The Role of EEG in the Diagnostic Work Up in Psychiatry: Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus, Frontal Lobe Seizures, Non-Epileptic Seizures

• The role of Electroencephalography (EEG) in the diagnostic work up of Psychiatric and neurological illness has been under recognized. Consequently the EEG has been underutilized despite the fact that it is an important and essential tool in the differential diagnosis of some neurological versus psychiatric conditions. • Nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE), Seizures of Frontal lobe origin and Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) are the ultimate condition in which the disciplines of neurology and psychiatry meet and, at times, overlap. • A detailed history combined with an accurate physical examination, together with the help of a scalp EEG when indicated, are essential steps in the evaluation of patients with these conditions. • The diagnosis of these conditions may pose a diagnostic challenge. The care of these patients can greatly benefit from a coordinated approach utilizing the skills brought by multiple specialties. • Advanced techniques including video-monitoring and / or intracranial recording in addition to scalp recording have improved our ability to diagnose some of these challenging conditions.