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Electroencephalography hyperventilation and stroke in children with sickle cell disease
1Division of Neurology, Children's Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois 60614, USA. gmillichap@childrensmemorial.org
Clinical EEG and Neuroscience
|August 26, 2006
Summary
Hyperventilation during EEG may pose risks for children with sickle cell disease (SCD). Neurologists should adhere to guidelines and avoid this practice in SCD patients to prevent potential neurological complications and stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Medical Safety
Background:
- Electroencephalography (EEG) with hyperventilation is a common diagnostic tool.
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder associated with neurological risks.
- Previous reports suggest a link between hyperventilation and adverse neurological events in SCD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the risks of using hyperventilation during EEG in children with SCD.
- To discuss the mechanism and management of hyperventilation-induced vascular infarction.
- To emphasize adherence to established guidelines regarding hyperventilation in SCD.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent case reports and existing literature.
- Analysis of neurological impairment and stroke associated with hyperventilation in SCD.
- Discussion of American Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Society (AEEGS) guidelines.
Main Results:
- A recent report documented hyperventilation during EEG in 6 children with SCD without immediate complications.
- Literature review highlights earlier reports of neurological impairment and stroke linked to hyperventilation in SCD.
- Non-adherence to AEEGS guidelines regarding hyperventilation in SCD patients is noted.
Conclusions:
- Hyperventilation during EEG is potentially risky for children with SCD.
- Adherence to AEEGS guidelines, which contraindicate hyperventilation in SCD, is crucial.
- Increased awareness among practitioners about these risks is necessary to prevent adverse events.
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