Atlas of Electroencephalography - Volume 3 - Neurology and Critical Care

The third volume of the series of Atlases deals with the use and usefulness of
electroencephalography (EEG) in neurology.

While EEG is universally recognized as a first-order investigation method in
epilepsy (see Volume 2), and as an important contributor in sleep medicine,
practical neurology has tended to neglect the value of this classical and
established neurophysiological tool. A rich, extensively commented and
analyzed collection of EEG plates is presented here.

The reader will be compelled to remember that EEG is the easiest way to assess
parameters like state of vigilance, risk of seizure activity, type and degree
of functional impairment, in a very clinical and practical setting. The
authors cover many aspects of neurological practices where the EEG may help in
diagnosis and treatment: metabolic and other encephalopathies, infectious and
inflammatory conditions, vascular disorders. It is particularly useful -and
difficult- to distinguish between epileptic phenomena and EEG changes
associated with metabolic abnormalities: a careful assessment of the EEG is of
paramount practical importance here. Migraine is not always simple and there
are many overlaps with other types of neurological diseases: the EEG may play
a major part in helping the clinician in doubtful cases. Similarly, the
diagnosis of dementia does certainly not rest on the EEG but many particular
aspects concerning diagnostic overlaps or copathologies are aptly explored by
the EEG. Lastly, even the neurosurgeon may need the EEG to monitor trauma,
tumor, bleeding...

This Atlas will provide both examples and guidelines for the optimal use of
the EEG in neurology.