Electroencephalogram (EEG) and Ambulatory Electroencephalogram (AEEG) Diagnostic Tests
The physicians of The Neurology Center at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland use specific tests to diagnose neurological disorders or diseases that affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves in the body. An electroencephalogram, or EEG, can be a primary diagnostic tool for certain neurological disorders including epilepsy, seizures, headaches or strokes.
The Neurology Center at Mercy offers patients two types of EEG tests – Routine EEG and Ambulatory EEG.
What is EEG or Electroencephalogram Test?
An EEG is a non-invasive test performed in an office setting or an inpatient setting. It is used to measure the electrical activity of the brain. The EEG test uses electrodes or small metal discs attached to the scalp of a patient to measure brain activity. During the test, brain activity is transmitted using electrical impulses that appear as wavy lines on the EEG recording device. The test takes 30-60 minutes. EEG can be used to diagnose brain disorders including:
- Epilepsy
- Syncope
- Single seizure
- Cognitive impairment and dementia
- Pseudo seizures
- Intermittent confusion
- Atypical sleep disorders
What is an AEEG or Ambulatory Electroencephalogram?
An AEEG test also is used to measure brain activity and is non-invasive. The AEEG test takes place in the home.
The patient comes to the doctor's office for placement of the electrodes on their scalp (to monitor brain waves) and on their chest (to record the heart rate). The patient leaves the office and the electrodes begin storing data in a small recorder for two to four days to gather information. Following the information-gathering period, the patient returns to the doctor's office, where the information is downloaded so it can be reviewed and interpreted.
The AEEG is recommended only after a routine study and a neurologic evaluation have been performed.
What happens after the EEG Testing?
After the completion of the EEG test, the electrodes will be removed. Your doctor will process the data recorded and interpret the data. A follow up appointment with the doctor will be scheduled to review the findings from the tests.