Table 1 Diagnostic challenges of neurological entities in the emergency setting and the benefits from EEG incorporation

   i. frequent unavailability of an EEG apparatus for a prompt identification of NCSE.

   ii. variety of clinical manifestations including the wide spectrum of behavioral presentations.

   iii. the differential diagnosis of altered mental status is vast and might consequently lead to a significant under-diagnosis of NCSE.

   iv. even when an EEG device is available, EEG ictal identification of the variable EEG morphologies encountered in NCSE might require expert identification and interpretation.

   v. unavailability of a neurologist to give an emergent interpretation.

II. Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus (GCSE)

   i. high correlation with various acute brain injuries.

   ii. NCSE might predominate after control of GCSE.

   iii. specific EEG patterns after control of convulsions are correlated with prognosis.

III. Breakthrough Seizures

   i. identification of underlying cause of seizure exacerbation.

   ii. management of antiepileptic drug regimen.

IV. Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (sTBI)

   i. "Pharmacologically" paralyzed patient where cerebral function cannot be strictly assessed clinically.

   ii. management of neurological insults that could be delayed in appearing and thus raising the risk of irreversible cerebral damage.

   iii. administration of various sedatives/analgesics that carry a high risk of sedation.

   iv. evaluation of a consequent cerebral dysfunction that is paralleled by various extra cerebral defects.