Mechanisms and clinical significance of interictal regional positron emission tomography hypermetabolism in epilepsy patients

Abstract

Interictal regional positron emission tomography (PET) hypermetabolism often causes confusion in the localization of epileptogenic zone. It is of practical importance to make right interpretation. This article reviews previous literatures and analyzes possible mechanisms of interictal PET hypermetabolism, such as frequent epileptiform discharges, compensatory activities, excitotoxicity, etc. Besides, the prevalence and possible mechanisms of interictal regional PET hypermetabolism in some specific epileptic syndromes or diseases are also reviewed. This helpsto summarizethe value ofinterictal PET hypermetabolism in presurgical evaluation under different clinical backgrounds, and also implies comprehensive analysis with underlying etiology and other clinical information is necessary to aid the clinicalpractice.

Keywords

• Epilepsy; Positron⁃emissiontomography; Hypermetabolism(Notin MeSH); Review