The utility of ambulatory electroencephalography in routine clinical practice: a critical review

Abstract

Over the last four decades, ambulatory electroencephalography (EEG) has evolved to be a useful tool in the diagnosis of epilepsy and certain nonepileptic paroxysmal disorders. Most of the initial technological drawbacks of ambulatory EEG have been circumvented by incorporating digital and computer technology. It appears superior to routine EEG in capturing interictal abnormalities particularly in relation to natural sleep, circadian variations and the patient's typical daily lifestyle. The role of ambulatory EEG in studying seizures and nonepileptic paroxysmal events remains to be defined by targeted research. It perhaps is an underutilized tool and more research is needed to expand the horizon of ambulatory EEG applications in clinical practice.