EEG Benign Variants

Electroencephalography (EEG) provides a noninvasive method for directly measuring the brain's electrical activity. Waveform traces are recorded using electrodes placed on the scalp following standardized protocols. These EEG recordings offer valuable insights into the underlying brain function while helping to clarify seizure disorders and assess overall neurological status.

EEG is widely recognized for its role in seizure evaluation and epilepsy diagnosis. In addition, EEG also aids in diagnosing sleep disorders such as rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder, narcolepsy, and parasomnias. Additionally, EEG plays a crucial role in evaluating and monitoring complex, multifactorial conditions, including encephalopathy, coma, medication effects, trauma impact, and brain death.

EEG tracings are particularly valuable in identifying and characterizing epileptiform and other pathological patterns associated with various disease states. Neurologists interpreting these tracings must refine their skills in recognizing abnormal patterns and determining whether they are benign (normal variants) or epileptiform, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective management of neurological conditions.

Overinterpreting normal EEG variants of uncertain significance can create unnecessary concern, leading to additional testing and potential misdiagnoses. EEG interpreters must be equally knowledgeable about benign EEG variants and their significance as they are about epileptiform and other disease-specific patterns.