What Are the Diagnostic Procedures for Seizures?

A seizure occurs when part of the brain receives a spontaneous burst of abnormal electrical signals, temporarily disrupting normal electrical brain function. There are varying degrees of seizures, depending on the type. Convulsions, brief periods of staring, stiffening of the body, or altered consciousness are only a few signs of a seizure. Various types of seizures have different symptoms, causes and treatments. Your doctor will use a number of procedures to aid in diagnosis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) produces detailed images of the body, in this case the brain, by utilizing large magnets, radio frequencies and a computer. It is ideal for diagnosing seizures, discovering what abnormalities exist, and where they are located. This procedure is extremely useful for identifying groups of brain cells that are either in the wrong place (dysgenesis) or damaged or scarred (sclerotic). MRI can be applied on both male and female, and both adults and children. A person must lay in the tunnel-like machine while remaining completely still. The procedure can last 15 to 30 minutes. When this may cause anxiety, the physician uses sedation.

Electroencephalograph

• Electroencephalography (EEG) records the continuous electrical activity of the brain, translating it into wavy lines. Normal electrical activity produces a recognizable pattern, while any abnormal activity produces an irregular pattern. EEG is painless and safe and uses electrodes applied to the head and scalp. It may help locate the affected brain area.

Computerized Tomography Scan

• Computerized tomography (CT or CAT) is a non-invasive procedure that uses low-dose X-rays and computer technology to produce a cross-sectional image. CT scans are more detailed than a regular X-ray. This scan helps detect the cause of the seizure and whether or not surgery will be needed. Most likely, you will not be able to eat or drink anything for several hours prior to the scan, and you may have to ingest a contrast material. CT scans are similar to the MRI; you will lie in a short tunnel while X-ray beams rotate around it. You will need to remain still for up to 30 minutes.

Lumbar Puncture

• In lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, a specialized needle is inserted into the lower back. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is then extracted and measured. You will be asked to lie on your side in the fetal position. Numbing medication is injected first, then the specialized needle. Three or four vials of CSF will be collected, so it may take several minutes.