Date of Award

5-2022

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Russel Kauffman

Keywords

Migraines; Seizures; Epilepsy, Electroencephalogram

Abstract

The purpose of this research and systematic literature review is to determine if obtaining an electroencephalogram (EEG) in patients presenting with migraine with aura would result in better and/or more prompt symptom management compared to empiric migraine treatment. In this review, the electronic databases; CINAHL, PubMed, Clinical Key, Cochrane Library and Dynamed Plus were used. Both keyword and mesh terms were used related to the pathophysiology of migraines and seizures along with guidelines for work-up and treatment of migraines and seizures. All articles chosen for review were published after 1999, except one. All articles were peer reviewed, and include randomized control trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, cohort, surveys, observational and meta-analyses. Articles were eliminated that were outside of the scope of the research question. For this review, 30 resources were selected. The research indicates strong correlation between migraine with aura and seizure activity, however there was not strong evidence for obtaining an EEG in every patient with migraine. The research suggests there are certain circumstances an EEG would be warranted in patients presenting with symptoms of migraine. In these circumstances a correct diagnosis would result in more prompt treatment. Insight was gained into symptomatic differentiation of the two conditions and therefore when an EEG may be helpful. Overall, more research is needed in the use of EEG specifically in migraine to ascertain how useful it would be.

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