title: Diagnostic testing of seizure disorders.
abstract: Although a thorough history and physical examination remain the basis for the evaluation of patients with a possible seizure disorder, electroencephalography (EEG) is a necessary extension of the neurologic examination. Most patients also require a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to identify a potentially epileptogenic lesion. This article reviews the technical considerations, common findings, and potential pitfalls related to the use of EEG and MRI. Adjunctive test such as ambulatory EEG, video/EEG, positron emission tomography, single photon emission computed tomography, and serum evaluation also are discussed for use in specific circumstances.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA.
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Gilliam
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Wyllie
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D003955:Diagnostic Tests, Routine; D004569:Electroencephalography; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D010348:Patient Care Team