1. AC is an EEG pattern in the alpha frequency range (8–13 Hz) that occurs with a generalized distribution in a comatose patient. It is monomorphic and does not change in response to sensory stimuli and is predominant in the frontal region. The AC is most frequently seen in anoxic encephalopathy caused by cardiorespiratory arrest (CRA) 48,49 and associated with a very poor prognosis. AC can also be seen in drug overdose,50 which is very similar to that seen with CRA, except with beta activity superimposed on the alpha activity. Other etiologies include TBI, CJD, pontomesencephalic lesions,51 and encephalitis. The prognosis of AC depends on the underlying causes of coma. Etiology and outcome of AC and other rhythmic coma patterns (beta, theta, and spindle) were similar. One type of rhythmic pattern can change to another. Reactive rhythmic coma was associated with favorable outcome.5,34,52 Prognosis is very poor in anoxic encephalopathy, especially if it develops after 24 hours of coma.53
Source: ICU, Atlas of Pediatric EEG
Citation: Laoprasert P. Atlas of Pediatric EEG; 2011 Available at: Accessed: January 20, 2018
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