Which type of abnormality might not be detected in a standard EEG but may require additional assessments?

The identification of structural lesions often requires more advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI or CT scans, rather than a standard electroencephalogram (EEG). A standard EEG primarily captures the electrical activity of the brain in terms of waveforms, rhythms, and patterns, but it does not provide direct visualization of the brain's physical structure.

Structural lesions, such as tumors, cysts, or significant malformations, may not produce specific patterns in the EEG that are easily recognizable. Instead, these abnormalities are usually visualized through imaging studies designed to assess the anatomy and morphology of the brain. By utilizing these imaging modalities, healthcare providers can better understand potential underlying physical causes of neurological symptoms, which may correlate with abnormalities that could manifest on an EEG.

In contrast, conditions like cerebral embolism, metabolic disturbances, and hypoxic injury may lead to changes in electrical activity that can be detected on a standard EEG, as these states often influence the brain's overall function and rhythmic patterns. Thus, relying solely on a standard EEG would be inadequate for the detection of structural lesions, highlighting the necessity for additional diagnostic assessments.