• Circa 50% sensitive for epilepsy (higher in children)
• >99% specific
• Allows classification of seizure condition e.g.
  • Generalised onset (Myoclonic/Absence/Clonic/Tonic), Partial onset (Frontal/Temporal/Occipital/Parietal)
  • Simplex (Maintain consciousness), Complex (Temporal or Frontal, lose of consciousness)
  • Non convulsive status (continuous partial/continuous absence)
• Allows specific aetiological diagnosis in some cases (e.g. HSV encephalitis has v characteristic EEG)