All individuals with new-onset seizures should request a referral to a neurologist, preferably one who is an epileptologist with knowledge of TSC. This neurologist will perform a complete neurological exam, as well as brain imaging (MRI or CT) and an electroencephalogram (EEG) to determine if there is abnormal brain wave activity. They may perform other examinations to identify the cause of the seizures and the type of seizures. Sometimes it may be necessary to complete long-term EEG using an ambulatory outpatient EEG monitor (a portable device) that can be worn at home. Alternatively, the neurologist may require inpatient video EEG monitoring that requires a stay in the hospital where medical professionals are able to record both EEG and video to determine what the seizure looks like and how it is associated with brain wave changes. The test results will guide the physician and the individual to make the best choice of treatment for the seizure type(s) the individual with TSC is encountering.
