Abstract

Continuous EEG monitoring in Kenyan children with non-traumatic coma

Gwer S, Idro R, Fegan G, Chengo E, Garrashi H, White S, Kirkham FJ, Newton CR
Arch Dis Child. 2012;97

Permenent descriptor

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to describe the EEG and clinical profile of seizures in children with non-traumatic coma, compare seizure detection by clinical observations with that by continuous EEG, and relate EEG features to outcome. METHODS: This prospective observational study was conducted at the paediatric high dependency unit of Kilifi District Hospital, Kenya. Children aged 9 months to 13 years presenting with acute coma were monitored by EEG for 72 h or until they regained consciousness or died. Poor outcome was defined as death or gross motor deficits at discharge. RESULTS: 82 children (median age 2.8 (IQR 2.0-3.9) years) were recruited. An initial medium EEG amplitude (100-300 mV) was associated with less risk of poor outcome compared to low amplitude (