Profile in Healthy Congolese Children Aged 6 to 12 Years in Lubumbashi: Toward a Local Reference Standard

Introduction: Electroencephalography (EEG) is a crucial tool for assessing brain development in children. However, the lack of normative EEG data in Sub-Saharan Africa limits its clinical interpretation. This study aims to describe the baseline EEG profile in healthy Congolese children aged 6 to 12 years in Lubumbashi.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 416 healthy schoolchildren. Resting-state EEGs were recorded using international standards, including hyperventilation and photic stimulation. Parameters analyzed included alpha frequency, amplitude, symmetry, regularity, and eye-opening reactivity. Data were analyzed using Jamovi.

Results: The mean alpha frequency was 9.2 Hz, with a significant age-related increase (p < 0.001). EEG tracings were symmetric in 97.6% of children, regular in 91.3%, and reactive to eye-opening in 96.2%. No epileptiform activity was recorded. Non-pathological associated rhythms (mu, theta) were observed in 40–50% of cases.

Conclusion: The EEG characteristics observed in these healthy children are broadly comparable to international norms, with some context-specific variations. These findings establish a local EEG reference useful for clinical practice and neurodevelopmental research in the Democratic Republic of Congo.