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Electroencephalogram (EEG)

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a procedure that measures the electrical impulses in the brain. An EEG is done by placing small sensors (electrodes) on a person's scalp to detect the electrical impulses moving through the brain.

An EEG is often used to help determine the presence and cause of seizures. The amount and pattern of electrical activity is important in diagnosing seizure disorders.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Last Revised July 26, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: July 26, 2010
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