magnetoencephalography

The measurement of magnetic fields over the head generated by electric currents in the brain. As in any electrical conductor, electric fields in the brain are accompanied by orthogonal magnetic fields. The measurement of these fields provides information about the localization of brain activity which is complementary to that provided by electroencephalography. Magnetoencephalography may be used alone or together with electroencephalography, for measurement of spontaneous or evoked activity, and for research or clinical purposes.

(12 Dec 1998)


Terms mentioned in text: measurement, magnetic, fields, head, electric, currents, brain, electrical, conductor, electric fields, orthogonal, magnetic fields, provides, localization, activity, complementary, provided, electroencephalography, spontaneous, research, clinical
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