Assessing the Utility of Electroencephalography for Staring Episodes in Children with Autism

Ir Med J. 2020 Mar 13;113(3):37.

Abstract

Aim We aim to assess whether electroencephalography (EEG) has a justified role in assessing staring episodes in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); investigating for possible diagnosis of epilepsy. Methods This is a retrospective study on an Irish paediatric cohort. We reviewed EEG studies performed on children with ASD referred specifically for staring episodes to Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street between 2010 and 2017. Results There are 120 EEG tests; labelled as follows: 59.1%: normal, 22.5%: abnormal, 16.6%: borderline and 1.6%: 'limited study'. Background abnormalities are seen in 22.5% and interictal epileptiform abnormalities are seen in 16.6%. Absence seizures are captured in none. Conclusions Interictal EEG in ASD patients often yields false positive findings. EEG for investigating staring episodes in children with ASD are probably not useful.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Autistic Disorder / complications*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Electroencephalography / methods*
  • Epilepsy / diagnosis*
  • Epilepsy / etiology
  • False Positive Reactions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies