From the Research
Posterior slow waves and posterior occipital transients (POTs) are distinct EEG patterns that can be differentiated by their specific characteristics, with posterior slow waves being rhythmic delta or theta activity often associated with focal lesions or dysfunction, and POTs being brief, high-amplitude, negative sharp waves or delta waves that occur intermittently in the occipital regions during drowsiness or light sleep, as described in the most recent study 1. The key differences between posterior slow waves and POTs lie in their morphology, clinical significance, and age distribution. Posterior slow waves typically appear as continuous or semi-continuous slow wave activity, often associated with pathological conditions, and can occur at any age. In contrast, POTs are characterized by brief, high-amplitude, negative sharp waves or delta waves that occur intermittently in the occipital regions during drowsiness or light sleep, are benign, and typically disappear by early adulthood. Some studies have described the characteristics of POTs, including their occurrence in children and adolescents, and their tendency to disappear with eye opening or deeper sleep stages 2, 3. However, the most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the most accurate and up-to-date information on the differentiation between posterior slow waves and POTs. It is essential to correctly identify these EEG patterns to prevent unnecessary diagnostic procedures or treatments, as POTs represent a normal variant rather than pathology. The study by 1 highlights the importance of recognizing normal variants and artifacts in EEG interpretation to avoid overinterpretation and misdiagnosis. In clinical practice, the differentiation between posterior slow waves and POTs can be made by considering the patient's age, clinical history, and EEG characteristics. Posterior slow waves are often associated with focal lesions or dysfunction, whereas POTs are typically seen in healthy children and adolescents. The study by 1 provides a comprehensive review of normal variants and artifacts in EEG interpretation, including POTs, and emphasizes the importance of correct identification to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment.