What tests are used to determine the cause of epilepsy?
Various tests are used to assess the cause of epilepsy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a highly detailed picture of the brain and its intricate structure. Special imaging techniques and sequences specific to epilepsy are utilized (epilepsy protocol). With this special epilepsy protocol, small brain lesions that may go undetected with a routine MRI are readily discovered. Another test used in the investigation of epilepsy involves metabolic screening, which examines numerous biochemical products. Various enzyme defects result in a deficiency or overabundance of these substances. Abnormal concentrations of these molecules, resulting in neuronal dysfunction, may provoke seizures.
