Magnetoencephalography in epilepsy

Epilepsia. 2004:45 Suppl 4:61-71. doi: 10.1111/j.0013-9580.2004.04012.x.

Abstract

Magnetoencephalography (MEG)-also known as magnetic source imaging when combined with magnetic resonance imaging-has developed to the point that it has now entered routine clinical application. Epilepsy MEG studies show that it can accurately localize spike sources--both ictal and interictal--as compared to both direct (intracranial EEG) and indirect (imaging abnormalities) measures. Challenges remain with difficulties in detecting complex or deep sources when recording spontaneous cerebral activity. Magnetoencephalography not only provides a novel tool to localize and characterize epileptiform disturbances, it also has an important role in determining the significance of abnormalities seen on both structural and functional imaging. Combined with mapping of normal or eloquent brain function, MEG should ultimately play a major role in the totally noninvasive epilepsy surgery evaluation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / physiopathology*
  • Brain / surgery
  • Brain Mapping / methods
  • Electrodes, Implanted
  • Electroencephalography / methods
  • Electroencephalography / statistics & numerical data
  • Epilepsy / diagnosis*
  • Epilepsy / physiopathology
  • Epilepsy / surgery
  • Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe / diagnosis
  • Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe / physiopathology
  • Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe / surgery
  • Equipment Design
  • Humans
  • Magnetoencephalography / instrumentation
  • Magnetoencephalography / methods*
  • Magnetoencephalography / statistics & numerical data
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnosis
  • Postoperative Complications / physiopathology
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery
  • Preoperative Care
  • Reoperation
  • Temporal Lobe / physiopathology
  • Temporal Lobe / surgery