How to Read an EEG

Book excerpt: The EEG is a simple and widely available neurophysiological test that, if interpreted correctly, can provide valuable insight into the functioning of the brain. However, despite its increasing usage in a range of settings, there is a common misconception that the EEG is inherently difficult to interpret. Compounding the problem is the lack of dedicated training and no standardized approach by encephalographers. This book provides a clear and concise guide to reading and interpreting EEGs in a systematic way. Presented in three sections, the first delivers foundational technical knowledge of how EEGs work, and the second concentrates on a comprehensive, stepwise approach to reading and interpreting an EEG. The third section contains examples of EEGs in common scenarios, such as seizures and post-cardiac arrest, enabling readers to correlate their findings to clinical indications. Heavily illustrated with over 200 example EEGs, this is an essential pocket guide to interpreting these tests.