EEG abnormalities in 5,893 jet pilot applicants registered in a 20-year period.

On account of EEG findings in jet pilot applicants examined during 1951-1952, the Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) accepted EEGs as part of the routine procedures for evaluation of the applicants' fitness. The outlook for a successful completion of the training program was poor for those with a paroxysmal abnormal EEG. As a consequence, candidates were excluded from training on the basis of paroxysmal EEG changes regardless of their clinical findings. During 1956-1975 an EEG was obtained from 5,893 applicants for jet pilot training in the RDAF. Of these, 142 (2.4%) were excluded because of an abnormal EEG. Paroxysmal discharges were induced by intermittent photic stimulation in 90%. Generalized or focal paroxysmal changes were present at rest in 6 applicants, during hyperventilation and sleep in 4 each. Four applicants, although asymptomatic, developed epileptic seizures during intermittent photic stimulation.