Quantitative Electroencephalography in Hemodialysis: Scoping Review and Translational Framework
Meng-Hsun Tsai1, Cheng-Hsiung Chan1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, No. 123, Section 3, University Road, Douliu, Yunlin, 64002, Taiwan, 886 5-534-2601 ext 4102, 886 5-532-1719.
JMIR Biomedical Engineering
|July 31, 2026
Summary
Quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) shows promise for monitoring brain changes during hemodialysis, but challenges remain for clinical use. Further research is needed to standardize protocols and validate qEEG as a digital biomarker for kidney disease patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Nephrology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- End-stage kidney disease patients on hemodialysis often experience cognitive impairment and cerebral dysfunction.
- Intradialytic hemodynamic stress, including reduced cerebral blood flow and hypotension, is linked to neurological issues.
- Quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) offers noninvasive brain activity assessment, but its use in dialysis monitoring is hindered by methodological issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on qEEG alterations during the hemodialysis cycle.
- To assess technical requirements for using qEEG in future dialysis-related cerebral monitoring.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of studies from 2005-2026 in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and IEEE Xplore.
- Included 62 studies, synthesizing clinical and engineering aspects of qEEG in hemodialysis.
- Evidence organized by predialysis, intradialytic, and postdialysis phases.
Main Results:
- Hemodialysis patients show baseline spectral slowing (increased delta/theta, reduced alpha power).
- Intradialysis qEEG changes correlate with 10-15% cerebral blood flow reduction.
- Implementation challenges include artifacts, signal processing variability, and lack of standardization.
Conclusions:
- qEEG measures correlate with neurophysiological changes in hemodialysis patients.
- Current evidence is insufficient for routine clinical use due to heterogeneity.
- Standardization, artifact mitigation, and validation are crucial for qEEG's translational potential.
