What is the primary clinical use of the EEG in patients?

The primary clinical use of EEG (electroencephalography) in patients is to evaluate seizure disorders. EEG is especially valuable in identifying abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which is a hallmark of epilepsy and other seizure-related conditions. The test records brain waves, allowing healthcare professionals to determine the type of seizure, locate the area of the brain that may be malfunctioning, and guide appropriate treatment options.

While EEG can indeed be utilized in assessing brain injuries, diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases, and monitoring anesthesia, these uses are secondary to its role in seizure characterization and management. EEG is the cornerstone diagnostic tool for evaluating the presence, type, and frequency of seizures, making it indispensable in the assessment of patients with suspected seizure disorders. This specificity to seizure activity highlights the unique and critical application of EEG in clinical practice.