Overview

This study aims to better understand how epilepsy alters brain function through neuroimaging of healthy people and people with epilepsy. The study investigates how changes in brain metabolism (sugar consumption, measured by positron emission tomography [FDG-PET], and blood flow, measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging [fMRI]) relate to abnormal interictal electrical activity associated with epilepsy (measured by electroencephalography [EEG]). The study will also compare how the three imaging modalities localize regions of abnormal function in the brain.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 or older

Additional Inclusion Criteria for Subjects with Epilepsy:

• Diagnosed with epilepsy with abnormal interictal EEG

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindications to PET, MRI, or EEG imaging
• History of severe brain disease such as stroke and head trauma
• History of brain surgery
• History of type I or II diabetes mellitus
• Fasting plasma glucose level >200 mg/dL
• Employed under direct supervision of the PI conducting the research

Additional Exclusion Criteria for Healthy Subjects:

• Current use of drugs that modulate brain function
• Current or past history of major medical, neurological, or psychiatric conditions