HYPERVENTILATION ACTIVATION ON EEG RECORDING IN CHILDHOOD

In 66 children with no neurologic symptoms, we analyzed EEG slowing qu antitatively during standardized hyperventilation (HV) activation [res piration rate (RR) of 30/min, threefold increase of VE, and 4-min dura tion]. Changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and velocity were also mon itored in right common carotid artery by Doppler ultrasonic method. De creases in PCO2 and CBF were the fundamental factors producing EEG slo wing during HV. The degree of EEG slowing was greater in younger child ren and well proportional to age with such standardized HV. The decrea se in CBF was much greater in younger children at the beginning of HV and may be related to the significant EEG slowing. EEG slowing was not related to the degree of decrease in CBF. The age difference in EEG r esponse to HV in children and adults may be due to the differences in the decrease in the CBF volume and sensitivity of the CNS to the chang e in CBF.