Zeta waves: a special type of slow delta waves

Abstract

A special type of delta waves with a duration of 1–3 sec which, because of their saw-tooth or zed shape in the EEG, we have named ‘zeta waves’ has been described. They occur particularly in cases with rather severe brain lesions, usually with an acute or subacute onset and a space occupying character. In a period of 2 years during which 2500 EEGs have been reported we have seen zeta waves in 20 patients in whom 76 EEGs have been recorded. The characteristics of these waves and the types of lesions with which they occurred are described. The importance of an adequate recording technique for proper presentation of this EEG pattern is emphasized.