Brief electroencephalography rhythmic discharges (BERDs) in the neonate with seizures: their significance and prognostic implications.

We aimed to explore the significance and prognostic implications of paroxysmal brief electroencephalography (EEG) rhythmic discharges (BERDs) in neonatal seizures. The 52 neonates in this study were divided into 3 groups: (1) BERDs only: 9 neonates, (2) BERDs + conventional EEG seizures: 11 babies, (3) Conventional EEG seizures only: 32 babies. We analyzed the BERDs and compared outcomes in the 3 groups: there was no significant difference in mortality and neurodevelopmental or background EEG impairment. Similar to conventional EEG seizures, BERDs are also associated with an increased mortality, morbidity, and EEG background abnormalities. Fewer babies with BERDS appear to develop postneonatal seizures suggesting their epileptogenic potential is less. In the appropriate clinical context, BERDs should be considered as miniseizures.