Epilepsy - Diagnosis

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Polysomnography

Some researchers recommend polysomnography for certain patients. This test is used to detect sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, that can be associated with epilepsy.

Investigative Diagnostic Procedures

Low brain levels of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) are associated with an increased risk of seizure recurrence. Some researchers suggest that measuring GABA levels, along with EEG recordings, could help better assess the risk of recurring seizures, and may identify which patients might benefit from GABA-stimulating drugs.

Review Date: 11/15/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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