Electroencephalographic findings in pediatric cases of coma

Electroencephalographic aspects of coma in 201 children are presented. The ages of the subjects ranged between 1 month and 14 years. The EEG picture was not specific. Diffuse slowing and convulsive activity were present in meningoencephalitis and postconvulsive coma. Diffuse slowing was also present in coma of metabolic origin. Mixed slow and fast activity was typical of coma due to benzodiazepines, barbiturates and alcohol. In patients with intracerebral hemorrhages, there was marked focal slowing associated with generalized delta and theta waves. In 12 patients with craniocerebral trauma, the EEG showed generalized slowing which was associated with focal reduction of voltage in 6 cases and with convulsive activity in 2. Extreme slowing or an isoelectric recording had a bad prognosis. The reappearance of sleep spindles was a favorable sign.