Source-level EEG and graph theory reveal widespread functional network alterations in focal epilepsy.
Clin Neurophysiol
; 132(7): 1663-1676, 2021 07.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-34044189
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
The hypersynchronous neuronal activity associated with epilepsy causes widespread functional network disruptions extending beyond the epileptogenic zone. This altered network topology is considered a mediator for non-seizure symptoms, such as cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to investigate functional network alterations in focal epilepsy patients with good seizure control and high quality of life.METHODS:
We compared twenty-two focal epilepsy patients and sixteen healthy controls on graph metrics derived from functional connectivity of source-level resting-state EEG. Graph metrics were calculated over a range of network densities in five frequency bands.RESULTS:
We observed a significantly increased small world index in patients relative to controls. On the local level, two left-hemisphere regions displayed a shift towards greater alpha band "hubness". The findings were not mediated by age, sex or education, nor by age of epilepsy onset, duration or focus lateralisation.CONCLUSIONS:
Widespread functional network alterations are evident in focal epilepsy, even in a cohort characterised by successful anti-seizure medication therapy and high quality of life. These findings might support the position that functional network analysis could hold clinical relevance for epilepsy.SIGNIFICANCE:
Focal epilepsy is accompanied by global and local functional network aberrancies which might be implied in the sustenance of non-seizure symptoms.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Encéfalo
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Epilepsias Parciais
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Eletroencefalografia
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Rede Nervosa
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2021
Tipo de documento:
Article