ABSTRACT
Since the initial reports of the electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings in sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), there has been tremendous effort in the field to determine if there are specific EEG patterns that correlate with SUDEP. Identification of such patterns may (1) shed light on the pathophysiology behind SUDEP, (2) potentially aid in identifying those at high risk for SUDEP, and (3) further the development of potentially life-saving interventions to prevent SUDEP. Postictal generalized EEG suppression (PGES) has been reported in several monitored SUDEP and nearSUDEP cases. Although there is some evidence to suggest that prolonged PGES may be a risk factor for SUDEP, the data are conflicting at this time. Many questions regarding the etiology and role of PGES remain unanswered, but data are emerging regarding its potential significance in SUDEP.
