The EEG is a functional test that allows the collection of electrical activity in the brain. This examination is non-invasive and painless.

Presentation

At any age, it allows the diagnosis of daytime or nocturnal epilepsy, to eliminate it (certificate, pseudo-seizures) or to evaluate the effectiveness of an antiepileptic drug and to assess vigilance.

An electroencephalogram (EEG) must be performed in an approved center and under the responsibility of a neurophysiologist.

graphe eeg

What are the indications for outpatient EEG?

icone cerveau eeg

In children:

  • Before the introduction of a psychostimulant
  • As part of the evaluation of mental retardation
  • In case of unexplained sleepiness

In adults:

  • Early cognitive impairment
  • Unexplained malaise
  • Atypical motor manifestations

In the senior citizen:

  • In the face of a confusional syndrome
  • Psychogenic syncope
  • Cognitive disorders or fluctuations
  • Psychomotor slowing down mislabeled
    (differential diagnosis with melancholia)

Practical information

How does this exam work?

  • The EEG technician places 21 electrodes on the scalp in a symmetrical way to cover the whole head.
  • The patient is installed comfortably (armchair or bed depending on the case), in a quiet room with little light, in order to promote relaxation.
  • Activation exercises are then performed to sensitize the arrival of any abnormalities through breathing techniques or through light.

The different types of EEG

In the lab:

  • Standard EEG
    20 to 30 minutes
  • Nap EEG
    Approximately 1 hour
    Usually done after sleep deprivation and a non-pathological standard EEG
  • Long-term EEG
    4 hours minimum
    With sleep analysis + video
  • Iterative Sleep Latency Tests
    4 to 5 30-minute naps
  • Tests for maintaining wakefulness
    4 sessions of 40 minutes in a chair

Outpatient:

  • Holter EEG
    12 to 24 hours
    Performed at home with sleep analysis