The
distinguishing features of ictal epileptiform patterns are critical for
differentiating them from other EEG activities and for accurate seizure
diagnosis. Here are the key distinguishing features outlined in the document:
1. Stereotyped Nature:
Ictal patterns are often stereotyped across seizures for the individual
patient. This means that the same pattern tends to recur in different seizures,
which aids in identification.
2. Evolution of Activity:
A hallmark of ictal patterns is their evolution, which can manifest as changes
in frequency, amplitude, distribution, and waveform. This evolution is a key
feature that helps differentiate ictal patterns from other types of EEG
activity, such as normal rhythms or artifacts.
3. Behavioral Changes:
Ictal patterns are typically associated with stereotyped behavioral changes.
While some seizures may not exhibit obvious movements, the presence of
behavioral changes is a significant indicator of seizure activity. In some
cases, the lack of recognized behavioral change does not preclude the
occurrence of a seizure.
4. Cognitive Impairment:
Focal seizures may present without overt behavioral changes but can still lead
to cognitive impairment, such as memory and concentration issues. Detailed
cognitive testing during and after a seizure may be necessary to identify these
dyscognitive focal seizures.
5. Presence of Focal Interictal
Discharges: The ictal patterns for focal-onset seizures do
not resemble the patient's focal interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs).
This distinction is important for accurate diagnosis.
6. Visibility on EEG:
Ictal patterns are visible on EEG only when a sufficient area of cortex (at
least 10 cm² for temporal lobe seizures) is synchronized. This means that some
focal seizures may not show an ictal pattern on scalp EEG if the seizure
activity is too localized.
7. Differentiation from Artifacts:
Ictal patterns must be distinguished from artifacts, such as muscle activity
(EMG). The evolution of the ictal pattern and the presence of postictal changes
(like slowing or attenuation) can help differentiate true ictal patterns from
artifacts.
8.
Frequency and Amplitude Changes:
The electrographic evolution of a focal-onset seizure commonly includes changes
in frequency and amplitude, which can be an increase or decrease within any of
the normal EEG frequency bands.
These
distinguishing features are essential for clinicians to accurately interpret
EEG recordings and diagnose seizure types effectively.
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