[Risk of development of epileptic seizures in children with subclinical "epileptogenic" EEG abnormalities].

Sixty-six non-epileptic children with focal spikes in EEG and without cerebral palsy were followed for 16 to 35 years. The cumulative risk of developing one or more seizures was 33% when the first abnormal EEG was recorded, and increased to about 80% if abnormalities persisted three or more years. Focal spike activity was most persistent in children with retarded development or with organic brain diseases. We conclude that the presence of focal EEG spikes in children without epileptic seizures can be considered epileptogenic, especially if the abnormality is persistent and associated with clinical evidence of organic brain disorder.