Devices that monitor electrical activity in the brain or check it for structural irregularities are commonplace in epilepsy diagnosis and treatment.

Some of the more common types of tests and scans that might be used include:


Also known as an EEG, this device allows doctors to monitor a patient’s electrical brain waves. Irregularities in the patterns of the waves can be a sign of epilepsy, though there are exceptions. This test is sometimes coupled with video monitoring in order to link physical signs with what might be shown on the EEG.

Computerized Tomography

A technique that uses X-rays to map the structure of the brain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

This is also a technique for mapping the brain, but uses radio waves and magnets rather than X-Rays.

Positron Emission Tomography

This is a scan that can monitor brain function rather than map structure. It uses small amounts of radioactive material.

Other Tests

Your doctors may also want to perform other tests to help determine whether epilepsy or something else is causing your difficulties.

These can include taking a detailed medical history, blood tests and neurological testing.