ABRET R.EEG.T Study Guide - Activation Procedures

Why is sleep deprivation considered an activation procedure? correct answer: 24-36 hours of continuous waking time may stress a potentially epileptogenic brain so that abnormalities will appear in the waking EEG What type of epilepsy is most likely to show abnormalities during sleep? correct answer: Patients with complex partial seizures or Foci in the temporal lobes are especially likely to appear in sleep. Sleep should be a routine procedure for patients who have or are suspected of having seizures of any type What is hyperventilation (HV)? correct answer: Deep and rapid breathing usually for a period of 3-4 mins. Used as an activation procedure; especially potent for activating absence seizures What are the clinical effects of hyperventilation? correct answer: HV causes hypocapnia (decreased CO2 in the system). Clinically characterized by cerebral symptoms including dizziness and even loss of consciousness; also by peripheral symptoms such as tingling in the hands, feet, and mouth. Drowsiness. What electrographic changes are seen during hyperventilation (HV)? correct answer: Normal responses consist of generalized bilaterally synchronous slow waves that begin soon after HV; often called a "build-up". Abnormal responses consist of asymmetrical responses and epileptiform discharges. Spike and wave discharges of 3 hz are often activated by HV What are contraindications to HV? correct answer: 1) Acute stroke 2) Recent intracranial hemorrhage