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Definition of EEG

By , About.com Guide

Updated February 12, 2009

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Definition: A measurement of the continuous brain-wave patterns, or electrical activity of the brain, as recorded with the placement of small metal discs called electrodes positioned in a standardized pattern on the scalp. The resulting tracing reflects the summation of the activity of millions of individual neurons. The voltage and frequency is interpreted and it is useful for assessing brain death, seizure activity, and for determining stages of sleep.
Pronunciation: Ee-lek-trow-in-sef-uh-low-gram
Also Known As: Electroencephalogram
Examples:
The EEG showed that I have seizures while I sleep.

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