What does EEG stand for in polysomnography?

EEG stands for Electroencephalogram in the context of polysomnography. It is a crucial component used to measure electrical activity in the brain over a period of time. During a polysomnography study, electrodes are placed on the scalp to detect and record the electrical impulses produced by neuronal activity. This information is vital for identifying different sleep stages, detecting sleep disorders, and understanding various brain conditions.

The EEG provides insights into the brain's activity patterns during sleep, including the identification of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM sleep stages. This data is essential for clinicians to diagnose conditions like sleep apnea, insomnia, and other sleep-related disorders, as changes in brain activity can indicate disruptions in sleep architecture. Therefore, understanding EEG and its significance in polysomnography is fundamental for professionals in the field.