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Your child may also undergo some of the following tests to assist in properly diagnosing neurological disorders.
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High Density scalp EEG
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Single Photon Emission Computerized Tomography (SPECT)
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The tests results provide important information that will help your doctor determine how best to treat your child.
EEG Monitoring
An EEG is a neurophysiologic technique primarily used in the diagnosis or evaluation of epilepsy. It could also be recommended for attention disorders, fainting spells, developmental delay, headaches, or learning problems.
The EEG records ongoing electrical activity generated by the neurons in the brain which is why it is also called a “brain wave” test. Abnormal EEG signals have electrical spikes and waves in the brain that are common in epilepsy even if the child does not show physical signs of having a seizure.
During EEG testing, a process called Evoked Potentials (EPs) might be done. This measures the electrical activity produced by external stimulation such as light flashes or sound clicks.
High Density EEG monitoring (HD EEG)
High density EEG monitoring is similar to EEG monitoring in that it records the electrical activity of the brain. It is done utilizing a cap that has a very large number of scalp electrodes. 128 or 256 electrodes are placed compared to 26 – 28 with regular EEG monitoring. The average monitoring time with HD EEG is approximately one to two hours.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
A MRI provides a detailed, physical picture of the brain. Sometimes, the cause of seizures is associated with a physical abnormality that is visible with a MRI.
This test requires the child to lay still for approximately 45 minutes. Some children may need sedation or sleep medicine to be able to complete this scan. We have a specially trained doctor who will give your child this medicine should they need it.
It is very important that you let us know if your child has any metal objects in their body as this could interfere with the MRI testing process. Metal objects include a VNS (vagal nerve stimulator), Baclofen pumps, pins, or pacemakers.
Click Here for more information about getting an MRI at Le Bonheur.
Magnetoencephalography (MEG)
This is a new type of brain scan that allows doctors to see certain signals from the brain. It can improve the detection of potential sources of seizures by revealing the exact location of the abnormality. It may also be able to confirm brain waves typical of epilepsy in a lesion. It can also helps give important information prior to a surgical procedure. The MEG scan is safe and painless.
Click here for more information about MEG technology for children.
Single Photon Emission Computerized Tomography (SPECT)
The brain SPECT is a diagnostic imaging technique, providing images of blood flow in the brain. This technique is very sensitive and can detect changes in brain blood flow associated with seeing, hearing and thinking. It is used to help localize the region of the brain responsible for seizures, even if the patient has a normal MRI or CT scan.
The scan is done approximately 30 minutes after a radiotracer is given through your child’s IV line. The total scan takes approximately 30 – 45 minutes to complete. Once the testing is completed, your child will be taken back to the EMU.
Neuropsychology Testing
Neuropsychological testing involves a battery of standardized tests given by a neuropsychologist to measure the way the brain functions. These evaluations are often used to detect neurologic diseases or the impact of epilepsy to the brain functioning. The typical evaluation takes 3 –6 hours to perform. There is no invasive procedure involved. After testing is completed, the results will be discussed with your Neurologist who referred you and a report will be prepared and forwarded to your doctor’s office.
Click Here for more information about the Center for Neuropsychology at Le Bonheur.
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