What is interictal epileptiform discharges?

Interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) are abnormal electrical discharges in the brain that occur between seizures in individuals with epilepsy. These bursts of electrical activity can be detected using an electroencephalogram (EEG) and are often characterized by sharp waves or spikes. While IEDs indicate an increased likelihood of seizures, their presence does not always correlate with clinical seizure activity. They are significant for diagnosis and management of epilepsy, helping to identify the type and focus of the seizures.