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Goldstein LH, Stone J, Reuber M, Landau S, Robinson EJ, Carson A, Medford N, Chalder T. Reflections on the CODES trial for adults with dissociative seizures: what we found and considerations for future studies. BMJ Neurol Open 2024; 6:e000659. [PMID: 38860230 PMCID: PMC11163627 DOI: 10.1136/bmjno-2024-000659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The COgnitive behavioural therapy versus standardised medical care for adults with Dissociative non-Epileptic Seizures multicentre randomised controlled trial is the largest, fully-powered study to test the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a psychotherapeutic intervention in this population. We also explored predictors or moderators of outcomes and investigated mechanisms of change in therapy. In this current review of findings, we discuss issues related to the design of the trial and consider the study's nested qualitative studies which were undertaken not only to shed light on the original research questions but to provide insights and recommendations for other researchers in the field of functional neurological disorder. Finally, we consider issues relating to the possible clinical application of our study findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jon Stone
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sabine Landau
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Emily J Robinson
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Research Data and Statistics Unit, Royal Marsden Clinical Trials Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Surrey, UK
| | - Alan Carson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nick Medford
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Trudie Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Chalder T, Landau S, Stone J, Carson A, Reuber M, Medford N, Robinson EJ, Goldstein LH. How does cognitive behavior therapy for dissociative seizures work? A mediation analysis of the CODES trial. Psychol Med 2024; 54:1725-1734. [PMID: 38197148 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723003665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We compared dissociative seizure specific cognitive behavior therapy (DS-CBT) plus standardized medical care (SMC) to SMC alone in a randomized controlled trial. DS-CBT resulted in better outcomes on several secondary trial outcome measures at the 12-month follow-up point. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate putative treatment mechanisms. METHODS We carried out a secondary mediation analysis of the CODES trial. 368 participants were recruited from the National Health Service in secondary / tertiary care in England, Scotland, and Wales. Sixteen mediation hypotheses corresponding to combinations of important trial outcomes and putative mediators were assessed. Twelve-month trial outcomes considered were final-month seizure frequency, Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS), and the SF-12v2, a quality-of-life measure providing physical (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores. Mediators chosen for analysis at six months (broadly corresponding to completion of DS-CBT) included: (a) beliefs about emotions, (b) a measure of avoidance behavior, (c) anxiety and (d) depression. RESULTS All putative mediator variables except beliefs about emotions were found to be improved by DS-CBT. We found evidence for DS-CBT effect mediation for the outcome variables dissociative seizures (DS), WSAS and SF-12v2 MCS scores by improvements in target variables avoidance behavior, anxiety, and depression. The only variable to mediate the DS-CBT effect on the SF-12v2 PCS score was avoidance behavior. CONCLUSIONS Our findings largely confirmed the logic model underlying the development of CBT for patients with DS. Interventions could be additionally developed to specifically address beliefs about emotions to assess whether it improves outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - S Landau
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - J Stone
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - A Carson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - M Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - N Medford
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - E J Robinson
- King's College London, School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, London, UK
- Research Data and Statistics Unit, Royal Marsden Clinical Trials Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Surrey, UK
| | - L H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
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Goldstein LH, Vitoratou S, Stone J, Chalder T, Baldellou Lopez M, Carson A, Reuber M. Performance of the GAD-7 in adults with dissociative seizures. Seizure 2023; 104:15-21. [PMID: 36462456 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Little is known about the accuracy of the GAD-7, a self-report anxiety measure, in detecting generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) in people with dissociative seizures (DS). We evaluated the reliability, validity and uniformity of the GAD-7 using a diagnosis of GAD on the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview as a reference. METHODS We assessed 368 adults with DS at the pre-randomisation phase of the CODES trial. Factor analysis for categorical data assessed GAD-7 uniformity. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed by estimating the area under the curve (AUC). We evaluated discriminant validity, reviewed data on convergent validity and calculated internal consistency. We explored correlations between GAD-7 scores and monthly DS frequency, frequency of severe seizures and measures of behavioural and emotional avoidance. RESULTS Internal consistency of the GAD-7 was high (α = 0.92). Factor analysis elicited one main factor and general measurement invariance. Diagnostic accuracy was fair (AUC = 0.72) but the best balance of sensitivity and specificity occurred at a cut-off of ≥12 and still had a specificity rate of only 68%. Discriminant and convergent validity were good. GAD-7 scores correlated positively with DS frequency, severe seizure frequency, behavioural and emotional avoidance (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Findings regarding internal consistency and factor structure parallel previous psychometric evaluations of the GAD-7. Correlations between GAD-7 scores and DS occurrence/severity and avoidance are evidence of the concept validity of GAD-7 and provide further support for a fear-avoidance treatment model for DS. However, the utility of the GAD-7 as a diagnostic instrument for generalised anxiety disorder is limited in patients with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, PO77, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Silia Vitoratou
- Psychometrics and Measurement Lab, Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Jon Stone
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Trudie Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Maria Baldellou Lopez
- Centre for Implementation Science, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | - Alan Carson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Goldstein LH, Robinson EJ, Chalder T, Stone J, Reuber M, Medford N, Carson A, Moore M, Landau S. Moderators of cognitive behavioural therapy treatment effects and predictors of outcome in the CODES randomised controlled trial for adults with dissociative seizures. J Psychosom Res 2022; 158:110921. [PMID: 35617911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2022.110921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We explored moderators of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) treatment effects and predictors of outcome at 12-month follow-up in the CODES Trial (N = 368) comparing CBT plus standardised medical care (SMC) vs SMC-alone for dissociative seizures (DS). METHODS We undertook moderator analyses of baseline characteristics to determine who had benefited from being offered CBT 12 months post-randomisation. Outcomes included: monthly DS frequency, psychosocial functioning (Work and Social Adjustment Scale - WSAS), and health-related quality of life (Mental Component Summary (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS) SF-12v2 scores). When moderating effects were absent, we tested whether baseline variables predicted change irrespective of treatment allocation. RESULTS Moderator analyses revealed greater benefits (p < 0.05) of CBT on DS frequency for participants with more (≥22) symptoms (Modified PHQ-15) or ≥ 1 current (M.I.N.I.-confirmed) comorbid psychiatric diagnosis at baseline. The effect of CBT on PCS scores was moderated by gender; women did better than men in the CBT + SMC group. Predictors of improved outcome included: not receiving disability benefits, lower anxiety and/or depression scores (PCS, MCS, WSAS); shorter duration, younger age at DS onset, employment, fewer symptoms and higher educational qualification (PCS, WSAS); stronger belief in the diagnosis and in CBT as a "logical" treatment (MCS). Some variables that clinically might be expected to moderate/predict outcome (e.g., maladaptive personality traits, confidence in treatment) were not shown to be relevant. CONCLUSION Patient complexity interacted with treatment. CBT was more likely to reduce DS frequency in those with greater comorbidity. Other patient characteristics predicted outcome regardless of the received intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- L H Goldstein
- King's College London, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, UK.
| | - E J Robinson
- King's College London, School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, UK; Research Data and Statistics Unit, Royal Marsden Clinical Trials Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Surrey, UK.
| | - T Chalder
- King's College London, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, UK.
| | - J Stone
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, UK.
| | - M Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
| | - N Medford
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - A Carson
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, UK.
| | - M Moore
- Centre for Social Justice and Global Responsibility, School of Law and Social Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK.
| | - S Landau
- King's College London, Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, UK.
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Goldstein LH, Robinson EJ, Chalder T, Reuber M, Medford N, Stone J, Carson A, Moore M, Landau S. Six-month outcomes of the CODES randomised controlled trial of cognitive behavioural therapy for dissociative seizures: a secondary analysis. Seizure 2022; 96:128-136. [PMID: 35228117 PMCID: PMC8970049 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Goldstein LH, Robinson EJ, Pilecka I, Perdue I, Mosweu I, Read J, Jordan H, Wilkinson M, Rawlings G, Feehan SJ, Callaghan H, Day E, Purnell J, Baldellou Lopez M, Brockington A, Burness C, Poole NA, Eastwood C, Moore M, Mellers JD, Stone J, Carson A, Medford N, Reuber M, McCrone P, Murray J, Richardson MP, Landau S, Chalder T. Cognitive-behavioural therapy compared with standardised medical care for adults with dissociative non-epileptic seizures: the CODES RCT. Health Technol Assess 2021; 25:1-144. [PMID: 34196269 DOI: 10.3310/hta25430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dissociative (non-epileptic) seizures are potentially treatable by psychotherapeutic interventions; however, the evidence for this is limited. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy for adults with dissociative seizures. DESIGN This was a pragmatic, multicentre, parallel-arm, mixed-methods randomised controlled trial. SETTING This took place in 27 UK-based neurology/epilepsy services, 17 liaison psychiatry/neuropsychiatry services and 18 cognitive-behavioural therapy services. PARTICIPANTS Adults with dissociative seizures in the previous 8 weeks and no epileptic seizures in the previous year and meeting other eligibility criteria were recruited to a screening phase from neurology/epilepsy services between October 2014 and February 2017. After psychiatric assessment around 3 months later, eligible and interested participants were randomised between January 2015 and May 2017. INTERVENTIONS Standardised medical care consisted of input from neurologists and psychiatrists who were given guidance regarding diagnosis delivery and management; they provided patients with information booklets. The intervention consisted of 12 dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy 1-hour sessions (plus one booster session) that were delivered by trained therapists, in addition to standardised medical care. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was monthly seizure frequency at 12 months post randomisation. The secondary outcomes were aspects of seizure occurrence, quality of life, mood, anxiety, distress, symptoms, psychosocial functioning, clinical global change, satisfaction with treatment, quality-adjusted life-years, costs and cost-effectiveness. RESULTS In total, 698 patients were screened and 368 were randomised (standardised medical care alone, n = 182; and cognitive-behavioural therapy plus standardised medical care, n = 186). Primary outcome data were obtained for 85% of participants. An intention-to-treat analysis with multivariate imputation by chained equations revealed no significant between-group difference in dissociative seizure frequency at 12 months [standardised medical care: median of seven dissociative seizures (interquartile range 1-35 dissociative seizures); cognitive-behavioural therapy and standardised medical care: median of four dissociative seizures (interquartile range 0-20 dissociative seizures); incidence rate ratio 0.78, 95% confidence interval 0.56 to 1.09; p = 0.144]. Of the 16 secondary outcomes analysed, nine were significantly better in the arm receiving cognitive-behavioural therapy at a p-value < 0.05, including the following at a p-value ≤ 0.001: the longest dissociative seizure-free period in months 7-12 inclusive post randomisation (incidence rate ratio 1.64, 95% confidence interval 1.22 to 2.20; p = 0.001); better psychosocial functioning (Work and Social Adjustment Scale, standardised treatment effect -0.39, 95% confidence interval -0.61 to -0.18; p < 0.001); greater self-rated and clinician-rated clinical improvement (self-rated: standardised treatment effect 0.39, 95% confidence interval 0.16 to 0.62; p = 0.001; clinician rated: standardised treatment effect 0.37, 95% confidence interval 0.17 to 0.57; p < 0.001); and satisfaction with treatment (standardised treatment effect 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.27 to 0.73; p < 0.001). Rates of adverse events were similar across arms. Cognitive-behavioural therapy plus standardised medical care produced 0.0152 more quality-adjusted life-years (95% confidence interval -0.0106 to 0.0392 quality-adjusted life-years) than standardised medical care alone. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (cost per quality-adjusted life-year) for cognitive-behavioural therapy plus standardised medical care versus standardised medical care alone based on the EuroQol-5 Dimensions, five-level version, and imputed data was £120,658. In sensitivity analyses, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios ranged between £85,724 and £206,067. Qualitative and quantitative process evaluations highlighted useful study components, the importance of clinical experience in treating patients with dissociative seizures and potential benefits of our multidisciplinary care pathway. LIMITATIONS Unlike outcome assessors, participants and clinicians were not blinded to the interventions. CONCLUSIONS There was no significant additional benefit of dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy in reducing dissociative seizure frequency, and cost-effectiveness over standardised medical care was low. However, this large, adequately powered, multicentre randomised controlled trial highlights benefits of adjunctive dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy for several clinical outcomes, with no evidence of greater harm from dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy. FUTURE WORK Examination of moderators and mediators of outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN05681227 and ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02325544. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 43. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Emily J Robinson
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Izabela Pilecka
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Iain Perdue
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Iris Mosweu
- King's Health Economics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Julie Read
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Harriet Jordan
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew Wilkinson
- Canterbury Christ Church University, Salamons Institute for Applied Psychology, Tunbridge Wells, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gregg Rawlings
- School of Clinical Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sarah J Feehan
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah Callaghan
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elana Day
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - James Purnell
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maria Baldellou Lopez
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alice Brockington
- Department of Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Norman A Poole
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, St George's Hospital, South West London and St George's NHS Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Carole Eastwood
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Michele Moore
- Centre for Social Justice and Global Responsibility, School of Law and Social Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | | | - Jon Stone
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alan Carson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nick Medford
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul McCrone
- King's Health Economics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Joanna Murray
- Department of Health Services & Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mark P Richardson
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sabine Landau
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Trudie Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Lanzillotti AI, Sarudiansky M, Lombardi NR, Korman GP, D Alessio L. Updated Review on the Diagnosis and Primary Management of Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizure Disorders. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021; 17:1825-1838. [PMID: 34113112 PMCID: PMC8187153 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s286710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are paroxystic and episodic events associated with motor, sensory, mental or autonomic manifestations, which resemble epileptic seizures (ES), but are not caused by epileptogenic activity. PNES affect between 20% and 30% of patients attending at epilepsy centers and constitute a serious mental health problem. PNES are often underdiagnosed, undertreated and mistaken with epilepsy. PNES are diagnosed after medical causes (epilepsy, syncope, stroke, etc.) have been ruled out, and psychological mechanisms are involved in their genesis and perpetuation. For psychiatry, there is not a single definition for PNES; the DSM-IV and ICD-10/11 describe the conversion and dissociative disorders, and the DSM-5 describes the functional neurological disorders. However, patients with PNES also have a high frequency of other comorbidities like depression, particularly trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. It has been postulated that PNES are essentially dissociations that operate as a defensive psychological mechanism that use the mind as a defense to deal with traumas. With the advent of VEEG in the 90s, the recognition of PNES has significantly increased, and several psychological treatments have been developed. In this manuscript, we carried out a state-of-the-art review, with the aim to provide a critical approach to the extensive literature about PNES, focusing on diagnostic aspects, the primary management, and the available treatments that have been shown to be effective for the improvement of PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Inés Lanzillotti
- Buenos Aires University, Psychology School, Psychology School Research Institute National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Sarudiansky
- Buenos Aires University, Psychology School, Psychology School Research Institute National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Guido Pablo Korman
- Buenos Aires University, Psychology School, Psychology School Research Institute National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana D Alessio
- Buenos Aires University, Ramos Mejía Hospital, Epilepsy Center, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Buenos Aires University, Medicine School, Cell Biology and Neuroscience Institute (IBCN)- National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Jones A, O'Connell N, David AS, Chalder T. Functional Stroke Symptoms: A Narrative Review and Conceptual Model. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 32:14-23. [PMID: 31726918 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.19030075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Stroke services have been reconfigured in recent years to facilitate early intervention. Throughout stroke settings, some patients present with functional symptoms that cannot be attributed to a structural cause. Emphasis on fast diagnosis and treatment means that a proportion of patients entering the care pathway present with functional symptoms that mimic stroke or have functional symptoms in addition to vascular stroke. There is limited understanding of mechanisms underlying functional stroke symptoms, how the treatment of such patients should be managed, and no referral pathway or treatment. Predisposing factors vary between individuals, and symptoms are heterogeneous: onset can be acute or insidious, and duration can be short-lived or chronic in the context of new or recurrent illness cognitions and behaviors. This article proposes a conceptual model of functional symptoms identified in stroke services and some hypotheses based on a narrative review of the functional neurological disorder literature. Predisposing factors may include illness experiences, stressors, and chronic autonomic nervous system arousal. Following the onset of distressing symptoms, perpetuating factors may include implicit cognitive processes, classical and operant conditioning, illness beliefs, and behavioral responses, which could form the basis of treatment targets. The proposed model will inform the development of theory-based interventions as well as a functional stroke care pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbeygail Jones
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
| | - Nicola O'Connell
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
| | - Anthony S David
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
| | - Trudie Chalder
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
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9
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Read J, Jordan H, Perdue I, Purnell J, Murray J, Chalder T, Reuber M, Stone J, Goldstein LH. The experience of trial participation, treatment approaches and perceptions of change among participants with dissociative seizures within the CODES randomized controlled trial: A qualitative study. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 111:107230. [PMID: 32640411 PMCID: PMC7581898 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nested within a large, multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) for people with dissociative seizures (DS), the study used purposive sampling to explore participants' experience of participating in an RCT, their experience of DS-specific cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and another component of the RCT, Standardized Medical Care (SMC) and their perceptions of and reflections on seizure management and change. METHODS A qualitative study using semistructured interviews was conducted with 30 participants in an RCT (the COgnitive behavioral therapy vs standardized medical care for adults with Dissociative non-Epileptic Seizures (CODES) Trial) investigating the effectiveness of two treatments for DS. Key themes and subthemes were identified using thematic framework analysis (TFA). RESULTS Analysis yielded three overarching themes: taking part in a treatment trial - "the only thing out there", the experience of treatment techniques that were perceived to help with seizure management, and reflections on an "unpredictable recovery". CONCLUSIONS People with DS are amenable to participating in a psychotherapy RCT and described a largely positive experience. They also described the applicability of aspects of DS-specific CBT and SMC in the management of their DS, received within the confines of the CODES trial. Factors that appeared to account for the variability in response to treatment delivery included individual preferences for the nature of sessions, the nature of therapeutic relationships, readiness to discuss trauma, other aspects of emotional avoidance, and whether therapy provided something new.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Read
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Harriet Jordan
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Iain Perdue
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - James Purnell
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Joanna Murray
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Trudie Chalder
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield S10 2JF, UK
| | - Jon Stone
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Laura H Goldstein
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK.
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10
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Wilkinson M, Day E, Purnell J, Pilecka I, Perdue I, Murray J, Hunter EM, Goldstein LH. The experiences of therapists providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for dissociative seizures in the CODES randomized controlled trial: A qualitative study. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 105:106943. [PMID: 32078929 PMCID: PMC7156910 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.106943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little is known about the experiences of therapists delivering psychotherapy for patients with dissociative seizures (DS), a complex disorder associated with a range of comorbid psychosocial and mental health difficulties. This study set out to explore therapists' experiences of delivering DS-specific, manualized cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to adults with DS within the context of a randomized control trial. METHODS Interviews were conducted with 12 therapists involved in the COgnitive behavioral therapy vs standardized medical care for adults with Dissociative non-Epileptic Seizures (CODES) trial and were analyzed using thematic framework analysis (TFA). RESULTS Six main themes emerged, namely 1) aspects of the intervention that were favored, while others were not always considered applicable; 2) multiple and complex difficulties faced by patients; 3) working effectively within the protocol; 4) limitations of the protocol; 5) significance of formulation; and 6) quality of standardized medical care (SMC) and difficulties of diagnosis delivery. These addressed valued aspects of the intervention, complexities of the patient group, and experiences working within a structured treatment protocol. Family involvement and psychoeducation were highlighted as important components; the applicability of graded exposure techniques, however, was restricted by patients' apparent emotional avoidance. The structure provided by the treatment protocol was valued, but flexibility was important to individualize treatment in complex cases. A comprehensive formulation was fundamental to this. The initial diagnostic explanation provided by neurologists and psychiatrists was generally considered beneficial, with patients often perceived to enter therapy with a better understanding of their condition. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that the DS-specific CBT intervention met with general approval from therapists who also highlighted some practical challenges. Because of the nature of the condition, the need for experience of working with complex patients should be considered when applying the intervention to individual cases. Setting the CBT intervention in the context of a structured care pathway involving neurology and psychiatry may facilitate the therapeutic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Wilkinson
- Canterbury Christ Church University, Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology, Tunbridge Wells, UK,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Elana Day
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - James Purnell
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Izabela Pilecka
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Iain Perdue
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Joanna Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Edyta Monika Hunter
- Canterbury Christ Church University, Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology, Tunbridge Wells, UK
| | - Laura H. Goldstein
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK,Corresponding author at: Department of Psychology, PO77, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK.
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11
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Wardrope A, Wong S, McLaughlan J, Wolfe M, Oto M, Reuber M. Peri‐ictal responsiveness to the social environment is greater in psychogenic nonepileptic than epileptic seizures. Epilepsia 2020; 61:758-765. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.16471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alistair Wardrope
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust Royal Hallamshire Hospital Sheffield UK
| | - Siew Wong
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust Royal Hallamshire Hospital Sheffield UK
| | | | - Maytal Wolfe
- William Quarrier Scottish Epilepsy Centre Glasgow UK
| | - Maria Oto
- William Quarrier Scottish Epilepsy Centre Glasgow UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust Royal Hallamshire Hospital Sheffield UK
- Academic Neurology Unit University of Sheffield Royal Hallamshire Hospital Sheffield UK
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12
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Goldstein LH, Mellers JDC, Landau S, Stone J, Carson A, Medford N, Reuber M, Richardson M, McCrone P, Murray J, Chalder T. COgnitive behavioural therapy vs standardised medical care for adults with Dissociative non-Epileptic Seizures (CODES): a multicentre randomised controlled trial protocol. BMC Neurol 2015; 15:98. [PMID: 26111700 PMCID: PMC4482314 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-015-0350-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The evidence base for the effectiveness of psychological interventions for patients with dissociative non-epileptic seizures (DS) is currently extremely limited, although data from two small pilot randomised controlled trials (RCTs), including from our group, suggest that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) may be effective in reducing DS occurrence and may improve aspects of psychological status and psychosocial functioning. METHODS/DESIGN The study is a multicentre, pragmatic parallel group RCT to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of specifically-tailored CBT plus standardised medical care (SMC) vs SMC alone in reducing DS frequency and improving psychological and health-related outcomes. In the initial screening phase, patients with DS will receive their diagnosis from a neurologist/epilepsy specialist. If patients are eligible and interested following the provision of study information and a booklet about DS, they will consent to provide demographic information and fortnightly data about their seizures, and agree to see a psychiatrist three months later. We aim to recruit ~500 patients to this screening stage. After a review three months later by a psychiatrist, those patients who have continued to have DS in the previous eight weeks and who meet further eligibility criteria will be told about the trial comparing CBT + SMC vs SMC alone. If they are interested in participating, they will be given a further booklet on DS and study information. A research worker will see them to obtain their informed consent to take part in the RCT. We aim to randomise 298 people (149 to each arm). In addition to a baseline assessment, data will be collected at 6 and 12 months post randomisation. Our primary outcome is monthly seizure frequency in the preceding month. Secondary outcomes include seizure severity, measures of seizure freedom and reduction, psychological distress and psychosocial functioning, quality of life, health service use, cost effectiveness and adverse events. We will include a nested qualitative study to evaluate participants' views of the intervention and factors that acted as facilitators and barriers to participation. DISCUSSION This study will be the first adequately powered evaluation of CBT for this patient group and offers the potential to provide an evidence base for treating this patient group. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN05681227 ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02325544.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - John D C Mellers
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AZ, UK.
| | - Sabine Landau
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Biostatistics, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Jon Stone
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK.
| | - Alan Carson
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Morningside Terrace, Edinburgh EH10 5HF, and University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Nick Medford
- Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9RR, UK.
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK.
| | - Mark Richardson
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Paul McCrone
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Health Service and Population Research, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Joanna Murray
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Health Service and Population Research, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Trudie Chalder
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
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13
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Reuber M, Howlett S, Kemp S. Psychologic treatment of patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 5:737-52. [PMID: 16274332 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.5.6.737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures are relatively common, often disabling and costly to patients and society. Most authorities consider psychologic treatment as the therapeutic intervention of choice. This review is intended primarily for psychologists and therapists who treat patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, and for neurologists who make the diagnosis and wish to find out more about psychologic treatment options. The first section describes the nature and etiology of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. General questions regarding the psychologic treatment of patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures are addressed, before discussing specific therapeutic approaches. The final part summarizes the authors' views on optimal treatment and the direction of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Department of Neurology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK.
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14
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LaFrance WC, Reuber M, Goldstein LH. Management of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsia 2013; 54 Suppl 1:53-67. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- W. Curt LaFrance
- Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology Division; Rhode Island Hospital; Brown University, Alpert Medical School; Providence; Rhode Island; U.S.A
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit; Royal Hallamshire Hospital; University of Sheffield; Sheffield; United Kingdom
| | - Laura H. Goldstein
- Department of Psychology; Institute of Psychiatry; King's College London; London; United Kingdom
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15
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16
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Goldstein LH, Mellers JDC. Recent Developments in Our Understanding of the Semiology and Treatment of Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2012; 12:436-44. [DOI: 10.1007/s11910-012-0278-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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17
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LaFrance WC, Miller IW, Ryan CE, Blum AS, Solomon DA, Kelley JE, Keitner GI. Cognitive behavioral therapy for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2009; 14:591-6. [PMID: 19233313 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2009.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2009] [Accepted: 02/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Treatment trials for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are few, despite the high prevalence and disabling nature of the disorder. We evaluated the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on reduction of PNES. Secondary measures included psychiatric symptom scales and psychosocial variables. We conducted a prospective clinical trial assessing the frequency of PNES in outpatients treated using a CBT for PNES manual. Subjects diagnosed with video/EEG-confirmed PNES were treated with CBT for PNES conducted in 12 weekly sessions. Seizure calendars were charted prospectively. Twenty-one subjects enrolled, and 17 (81%) completed the CBT intervention. Eleven of the 17 completers reported no seizures by their final CBT session. Mean scores on scales of depression, anxiety, somatic symptoms, quality of life, and psychosocial functioning showed improvement from baseline to final session. CBT for PNES reduced the number of PNES and improved psychiatric symptoms, psychosocial functioning, and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Curt LaFrance
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown Medical School, Providence, RI 02903, USA.
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18
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Griffith NM, Smith KM, Schefft BK, Szaflarski JP, Privitera MD. Optimism, pessimism, and neuropsychological performance across semiology-based subtypes of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2008; 13:478-84. [PMID: 18602027 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2008.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2008] [Revised: 06/08/2008] [Accepted: 06/10/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Past research has suggested that pessimistic attributional style may be a risk factor for psychopathology among patients with seizure disorders. In addition, classifying psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) into subtypes has been found to be clinically relevant. However, very few studies have addressed differences in optimism, pessimism, or neuropsychological performance among PNES subtypes. We previously classified adults with PNES into semiology-based subtypes (catatonic, minor motor, major motor). In the study described here, we compared subtypes on optimism, pessimism, depressive symptoms, and neuropsychological performance. We found that patients with PNES with low optimism had significantly greater depressive symptoms than patients with high optimism, F(2, 39)=36.49, P<0.01). Moreover, patients with high pessimism had significantly greater depressive symptoms than patients with low pessimism, F(2, 39)=13.66, P<0.01. We also found that the catatonic subtype was associated with fewer depressive symptoms and better verbal memory than the other PNES subtypes. Our results support relationships between optimism, pessimism, and depressive symptoms and extend these findings to a PNES sample. Overall, the results of the present study suggest that classification into semiology-based subtypes and study of normal personality traits among patients with PNES may have clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan M Griffith
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
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19
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LaFrance WC, Barry JJ. Update on treatments of psychological nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2005; 7:364-74. [PMID: 16150653 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2005.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2005] [Accepted: 07/14/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The literature on treatment of psychological nonepileptic seizures (NES) is limited, marked by a number of case reports and anecdotal approaches to this difficult-to-treat population. A recent review of the NES treatment literature revealed 20 reports dealing with NES treatment. The majority of the reports were class IV studies. Since the prior review, a number of pilot trials in NES treatment have been published. In this article, we summarize the etiologic conceptualizations of NES, and link these to mechanism informed treatments. We describe the recent literature on NES treatments and propose future directions for intervention research.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Curt LaFrance
- Department of Psychiatry, Brown Medical School/Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
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20
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Stone J, Binzer M, Sharpe M. Illness beliefs and locus of control: a comparison of patients with pseudoseizures and epilepsy. J Psychosom Res 2004; 57:541-7. [PMID: 15596160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2004.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2003] [Accepted: 03/05/2004] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to examine the illness beliefs and locus of control of patients with recent onset pseudoseizures and to compare these with patients with recent onset epilepsy. METHODS Twenty consecutive patients with pseudoseizures of recent onset (mean duration 5.4 months) were compared with 20 consecutive patients with recent onset epilepsy on their responses to (a) the Illness Behaviour Questionnaire (IBQ) and (b) a measure of locus of control, a dimension of the tendency to attribute events to internal or external factors. RESULTS In comparison with patients with epilepsy, patients with recent onset pseudoseizures believed that psychological factors were less important than somatic ones were (P < .005) and had a greater tendency to deny nonhealth life stresses (P < .0001). No significant differences were detected in disease conviction or illness worry. Patients with pseudoseizures had a more external locus of control (P < .001), CONCLUSIONS Patients with pseudoseizures are less likely than those with epilepsy to see psychological factors as relevant to their symptoms, more likely to deny that they have suffered from life stress and also to have a more external locus of control. The implications for treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Stone
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK.
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Lichter I, Goldstein LH, Toone BK, Mellers JDC. Nonepileptic seizures following general anesthetics: a report of five cases. Epilepsy Behav 2004; 5:1005-13. [PMID: 15582852 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2004.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2004] [Revised: 09/07/2004] [Accepted: 09/07/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Five patients who developed seizures following a general anesthetic are described. It is not possible to determine retrospectively whether or not the initial attacks were definitely epileptic, but these patients all subsequently received a diagnosis of psychological nonepileptic convulsions/seizures (also known as pseudoseizures, psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, and nonepileptic attack disorder) established by video/EEG telemetry or ictal EEG recordings. In two cases there was evidence of concurrent epilepsy. We suggest that nonepileptic seizures may develop following postanesthetic seizures and that a psychogenic basis for seizures occurring after general anesthetics needs to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Lichter
- Neuropsychiatry Unit, Maudsley Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AZ, UK.
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Goldstein LH, Deale AC, Mitchell-O'Malley SJ, Toone BK, Mellers JDC. An Evaluation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a Treatment for Dissociative Seizures. Cogn Behav Neurol 2004; 17:41-9. [PMID: 15209224 DOI: 10.1097/00146965-200403000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate in an open trial the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy as a treatment of adults with dissociative seizures (i.e., "pseudoseizures"). BACKGROUND Although suggestions have been made concerning the management of patients with dissociative seizures, no studies have previously evaluated the systematic use of cognitive behavioral therapy in the treatment of this disorder. METHOD Twenty patients diagnosed with dissociative seizures were offered treatment comprising 12 sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy. Principal outcome measures were dissociative seizure frequency and psychosocial functioning, including improvement in employment status and mood. Measures were administered before treatment, at the end of treatment, and at a 6-month follow-up. RESULTS Treatment was completed by 16 patients (questionnaire measures were not available for 4 patients who discontinued treatment). Following treatment, there was a highly significant reduction in seizure frequency and an improvement in self-rated psychosocial functioning. These improvements were maintained at the 6-month follow-up. There was also a tendency for patients to have improved their employment status between the start of treatment and the 6-month follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS In this open prospective trial, cognitive behavioral therapy was associated with a reduction in dissociative seizure frequency and an improvement in psychosocial functioning in adults with dissociative seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London.
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Goldstein LH, Drew C, Mellers J, Mitchell-O'Malley S, Oakley DA. Dissociation, hypnotizability, coping styles and health locus of control: characteristics of pseudoseizure patients. Seizure 2000; 9:314-22. [PMID: 10933985 DOI: 10.1053/seiz.2000.0421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although literature in this area is relatively sparse, the occurrence of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (pseudoseizures) has been linked to stress, anxiety and possible dissociative tendencies. An association between dissociation and hypnotic susceptibility has also been proposed and dissociative tendencies have themselves been found to relate to the use of emotion-focused coping strategies. In order to investigate the hypothesis that pseudoseizure patients may exhibit higher levels of dissociation, a more emotion-focused coping style, and greater hypnotic susceptibility than the general population, the questionnaire responses of 20 patients with pseudoseizures were compared with those obtained from a non-clinical control group. As predicted, pseudoseizure patients demonstrated some evidence of higher levels of dissociation and escape-avoidance coping strategies. They also expressed a greater belief in external control over health and higher depression scores, compared to the control group, but the previously reported elevation in hypnotizability scores in the pseudoseizure patients was not found. Possible explanations for this pattern of results are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK.
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