Giant somatosensory evoked potentials in children without myoclonic epilepsy

Sixteen of 1093 children 5-14 years of age with various neurological problems were detected showing giant somatosensory evoked potentials (GSSEP). These potentials were analysed and their enlarged components described. None of the 16 children had evidence of myoclonic epileptic seizures. Nine children had epileptic seizures, but 7 did not. The characteristics of GSSEPs in patients without myoclonic seizures are described. We conclude that in patients without myoclonic seizures GSSEPs occur and bear some similarity with those elicited in patients with myoclonic seizures. They may represent a form of hyperexcitability of the CNS.