Video-electroencephalography in diagnosis of neonatal seizures

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the application of video-electroencephalography (video-EEG) in the diagnosis of neonatal seizures and to provide some references for the diagnosis of neonatal seizures. Methods 50 neonates admitted into and undertaking video-EEG at the department of neonates of our hospital from March, 2015 to March, 2016 were collected as study objects. Their clinical data, including gender, age, etiology, attack, and EEG results, were reviewed. Results Among the 50 neonates, 23 had normal EEG and 27 abnormal. The abnormal rates of HIE and intracranial hemorrhage were the highest. In the episode of epilepsy, 15 cases got epilepsy discharge; 7 cases got epilepsy discharge in the interval between the onsets of epilepsy; 3 cases had abnormal background activities and discharge in the interval; and 2 cases had abnormal background. No epileptic discharge was detected in the 39 cases of neonatal seizures, or during or without seizures. Conclusions Video-EEG monitoring is of great value in the diagnosis of neonatal seizures. It is beneficial for early intervention and reducing neurological sequelae. Key words: Seizures; Neonates; Video-electroencephalography