With increasing recognition of the role of organic factors in the etiology of psychiatric disorders, greater use of neurodiagnostic tests is expected. Clinical electroencephalography (EEG) is a noninvasive, low-cost neurodiagnostic technique widely available in psychiatric hospitals. Based on a review of the literature, the author outlines clinical applications of routine ( non-computerized) EEG related to evaluation of organic etiologies and symptoms of dementia, delirium, and lithium toxicity; evaluation before electroconvulsive therapy; and routine screening of patients. Screening EEGs are not recommended in settings in which complete neurological examinations are routinely performed.
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