What is the primary role of the EEG in diagnosing brain disorders?

The primary role of the EEG in diagnosing brain disorders revolves around analyzing electrical activity in the brain. Electroencephalography records the electrical impulses produced by neuronal activity, providing valuable insights into the function and health of the brain. This technique is particularly effective in identifying conditions such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, and certain types of encephalopathies, as it can detect abnormal brain wave patterns consistent with these disorders.

In contrast, measuring blood flow in the brain relates more to techniques like functional MRI or PET scans, which focus on metabolic activity rather than electrical activity. Detecting structural abnormalities would typically involve imaging modalities such as CT or MRI, which visualize physical changes in brain structure rather than evaluate electrical function. Assessing patient behavior is more aligned with psychological evaluation and does not specifically address the electrical dynamics of the brain, which is where EEGs provide critical information.