Which factor is critical in diagnosing non-convulsive status epilepticus through EEG interpretation?

For diagnosing non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE), continuous monitoring and evaluation of rhythm changes in the EEG is critical. This approach is essential because NCSE can present with subtle and fluctuating EEG patterns that may not be evident in a single snapshot of brain activity. Continuous monitoring allows for the detection of ongoing rhythmic activity or particular changes in the background rhythms that can indicate the presence of seizure activity, even in the absence of obvious clinical signs.

In contrast, visual inspection for spikes might identify some forms of seizure activity, but it may not capture the more nuanced alterations often associated with NCSE. Analyzing data from previous EEGs can provide important historical context but does not directly aid in the immediate diagnosis of NCSE. A single snapshot of brain activity is inadequate, as it might miss transient changes or patterns that only manifest over a longer monitoring period. Continuous evaluation is therefore vital in safely and accurately diagnosing NCSE.