Is Interictal Epileptiform Activity?

Interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), meaning spikes, polyspikes, sharp waves, or spike and slow-wave complexes without observed clinical seizures, are commonly observed in children with epilepsy. Neuropsychological evidence indicates that childhood epilepsy often has negative effects on cognitive function [2].

What causes interictal epileptiform discharges?

The generation of interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) in partial epilepsies is commonly ascribed to enhanced excitatory interactions within glutamatergic neuronal networks.

Is epileptiform an activity?

Background: The term epileptiform discharge typically refers to interictal paroxysmal activity that occurs more commonly during sleep. This type of paroxysmal activity does not include the electroencephalographic (EEG) activity observed during a seizure.