Signs of irritation of the stem structures are recorded. Symptoms of dysfunction of the midline structures of the brain

03.07.2020 -

Dysfunction of the midline structures of the brain can lead to disorders nervous system person. Doctors say that this pathology is a rather dangerous disorder. In general, a term such as “dysfunction” means a violation of a properly occurring process.

Any violations, even the most minimal ones, lead to serious deviations. These may be uncharacteristic behavior, incorrect emotional perception or retardation in intellectual development.

The trunk is the formation responsible for the vital functions and health of the body. It is located in the human brain. Among the most important body systems for which this structure is responsible are:

cardiovascular.
respiratory.
heat exchange.
digestive.

But there are often cases when a person gets injured and suffers harm to health. In this case, the brain or spinal cord may also be damaged, as a result of which it ceases to function normally and correctly. This usually happens due to an accident where an injury occurred or a bruise occurred that resulted in a concussion. Today, there are frequent cases of injury during difficult childbirth.

Disturbances in the functioning of the brain will be clearly expressed clinically or they can be diagnosed through special tests.

Diagnostics

When the therapist just has the first suspicion that a person has disturbances in the functioning of the central system, he immediately refers him to a neurologist, who should:

look for possible changes in the functioning of the brain or spinal cord.
identify lesions or abnormalities in other parts of the nervous system.
make a diagnosis.
indicate treatment.

Based on the neurologist’s conclusion, it will be determined what kind of dysfunction is present in the person, and methods of prescribed treatment will be selected for the fastest possible recovery.

Types of dysfunction

There are several types of pathologies in the functioning of the brain. The division into groups will depend on which department has the dysfunction or the disruption in work as a whole. Among them:

Diencephalic. This structure is responsible for human sleep, as well as appetite. Thanks to her, it is supported normal temperature human body and there are no disturbances in metabolic processes.
Stem. This structure helps regulate basic life processes such as breathing, tone and appetite.
The medians help vegetative processes in the nervous system, and are also responsible for emotional state person.

The normal functioning of all these departments guarantees that a person is healthy and in a normal psycho-emotional state. But if a disorder is observed somewhere, then you need to urgently contact a neurologist so that he can make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Diencephalic dysfunction

First of all, it affects the intermediate parts of the brain, or rather, begins to affect them. When observing such a disorder, a person experiences:

decreased sensitivity in the body.
decrease pain threshold, as well as the development of thalamic pain.
intention tremor.
a quick and causeless change from tears to laughter and vice versa.
endocrine disorders.

This dysfunction is considered one of the most common diseases that characterize neurology. Usually the most prominent representative is vegetative-vascular dystonia. The disease occurs in a third of the population, this is especially common occurrence in women.

Dysfunction is treated with various medications and radiotherapy. IN medicinal purposes Sometimes special diets may be used.

Brainstem dysfunction

Dysfunction of brain stem structures is one of the most dangerous pathologies for human life and health. Since the trunk is responsible for the most important systems in the body, such as the cardiovascular and respiratory, the development of pathologies in these centers can manifest itself as follows:

the vocal cords lose their function and weaken.
difficulty swallowing.
disorders speech apparatus. In this case, difficulty in perceiving speech develops, as well as impairment of writing and reading abilities.

Dysfunction of brain stem structures is diagnosed in the following ways:

Computed tomography allows you to fully examine the affected areas. It is based on x-rays. After the examination, the doctor receives very high quality, which can be used to determine the state of the brain and its structures. CT helps not only to find the source of pathology itself, but also to establish possible reason appearance.
Electroencephalography can monitor the state of the brain as a whole, as well as its proper functioning.

The signs of this dysfunction are reversible and can be removed in a few visits to a specialist. This happens due to the restoration of brain functions, active work which returns after normalization of blood circulation.

Dysfunction of midline brain structures

The work of this department is aimed at the proper functioning of the autonomic nervous system in the human body. Dysfunction of the midline structures of the brain is characterized by disruption of night sleep and a person’s psycho-emotional state. This usually happens due to various types of injuries that occur as a result of a fall, blow, or during rehabilitation after them.

Symptoms of dysfunction of nonspecific midline structures are characterized by the following facts:

decreased sensitivity (this is observed on the face or torso).
decreased sensitivity to pain.
rapidly changing crying or laughing.
rapid puberty.
endocrine disorders.

When diagnosing dysfunctions of the midline structures of the brain and prescribing treatment, the neurologist must take into account the characteristics of conscious and unconscious behavior and human health in order for the therapy to be as effective as possible.

Minimal brain dysfunction in children

The child may also experience brain dysfunction. Most often it manifests as minimal brain dysfunction. This is a very common pathology, and every 5 children can be diagnosed with it. The reasons why brain dysfunction begins to develop in children are as follows:

difficult pregnancy.
difficult and long labor process.
exposure of the child to harmful and toxic substances.
infectious diseases.

Symptoms of dysfunction of the midline structures of the brain in children are quite striking and manifest themselves as follows:

severe headaches that are systematic.
there is excessive activity, as well as hyperexcitability.
There is constant nervousness and irritability.
motor and speech functions are noticeably impaired and slowed down.
retardation in development.
disturbance of attention and memory.
rapid fatigue and fatigue.

When this disease begins to develop, then, accordingly, the symptoms become more pronounced and appear much more intense. Such violations can provoke other, more serious consequences. For example, epilepsy or dangerous nervous disorders.

Foreign doctors practice such treatment as constant monitoring of the child by an osteopath. He must constantly monitor the baby’s condition and monitor whether there are any changes or deterioration in his condition. When dysfunctions of the midline brain structures are detected in early stages you can easily correct the situation and cure the disease without subsequent harmful and negative consequences.

Conclusion

Doctors can diagnose damage to the brain or its individual structures in a person who is admitted to the hospital with a head injury that he received as a result of an accident, bruise or blow, if at the same time he faints or loses consciousness, or the patient begins to choke or has difficulty breathing. circulation.

When a patient comes to medical institution for help, while experiencing symptoms of a disorder of consciousness or convulsive attacks, this means that the person has a disruption in the activity of brain structures and parts. For more correct diagnosis It is best to turn to an EEG. She can see and recognize the first signs of brain stem stimulation.

The doctor must correctly establish the diagnosis and cause of the pathology. To complete the data, the neurologist refers the patient for a detailed examination, which includes MRI and CT. After receiving all the test results, the specialist will be able to prescribe necessary treatment and then monitor the results of therapy.

Brain dysfunction is a serious disorder that has a neuropsychic origin. To be more precise, it appears due to mild damage to the central nervous system.

Nature of the disease

Brain dysfunction can actually be caused by a variety of factors. For example:

Difficult pregnancy;
Difficult childbirth;
Lack of care during infancy;
Infection.

It must be said that it is impossible to see the full picture of violations in full (if the violation is minimal), since it is very diverse and changes with age. The pathology manifests itself most fully by the time the child is supposed to go to school.

In this article, we will talk in more detail about dental restoration (RD), which will help you implement dentistry Kharkov. We are talking about Kharkov dental clinic Dental Union, whose highly professional, experienced doctors provide wide range dental services high quality.

Changes in the body

Dysfunction of brain stem structures often affects appearance child. Are changing facial bones skull, irregular formation of the skeleton can be observed oral cavity, asthenia (tongue muscles) is likely to appear, which leads to impaired speech development. Muscle tone may also be impaired, and pathological reflexes may manifest themselves. If we talk about vegetative reactions, then it should be noted increased sweating, sometimes even drooling.

Children who exhibit minimal dysfunction of the diencephalic structures of the brain are characterized by slight disinhibition in movements and hyperactivity. Their mood often changes. Experts who often work with such children note that they may exhibit immediate short temper, aggression, rage, and anger. But this is already psychological disorders. They should also include social immaturity - children show a desire to communicate with kids who are younger than them. Sleep is also disturbed - it is intermittent, shallow, and at the time when they still manage to fall asleep, children can sometimes cry out.

More severe symptoms

What was listed above is not all that is characteristic of minimal brain dysfunction. Symptoms may also be more severe. If a child goes to school, then he has problems with assimilation of the material - they write illiterately and remember poorly. Spatial orientation is also disrupted. By the way, another important one was not noted psychological factor. This is attention deficit. Those children who are not given enough attention are too impulsive and excitable. Their attention is scattered, they cannot concentrate it on anything. This is typical for hyperactive children.

Hypoactive people have slightly different symptoms. They are lethargic, inhibited, their spatial orientation is not perfect, and speech disturbances can also be observed. It must be said that MMD also manifests itself in adolescence. The child shows a desire to use alcohol or drugs, becomes antisocial, and engages in sexual intercourse too early. They are absent-minded, their autonomic nervous system is unstable. It is also worth mentioning that in the majority of children (about 70%) MMD occurs with minimal medical intervention.

Rare cases

There are even children in whom MMD manifests itself in the underdevelopment of the so-called higher cortical functions. And this is accompanied by unusual things. For example, they write in a mirror manner, they do not recognize sides, they confuse right and left, and they have short-term verbal memory. And the sad thing is that only a third of such children have a positive prognosis for the development of the disease. There are frequent cases when MMD is accompanied by the development of enuresis.

But this manifestation usually stops by the age of five - if intensive treatment is carried out. If this does not happen, then more serious consequences will appear, and specialists of a different profile will have to intervene. In general, MMD is terrible disease, and if it so happens that the child is sick with it, then it is necessary to immediately begin treatment.

People with brainstem dysfunction, as measured by ABR (auditory brainstem response, see chapter "Biological Basis of Autism"), usually have some structural abnormality of the brainstem. These disturbances usually lead to longer transmission of impulses in this ("low") area of the brain. Auditory impulses are usually delayed by 15-20% or more. This most likely leads to a disorder in normal (fast) coding. spoken language, which requires rapid transmission, the transmission of nerve impulses, through the brain stem for effective decoding (understanding) of speech on the part of the interlocutor.

Thus, individuals with autism who have low ABR scores (with longer subcortical transmission times) may need people speaking to them at a slower rate and using only a few words at a time in order to could better understand spoken language.

In addition, our many years of experience have shown that people with autism and those with brainstem dysfunction (as measured by the ABR study or other tests such as the post-mechanical "nystagmus" test) do not tolerate music (or certain types of music) very well. music) compared to those without brainstem dysfunction. This is important because it is widely believed that all people with autism love music. This is definitely not true. ABR type studies can sometimes serve to identify those who suffer from excessive exposure to music. (In this case, this, of course, does not mean that music is not perceived by many people with autism and diseases of this spectrum).

Many autistic people have mild hypotonia because their overall muscle tone is low, and as a result they may appear sluggish and clumsy. Brainstem dysfunction (and cerebellar dysfunction) may be the cause of this hypotension.

Cerebellar dysfunction

Several studies suggest that cerebellar dysfunction exists in many cases of autism spectrum disorder and may account for the clumsiness that is often present. It was previously assumed that autism was somewhat associated with good motor skills. Systematic research has refuted this assumption, as many people with autism have some degree of motor clumsiness. This may be more pronounced in Asperger's syndrome. The inability to coordinate movements of different parts of the body at the same time, medium motor skills, and the slightly shaky and unsteady gait (and a lot of impatientness) found in many young children with autism and Asperger's syndrome are all reflections of impaired cerebellar function." Awkward body language during social interactions can also be caused by cerebellar dysfunction.

Self harm

Many people with autism physically harm themselves. They hit themselves or hit their heads on walls, floors, or windows. A group of people with autism and severe mental retardation, has the most severe problems in this area. These are the people who have the greatest difficulty communicating (verbal and non-verbal) with other people. It is always important to consider the possibility of an underlying physical disorder in such cases, especially when such symptoms appear for the first time in people who have not previously had such symptoms. A broken jaw or limb bone, middle ear infection, pneumonia, or appendicitis can cause such pain that a person with autism is unable to communicate or express himself in any way other than through self-harm. Sometimes needles, razor blades, or plants entering the stomach can cause severe intestinal disorders that will only be expressed through causing more damage to oneself. Thus, in cases where such behavior occurs, a medical examination should be carried out.

Thank you

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

The activity of the brain, the state of its anatomical structures, the presence of pathologies are studied and recorded using various methods– electroencephalography, rheoencephalography, computed tomography, etc. Huge role in identifying various deviations in the functioning of brain structures belongs to the methods of studying it electrical activity, in particular electroencephalography.

Electroencephalogram of the brain - definition and essence of the method

Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a recording of the electrical activity of neurons in various brain structures, which is made on special paper using electrodes. Electrodes are placed on different parts of the head and record the activity of a particular part of the brain. We can say that an electroencephalogram is a recording of the functional activity of the brain of a person of any age.

The functional activity of the human brain depends on the activity of the median structures - reticular formation And forebrain, which determine the rhythm, general structure and dynamics of the electroencephalogram. Large quantity connections of the reticular formation and forebrain with other structures and the cortex determine the symmetry of the EEG, and its relative “sameness” for the entire brain.

An EEG is taken to determine the activity of the brain in case of various lesions of the central nervous system, for example, with neuroinfections (poliomyelitis, etc.), meningitis, encephalitis, etc. Based on the EEG results, the degree of brain damage due to various reasons, and clarify the specific location that was damaged.

The EEG is taken according to a standard protocol, which takes into account recordings in a state of wakefulness or sleep (infants), with special tests. Routine tests for EEG are:
1. Photostimulation (exposure to flashes bright light with your eyes closed).
2. Opening and closing eyes.
3. Hyperventilation (rare and deep breathing within 3 – 5 minutes).

These tests are performed on all adults and children when taking an EEG, regardless of age and pathology. In addition, additional tests may be used when taking an EEG, for example:

clenching your fingers into a fist;
sleep deprivation test;
stay in the dark for 40 minutes;
monitoring the entire period of night sleep;
taking medications;
performing psychological tests.

Additional tests for EEG are determined by a neurologist who wants to evaluate certain functions of a person's brain.

What does an electroencephalogram show?

The electroencephalogram reflects functional state brain structures with various states person, such as sleep, wakefulness, active mental or physical work etc. The electroencephalogram is absolutely safe method, simple, painless and not requiring serious intervention.

Today, the electroencephalogram is widely used in the practice of neurologists, since this method allows for the diagnosis of epilepsy, vascular, inflammatory and degenerative brain lesions. In addition, EEG helps to determine the specific location of tumors, cysts and traumatic damage to brain structures.

An electroencephalogram with irritation of the patient by light or sound makes it possible to distinguish true visual and hearing impairments from hysterical ones, or their simulation. EEG is used in intensive care units for dynamic monitoring of the condition of patients in a coma. The disappearance of signs of electrical activity of the brain on the EEG is a sign of human death.

Where and how to do it?

An electroencephalogram for an adult can be taken in neurological clinics, in departments of city and district hospitals or at a psychiatric clinic. As a rule, electroencephalograms are not taken in clinics, but there are exceptions to the rule. It's better to contact psychiatric hospital or the neurology department, where specialists with the necessary qualifications work.

Electroencephalograms for children under 14 years of age are taken only in specialized children's hospitals where pediatricians work. That is, you need to go to the children's hospital, find the neurology department and ask when the EEG is taken. Psychiatric clinics, as a rule, do not take EEGs for young children.

In addition, private medical centers, specializing in diagnostics and treatment of neurological pathology, also provide EEG services for both children and adults. You can contact a multidisciplinary private clinic, where there are neurologists who will take an EEG and decipher the recording.

An electroencephalogram should be taken only after a full night's rest, in the absence of stressful situations And psychomotor agitation. Two days before the EEG is taken, it is necessary to exclude alcoholic drinks, sleeping pills, sedatives And anticonvulsants, tranquilizers and caffeine.

Electroencephalogram for children: how the procedure is performed

Taking an electroencephalogram in children often raises questions from parents who want to know what awaits the baby and how the procedure goes. The child is left in a dark, sound- and light-proof room, where he is placed on a couch. Children under 1 year of age are kept in their mother's arms during EEG recording. The whole procedure takes about 20 minutes.

To record an EEG, a cap is placed on the baby's head, under which the doctor places electrodes. The skin under the electrodes is wetted with water or gel. Two inactive electrodes are placed on the ears. Then, using alligator clips, the electrodes are connected to the wires connected to the device - the encephalograph. Since electric currents are very small, then an amplifier is always necessary, otherwise brain activity will simply be impossible to register. It is the small current strength that is the key to the absolute safety and harmlessness of EEG, even for infants.

To begin the examination, the child's head should be placed flat. Anterior tilt should not be allowed as this may cause artifacts that will be misinterpreted. EEGs are taken for infants during sleep, which occurs after feeding. Wash your child's hair before taking the EEG. Do not feed the baby before leaving the house; this is done immediately before the test so that the baby eats and falls asleep - after all, it is at this time that the EEG is taken. To do this, prepare formula or express breast milk into a bottle that you use in the hospital. Up to 3 years of age, EEG is taken only in a state of sleep. Children over 3 years old can stay awake, but to keep your baby calm, take a toy, book, or anything else that will distract the child. The child should be calm during the EEG.

Typically, the EEG is recorded as a background curve, and tests with opening and closing the eyes, hyperventilation (slow and deep breathing), and photostimulation are also performed. These tests are part of the EEG protocol, and are performed on absolutely everyone - both adults and children. Sometimes they ask you to clench your fingers into a fist, listen to various sounds, etc. Opening the eyes allows us to assess the activity of inhibition processes, and closing them allows us to assess the activity of excitation. Hyperventilation can be carried out in children after 3 years of age in the form of a game - for example, asking the child to inflate a balloon. Such rare and deep inhalations and exhalations last for 2–3 minutes. This test allows you to diagnose latent epilepsy, inflammation of the structures and membranes of the brain, tumors, dysfunction, fatigue and stress. Photostimulation is carried out with the eyes closed and the light blinking. The test allows you to assess the degree of mental, physical, speech and mental development child, as well as the presence of foci of epileptic activity.

Electroencephalogram rhythms

There should be a regular rhythm on the electroencephalogram certain type. The regularity of rhythms is ensured by the work of the part of the brain - the thalamus, which generates them and ensures the synchronization of the activity and functional activity of all structures of the central nervous system.

The human EEG contains alpha, beta, delta and theta rhythms, which have various characteristics and reflect certain types brain activity.

Alpha rhythm has a frequency of 8 – 14 Hz, reflects a state of rest and is recorded in a person who is awake, but with his eyes closed. This rhythm is normally regular, the maximum intensity is recorded in the region of the back of the head and the crown. The alpha rhythm ceases to be detected when any motor stimuli appear.

Beta rhythm has a frequency of 13 – 30 Hz, but reflects the state of anxiety, restlessness, depression and the use of sedative medications. The beta rhythm is recorded with maximum intensity over the frontal lobes of the brain.

Theta rhythm has a frequency of 4–7 Hz and an amplitude of 25–35 μV, reflecting the state of natural sleep. This rhythm is a normal component of the adult EEG. And in children this type of rhythm on the EEG predominates.

Delta rhythm has a frequency of 0.5 - 3 Hz, it reflects the state of natural sleep. It can also be recorded in a limited amount during wakefulness, a maximum of 15% of all EEG rhythms. The amplitude of the delta rhythm is normally low - up to 40 μV. If there is an excess of amplitude above 40 μV, and this rhythm is recorded for more than 15% of the time, then it is classified as pathological. Such a pathological delta rhythm indicates a dysfunction of the brain, and it appears precisely over the area where pathological changes develop. The appearance of a delta rhythm in all parts of the brain indicates the development of damage to the structures of the central nervous system, which is caused by liver dysfunction, and is proportional to the severity of the disturbance of consciousness.

Electroencephalogram results

The result of the electroencephalogram is a recording on paper or in computer memory. The curves are recorded on paper and analyzed by the doctor. The rhythm of EEG waves, frequency and amplitude are assessed, characteristic elements are identified, and their distribution in space and time is recorded. Then all data is summarized and reflected in the conclusion and description of the EEG, which is pasted into medical card. The EEG conclusion is based on the type of curves, taking into account the clinical symptoms present in a person.

Such a conclusion must reflect the main characteristics of the EEG, and includes three mandatory parts:
1. Description of the activity and typical affiliation of EEG waves (for example: “The alpha rhythm is recorded over both hemispheres. The average amplitude is 57 μV on the left and 59 μV on the right. The dominant frequency is 8.7 Hz. The alpha rhythm dominates in the occipital leads.”).
2. Conclusion according to the description of the EEG and its interpretation (for example: “Signs of irritation of the cortex and midline structures of the brain. Asymmetry between the hemispheres of the brain and paroxysmal activity were not detected”).
3. Determination of Compliance clinical symptoms with EEG results (for example: “Objective changes in the functional activity of the brain were recorded, corresponding to manifestations of epilepsy”).

Decoding the electroencephalogram

Decoding an electroencephalogram is the process of interpreting it taking into account the clinical symptoms present in the patient. In the process of decoding, it is necessary to take into account the basal rhythm, the level of symmetry in the electrical activity of brain neurons of the left and right hemispheres, the activity of the commissure, EEG changes against the background of functional tests (opening - closing the eyes, hyperventilation, photostimulation). The final diagnosis is made only taking into account the presence of certain clinical signs that are disturbing the patient.

Decoding the electroencephalogram involves interpreting the conclusion. Let's consider the basic concepts that the doctor reflects in the conclusion, and their clinical significance(that is, what these or those parameters can indicate).

Alpha - rhythm

Normally, its frequency is 8–13 Hz, the amplitude ranges up to 100 μV. It is this rhythm that should prevail over both hemispheres in adults healthy people. Alpha rhythm pathologies are the following:

constant recording of the alpha rhythm in the frontal parts of the brain;
interhemispheric asymmetry above 30%;
violation of sinusoidal waves;
paroxysmal or arc-shaped rhythm;
unstable frequency;
amplitude less than 20 μV or more than 90 μV;
rhythm index less than 50%.

What do common alpha rhythm disturbances indicate?
Severe interhemispheric asymmetry may indicate the presence of a brain tumor, cyst, stroke, heart attack or scar at the site of an old hemorrhage.

High frequency and instability of the alpha rhythm indicate traumatic brain damage, for example, after a concussion or traumatic brain injury.

Disorganization of the alpha rhythm or its complete absence speaks of acquired dementia.

About delayed psycho-motor development in children they say:

alpha rhythm disorganization;
increased synchrony and amplitude;
moving the focus of activity from the back of the head and crown;
weak short activation reaction;
excessive response to hyperventilation.

A decrease in the amplitude of the alpha rhythm, a shift in the focus of activity from the back of the head and crown, and a weak activation reaction indicate the presence of psychopathology.

Excitable psychopathy is manifested by a slowdown in the frequency of the alpha rhythm against the background of normal synchrony.

Inhibitory psychopathy is manifested by EEG desynchronization, low frequency and alpha rhythm index.

Increased synchronization of the alpha rhythm in all parts of the brain, a short activation reaction - the first type of neuroses.

Weak expression of the alpha rhythm, weak activation reactions, paroxysmal activity - the third type of neuroses.

Beta rhythm

Normally, it is most pronounced in the frontal lobes of the brain and has a symmetrical amplitude (3–5 μV) in both hemispheres. Pathology of the beta rhythm is the following signs:

paroxysmal discharges;
low frequency, distributed over the convexital surface of the brain;
asymmetry between hemispheres in amplitude (above 50%);
sinusoidal type of beta rhythm;
amplitude more than 7 μV.

What do beta rhythm disturbances on the EEG indicate?
The presence of diffuse beta waves with an amplitude no higher than 50-60 μV indicates a concussion.

Short spindles in the beta rhythm indicate encephalitis. The more severe the inflammation of the brain, the greater the frequency, duration and amplitude of such spindles. Observed in a third of patients with herpes encephalitis.

Beta waves with a frequency of 16 - 18 Hz and high amplitude (30 - 40 μV) in the anterior and central departments brain - signs of delayed psychomotor development of a child.

EEG desynchronization, in which the beta rhythm predominates in all parts of the brain, is the second type of neurosis.

Theta rhythm and delta rhythm

Normally, these slow waves can only be recorded on the electroencephalogram of a sleeping person. In a state of wakefulness, such slow waves appear on the EEG only in the presence of degenerative processes in the tissues of the brain, which are combined with compression, high blood pressure and lethargy. Paroxysmal theta and delta waves in a person in a state of wakefulness are detected when the deep parts of the brain are damaged.

In children and young people under 21 years of age, the electroencephalogram may reveal diffuse theta and delta rhythms, paroxysmal discharges and epileptoid activity, which are a normal variant and do not indicate pathological changes in brain structures.

What do disturbances of theta and delta rhythms on the EEG indicate?
Delta waves with high amplitude indicate the presence of a tumor.

Synchronous theta rhythm, delta waves in all parts of the brain, bursts of bilateral synchronous theta waves with high amplitude, paroxysms in the central parts of the brain - indicate acquired dementia.

The predominance of theta and delta waves on the EEG with maximum activity in the occipital region, flashes of bilateral synchronous waves, the number of which increases with hyperventilation, indicates a delay psychomotor development child.

A high index of theta activity in the central parts of the brain, bilateral synchronous theta activity with a frequency of 5 to 7 Hz, localized in the frontal or temporal regions of the brain indicate psychopathy.

Theta rhythms in the anterior parts of the brain as the main ones are an excitable type of psychopathy.

Paroxysms of theta and delta waves are the third type of neuroses.

The appearance of high-frequency rhythms (for example, beta-1, beta-2 and gamma) indicates irritation (irritation) of brain structures. This may be due to various disorders cerebral circulation, intracranial pressure, migraines, etc.

Bioelectric activity of the brain (BEA)

This parameter in the EEG conclusion is a complex descriptive characteristic regarding brain rhythms. Normally, the bioelectrical activity of the brain should be rhythmic, synchronous, without foci of paroxysms, etc. IN EEG conclusion the doctor usually writes what kind of disturbances in the bioelectrical activity of the brain were identified (for example, desynchronized, etc.).

What are they talking about various disorders bioelectric activity of the brain?
Relatively rhythmic bioelectrical activity with foci of paroxysmal activity in any area of the brain indicates the presence of a certain area in its tissue where excitation processes exceed inhibition. This type of EEG may indicate the presence of migraines and headaches.

Diffuse changes in the bioelectrical activity of the brain may be normal if no other abnormalities are detected. Thus, if the conclusion only writes about diffuse or moderate changes bioelectric activity of the brain, without paroxysms, foci of pathological activity, or without a decrease in the threshold of convulsive activity, then this is a variant of the norm. In this case, the neurologist will prescribe symptomatic treatment and place the patient under observation. However, in combination with paroxysms or foci of pathological activity, they speak of the presence of epilepsy or a tendency to seizures. Reduced bioelectrical activity of the brain can be detected in depression.

Other indicators

Dysfunction of midbrain structures – this is a mildly expressed disturbance in the activity of brain neurons, which is often found in healthy people, and indicates functional changes after stress, etc. This condition requires only a symptomatic course of therapy.

Interhemispheric asymmetry may be a functional disorder, that is, not indicate pathology. In this case, it is necessary to undergo examination by a neurologist and a course of symptomatic therapy.

Diffuse disorganization of the alpha rhythm, activation of diencephalic-stem structures of the brain against the background of tests (hyperventilation, closing-opening of eyes, photostimulation) is the norm, if the patient has no complaints.

Center of pathological activity indicates increased excitability of this area, which indicates a tendency to seizures or the presence of epilepsy.

Irritation of various brain structures (cortex, middle sections, etc.) is most often associated with impaired cerebral circulation due to various reasons (for example, atherosclerosis, trauma, increased intracranial pressure, etc.).

Paroxysms They talk about increased excitation and decreased inhibition, which is often accompanied by migraines and simple headaches. In addition, there may be a tendency to develop epilepsy or the presence of this pathology if a person has had seizures in the past.

Reducing the threshold for seizure activity indicates a predisposition to seizures.

The following signs indicate the presence of increased excitability and a tendency to convulsions:

changes in electrical potentials of the brain according to the residual-irritative type;
enhanced synchronization;
pathological activity of the midline structures of the brain;
paroxysmal activity.

In general, residual changes in brain structures are consequences of damage of various nature, for example, after injury, hypoxia, viral or bacterial infection. Residual changes are present in all brain tissues and are therefore diffuse. Such changes disrupt the normal passage of nerve impulses.

Irritation of the cerebral cortex along the convexial surface of the brain, increased activity of the median structures at rest and during tests can be observed after traumatic brain injuries, with a predominance of excitation over inhibition, as well as with organic pathology of brain tissue (for example, tumors, cysts, scars, etc.).

Epileptiform activity indicates the development of epilepsy and an increased tendency to seizures.

Increased tone of synchronizing structures and moderate dysrhythmia are not pronounced violations and brain pathology. In this case, resort to symptomatic treatment.

Signs of neurophysiological immaturity may indicate a delay in the child’s psychomotor development.

Pronounced changes in residual organic type with increasing disorganization against the background of tests, paroxysms in all parts of the brain - these signs usually accompany severe headaches, increased intracranial pressure, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.

Disturbance of brain wave activity (appearance of beta activity in all parts of the brain, dysfunction of midline structures, theta waves) occurs after traumatic injuries, and can manifest itself as dizziness, loss of consciousness, etc.

Organic changes in brain structures in children are a consequence infectious diseases, such as cytomegalovirus or toxoplasmosis, or hypoxic disorders that arose during childbirth. Necessary comprehensive examination and treatment.

Regulatory cerebral changes are registered in hypertension.

The presence of active discharges in any part of the brain , which intensify under load, means that in response to physical stress a reaction may develop in the form of loss of consciousness, visual impairment, hearing loss, etc. A specific reaction to physical activity depends on the location of the source of active discharges. In this case physical activity must be limited to reasonable limits.

In case of brain tumors, the following are detected:

the appearance of slow waves (theta and delta);
bilateral synchronous disorders;
epileptoid activity.

Changes progress as the volume of education increases.

Desynchronization of rhythms, flattening of the EEG curve develops in cerebrovascular pathologies. A stroke is accompanied by the development of theta and delta rhythms. The degree of electroencephalogram abnormalities correlates with the severity of the pathology and the stage of its development.

Theta and delta waves in all parts of the brain; in some areas, beta rhythms are formed during injury (for example, with a concussion, loss of consciousness, bruise, hematoma). The appearance of epileptoid activity against the background of brain injury can lead to the development of epilepsy in the future.

Significant slowing of alpha rhythm may accompany parkinsonism. Fixation of theta and delta waves in the frontal and anterior temporal parts of the brain, which have different rhythms, low frequencies and high amplitudes, is possible in Alzheimer's disease

Thank you

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

The activity of the brain, the state of its anatomical structures, the presence of pathologies are studied and recorded using various methods - electroencephalography, rheoencephalography, computed tomography, etc. A huge role in identifying various abnormalities in the functioning of brain structures belongs to methods of studying its electrical activity, in particular electroencephalography.

Electroencephalogram of the brain - definition and essence of the method

The functional activity of the human brain depends on the activity of the median structures - reticular formation And forebrain, which determine the rhythm, general structure and dynamics of the electroencephalogram. A large number of connections of the reticular formation and forebrain with other structures and the cortex determine the symmetry of the EEG, and its relative “sameness” for the entire brain.

An EEG is taken to determine the activity of the brain in case of various lesions of the central nervous system, for example, with neuroinfections (poliomyelitis, etc.), meningitis, encephalitis, etc. Based on the results of the EEG, it is possible to assess the degree of brain damage due to various causes, and clarify specific location that has been damaged.

The EEG is taken according to a standard protocol, which takes into account recordings in a state of wakefulness or sleep (infants), with special tests. Routine tests for EEG are:
1. Photostimulation (exposure to flashes of bright light on closed eyes).
2. Opening and closing eyes.
3. Hyperventilation (rare and deep breathing for 3 to 5 minutes).

These tests are performed on all adults and children when taking an EEG, regardless of age and pathology. In addition, additional tests may be used when taking an EEG, for example:

clenching your fingers into a fist;
sleep deprivation test;
stay in the dark for 40 minutes;
monitoring the entire period of night sleep;
taking medications;
performing psychological tests.

Additional tests for EEG are determined by a neurologist who wants to evaluate certain functions of a person's brain.

What does an electroencephalogram show?

An electroencephalogram reflects the functional state of brain structures in various human states, for example, sleep, wakefulness, active mental or physical work, etc. An electroencephalogram is an absolutely safe method, simple, painless and does not require serious intervention.

Today, the electroencephalogram is widely used in the practice of neurologists, since this method allows the diagnosis of epilepsy, vascular, inflammatory and degenerative lesions of the brain. In addition, EEG helps to determine the specific location of tumors, cysts and traumatic damage to brain structures.

Where and how to do it?

An electroencephalogram for an adult can be taken in neurological clinics, in departments of city and regional hospitals, or at a psychiatric clinic. As a rule, electroencephalograms are not taken in clinics, but there are exceptions to the rule. It is better to go to a psychiatric hospital or neurology department, where specialists with the necessary qualifications work.

In addition, private medical centers specializing in diagnostics and treatment of neurological pathology, also provide EEG services for both children and adults. You can contact a multidisciplinary private clinic, where there are neurologists who will take an EEG and decipher the recording.

An electroencephalogram should be taken only after a full night's rest, in the absence of stressful situations and psychomotor agitation. Two days before the EEG is taken, it is necessary to exclude alcoholic beverages, sleeping pills, sedatives and anticonvulsants, tranquilizers and caffeine.

Electroencephalogram for children: how the procedure is performed

To record an EEG, a cap is placed on the baby's head, under which the doctor places electrodes. The skin under the electrodes is wetted with water or gel. Two inactive electrodes are placed on the ears. Then, using alligator clips, the electrodes are connected to the wires connected to the device - the encephalograph. Since electrical currents are very small, an amplifier is always needed, otherwise brain activity will simply not be recorded. It is the small current strength that is the key to the absolute safety and harmlessness of EEG, even for infants.

Typically, the EEG is recorded as a background curve, and tests with opening and closing the eyes, hyperventilation (slow and deep breathing), and photostimulation are also performed. These tests are part of the EEG protocol, and are performed on absolutely everyone - both adults and children. Sometimes they ask you to clench your fingers into a fist, listen to various sounds, etc. Opening the eyes allows us to assess the activity of inhibition processes, and closing them allows us to assess the activity of excitation. Hyperventilation can be carried out in children after 3 years of age in the form of a game - for example, asking the child to inflate a balloon. Such rare and deep inhalations and exhalations last for 2–3 minutes. This test allows you to diagnose latent epilepsy, inflammation of the structures and membranes of the brain, tumors, dysfunction, fatigue and stress. Photostimulation is carried out with the eyes closed and the light blinking. The test allows you to assess the degree of delay in the child’s mental, physical, speech and mental development, as well as the presence of foci of epileptic activity.

Electroencephalogram rhythms

The electroencephalogram must show a regular rhythm of a certain type. The regularity of rhythms is ensured by the work of the part of the brain - the thalamus, which generates them and ensures the synchronization of the activity and functional activity of all structures of the central nervous system.

The human EEG contains alpha, beta, delta and theta rhythms, which have different characteristics and reflect certain types of brain activity.

Electroencephalogram results

The result of the electroencephalogram is a recording on paper or in computer memory. The curves are recorded on paper and analyzed by the doctor. The rhythm of EEG waves, frequency and amplitude are assessed, characteristic elements are identified, and their distribution in space and time is recorded. Then all the data is summarized and reflected in the conclusion and description of the EEG, which is pasted into the medical record. The EEG conclusion is based on the type of curves, taking into account the clinical symptoms present in a person.

Such a conclusion must reflect the main characteristics of the EEG, and includes three mandatory parts:
1. Description of the activity and typical affiliation of EEG waves (for example: “The alpha rhythm is recorded over both hemispheres. The average amplitude is 57 μV on the left and 59 μV on the right. The dominant frequency is 8.7 Hz. The alpha rhythm dominates in the occipital leads.”).
2. Conclusion according to the description of the EEG and its interpretation (for example: “Signs of irritation of the cortex and midline structures of the brain. Asymmetry between the hemispheres of the brain and paroxysmal activity were not detected”).
3. Determining the correspondence of clinical symptoms with EEG results (for example: “Objective changes in the functional activity of the brain were recorded, corresponding to manifestations of epilepsy”).

Decoding the electroencephalogram

Decoding the electroencephalogram involves interpreting the conclusion. Let's consider the basic concepts that the doctor reflects in the conclusion and their clinical significance (that is, what these or those parameters can indicate).