Artículos de Revista en Ciencias Médicas · 2025

Expert opinions on pediatric EEG training for non-epilepsy specialists in sub-Saharan Africa

Ideally, pediatric electroencephalograms (EEGs) should be performed by accred-ited neurophysiology technologists and interpreted by specialists trained in epilep-tology However, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lack such specialists.Aim: To collate expert consensus on essential curriculum content for non-epilepsy specialists in EEG interpretation and safe post-training practice.Method: A qualitative study on pediatric EEG training curricula needs was de-signed in collaboration with an adult education specialist. Data were collected viainterviews from 15 epilepsy experts with training experience across high- to low-income settings. Thematic analysis was used to identify sub-themes. The expertsvoted on the key statements in a two-round Delphi to ascertain consensus.Results: Twelve aspects of pediatric EEG training were identified and catego-rized thematically: relevance; exposure to pediatrics; focus on pediatrics; barriers;resource- limited setting; entry skills; best pedagogy; assessment; critical skills;reinforcement of skills; training model; and recommendations.Conclusion: This study was driven by the inadequate access to training in pedi-atric EEG for non-epilepsy specialists, which is further exacerbated by the lack ofepileptologists and neurophysiologists. The outcomes from the expert consensusopinions promoted consolidation, adaptation, and evolution of existing modelsthat are viable for practice and to be used worldwide. The Delphi consensus dem-onstrated alignment among regionally located specialists towards the promotionof effective and maintained training for non-epilepsy specialists, as well as high-lighting barriers that should be considered and addressed.