sporadic epileptiform discharges using a case-based approach. Electrographic seizures are patterns 10 seconds or longer of epileptic activity occurring at >2.5 Hz or other evolving patterns. If these patterns are associated with a clinical correlate, they are called electroclinical seizures, even if they are less than 10 seconds in duration. A high seizure burden may be associated with neurological decline. Patterns of rhythmic activity too short to qualify as seizures are termed BIRDs. Sporadic epileptiform discharges such as spikes or sharp waves are associated with increased seizure risk and epilepsy. Epilepsy itself is a clinical diagnosis of recurrent and unprovoked seizures.

Type
Chapter
Information
Critical Care EEG Basics
Rapid Bedside EEG Reading for Acute Care Providers
, pp. 160 - 168
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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References

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