ABSTRACT
The electrical potentials generated by the brain’s neural activity can be observed at the scalp using appropriate amplification techniques. The measured signal is called the electroencephalogram (EEG). It reflects
global brain function
, rather than brain function related to the performance of specific cognitive tasks. Within the framework of everyday neurological examination, therefore, the EEG serves to provide initial information about global brain condition. For clinical examination purposes, the EEG is recorded over a period of approximately 15 to 20 min, with the patient sitting relaxed in a comfortable chair, keeping his or her eyes closed as illustrated in Figures 6.1 and 6.2.
