Dynamic analysis of fMRI activation during epileptic spikes can help identify the seizure origin

Abstract

Objective: We use the dynamic electroencephalography–functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG-fMRI) method to incorporate variability in the amplitude and field of the interictal epileptic discharges (IEDs) into the fMRI analysis. We ask whether IED variability analysis can (a) identify additional activated brain regions during the course of IEDs, not seen in standard analysis; and (b) demonstrate the origin and spread of epileptic activity. We explore whether these functional changes recapitulate the structural connections and propagation of epileptic activity during seizures. Methods: Seventeen patients with focal epilepsy and at least 30 IEDs of a single type during simultaneous EEG-fMR..