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Patel H, Malave R, Bitting S, Weir K, Naus T, Shelton L, Harris KW, Kerr WT, Van Cott AC, Kirkpatrick L. Youth and Family Perspectives on Diagnosis Communication About Pediatric Functional Seizures: A Qualitative Study. Pediatr Neurol 2024; 161:91-98. [PMID: 39353333 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2024.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to understand diagnosis communication experiences and preferences of youths with functional seizures and their parents. METHODS Semistructured interviews with youths and their parents from a tertiary care children's hospital were conducted separately. We confirmed the diagnosis of functional seizures with the youth's treating providers. All interviews were audio recorded and professionally transcribed. Two coders performed thematic analysis and determined themes. RESULTS Thirteen youths (aged 12 to 18) and 13 parents completed interviews separately. Themes included the following: (1) both parents and youths reported substantial fear about their symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options; (2) good communication skills highlighted included providing reassurance, listening, and allowing time for questions, with different preferences between youths and parents in the mode of communication; (3) poor communication for both youths and parents included use of medical jargon, brevity of communication especially with the youth, minimization of youth's symptoms, lack of apparent compassion, and lack of written materials to supplement discussions; (4) perspectives on the role of mental health in functional seizures were heterogeneous, yet concrete treatment plans were desired including access to behavioral therapy; and (5) youths and parents wanted practical guidance including plans for school and how to respond to functional seizures in all settings. CONCLUSIONS Youths and parents provided concrete recommendations for optimal diagnosis communication. Study findings will inform the future development of an educational intervention to improve communication and create a supportive environment for youths with functional seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himadri Patel
- Division of Child Neurology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
| | - Ryan Malave
- Division of Child Neurology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Kaycee Weir
- Division of Child Neurology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Taylor Naus
- Division of Child Neurology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Levi Shelton
- Division of Child Neurology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kelly W Harris
- Division of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Wesley T Kerr
- Departments of Neurology & Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Anne C Van Cott
- Department of Neurology, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System and University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Laura Kirkpatrick
- Division of Child Neurology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Scamvougeras A, Castle D. Functional Neurological Disorders: Challenging the Mainstream Agnostic Causative Position. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2024; 69:487-492. [PMID: 38584382 PMCID: PMC11168345 DOI: 10.1177/07067437241245957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Anton Scamvougeras
- Department of Psychiatry, UBC Neuropsychiatry Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - David Castle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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Scheurich JA, Klaas KM, Sim LA, Weiss KE, Case HF, Harbeck-Weber C. Characteristics and outcomes of youth with functional seizures attending intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 153:109689. [PMID: 38447301 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109689] [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] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Functional seizures (FS) can be debilitating and negatively impact quality of life. Yet intervention research for FS is limited, especially for youth. This study examined clinical characteristics and outcomes of youth with FS (13-23 years) presenting to a pediatric intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment (IIPT) program in the midwestern United States. Sixty youth (mean age = 16.5 years; 83.3 % female) met inclusion criteria. At intake, comorbid chronic pain, somatic symptoms, autonomic dysfunction, eating and weight disturbances, and mental health concerns were common. Despite this high symptom burden, youth with FS reported significant improvements in functioning measured with the Functional Disability Inventory, t(53) = 9.80, p <.001, d = 1.32; depression measured with the Center for Epidemiological Studies - Depression Scale for Children, t(53) = 6.76, p <.001, d = 0.91; anxiety measured with the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale, t(53) = 3.97, p < .001, d = 0.53; and catastrophizing measured with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale for Children, t(53) = 6.44, p <.001, d = 0.86, following completion of the program, suggesting that IIPT may be an effective treatment option for highly disabled and emotionally distressed youth with FS. Future research is needed to continue to refine best practices for youth with FS to reduce suffering and improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Scheurich
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, 2411 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
| | - Kelsey M Klaas
- Department of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Leslie A Sim
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Karen E Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Hannah F Case
- Department of Otolaryngology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street STOP 8315, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Cynthia Harbeck-Weber
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Talai A, Freedman DA, Albert DVF. Education Research: Educating Child Neurology Residents About Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures: A Needs Assessment. NEUROLOGY. EDUCATION 2024; 3:e200111. [PMID: 39360154 PMCID: PMC11441745 DOI: 10.1212/ne9.0000000000200111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are difficult to differentiate from epileptic seizures (ES) even for neurologists who see these conditions frequently. This difficulty is due to overlapping semiologic findings between the 2 diagnoses. Previous studies have shown that trainees, including neurology trainees, are not accurate in differentiating PNES from ES. Neurologists often find the communication of PNES difficult. Despite these challenges, most programs do not have formal curricula for teaching PNES, and there are no standards for residency curricula in this topic. The aim of this study was to understand the gaps in resident education on PNES. Methods This study was accomplished through a needs assessment of current pediatric neurology residents and residency program directors (PDs). Two unique surveys were distributed, 1 for child neurology trainees and 1 for PDs. Questions were designed to understand trainees' self-reported knowledge, confidence, current education received, and desired teaching. Similarly for PDs, questions were designed to assess the state of education on PNES at their programs, sufficiency of education, and their desire for standardized curriculum. Results Sixty-eight trainees and 21 PDs responded to the survey. Approximately one-quarter of trainees reported neutral to low levels of confidence and 38% reported neutral to low levels of knowledge in caring for patients with PNES. Trainees reported that directing patients with PNES to appropriate management was the most challenging aspect of care, followed by communicating the diagnosis, with 60% and 46% reporting difficulty, respectively. Only 21% of residents felt their current PNES education needs no improvement. One-fifth of PDs felt their current PNES education is not sufficient, and all reported they would incorporate a standardized curriculum. Trainees reported preferring to learn about this topic through lectures and simulation, while PDs preferred online modules and simulation. Discussion While residents and PDs report high confidence and knowledge in treating pediatric patients with PNES, respondents felt improvement is needed to their curricula regarding this topic. Multiple learning methods are preferred, with emphasis on communicating the diagnosis and management of patients once the diagnosis has been made. PDs desire a standardized curriculum and would incorporate one into their programs. Findings of this study could be used to create a national curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Talai
- From the Division of Pediatric Neurology (A.T.), Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas and Children's Medical Center of Dallas; Department of Neurology (D.A.F.), Dell Medical School, Austin, TX; and Division of Child Neurology (D.V.F.A.), Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Daniel A Freedman
- From the Division of Pediatric Neurology (A.T.), Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas and Children's Medical Center of Dallas; Department of Neurology (D.A.F.), Dell Medical School, Austin, TX; and Division of Child Neurology (D.V.F.A.), Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Dara V F Albert
- From the Division of Pediatric Neurology (A.T.), Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas and Children's Medical Center of Dallas; Department of Neurology (D.A.F.), Dell Medical School, Austin, TX; and Division of Child Neurology (D.V.F.A.), Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
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Sørensen NB, Nielsen RE, Christensen AE, Kjeldsen MK, Rask CU, Christensen J, Hansen AS. Treatment Provided in Children and Adolescents with Functional Seizures-A Danish Nationwide Cohort. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1218. [PMID: 37508715 PMCID: PMC10378534 DOI: 10.3390/children10071218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional seizures (FS) are episodes of paroxysmal involuntary movements and altered consciousness without the typical changes in the electroencephalography as with epilepsy. A multidisciplinary approach is the golden standard in the treatment of FS. This study examined the cross-sectoral collaboration and treatment modalities provided to children and adolescents after a diagnosis of FS. METHOD A Danish nationwide cohort, consisting of 334 children and adolescents, aged 5-17 years, with a validated diagnosis of FS during the period 2004-2014 was studied. Medical record data were collected from diagnosing hospital departments. Management and treatment modalities from the time of diagnosis up to three months after diagnosis were explored. RESULTS The most used treatment modalities were psychoeducation (n = 289, 86.5%) and follow-up in outpatient care (n = 192, 70.6%). A cross-sectoral collaboration was initiated for a third of cases (n = 98, 29.3%). The most commonly provided treatment combination consisted of psychoeducation, follow-up in outpatient care and psychotherapy; however, only a few patients received this specific combination (n = 14, 4.2%). CONCLUSIONS The treatment applied was individualized and consisted of varying use of treatment modalities. Initiatives to curate clinical guidelines and implement a multidisciplinary treatment approach should be further explored to improve treatment for this young group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Brandborg Sørensen
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - René Ernst Nielsen
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ann-Eva Christensen
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Charlotte Ulrikka Rask
- Research Unit, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Aarhus University Hospital, Psychiatry, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jakob Christensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne Sofie Hansen
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
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Garcia A. Pediatric Functional Neurologic Disorders. Pediatr Clin North Am 2023; 70:589-601. [PMID: 37121644 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2023.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Functional neurologic disorders are common in the pediatric population. Recently, there has been a renewed focus on functional neurologic disorders, leading to improvements in diagnosis and management. This review focuses on updates in clinical presentation, diagnosis, pathophysiology (including neuroimaging), and treatment of functional neurologic disorders in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Garcia
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Suite 1200, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, USA.
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Stager L, Mueller C, Morriss S, Szaflarski JP, Fobian AD. Sense of control, selective attention, cognitive inhibition, and psychosocial outcomes after Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT) in pediatric functional seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 142:109143. [PMID: 36872138 PMCID: PMC10164678 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differences in sense of control, cognitive inhibition, and selective attention in pediatric functional seizures (FS) versus matched controls implicate these as potential novel treatment targets. Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT), which targets these factors, has been shown in a randomized controlled trial to be effective in improving pediatric FS with 82% of patients having complete symptom remission at 60 days following treatment. However, post-intervention data on sense of control, cognitive inhibition, and selective attention are not yet available. In this study, we assess changes in these and other psychosocial factors after ReACT. METHODS Children with FS (N = 14, Mage = 15.00, 64.3% female, 64.3% White) completed 8 weeks of ReACT and reported FS frequency at pre and post-1 (7 days before and after ReACT). At pre, post-1, and post-2 (60 days after ReACT), all 14 children completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core Scales, Behavior Assessment System (BASC2), and Children's Somatic Symptoms Inventory-24 (CSSI-24), and 8 children completed a modified Stroop task with seizure symptoms condition in which participants are presented with a word and respond to the ink color (e.g., "unconscious" in red) to assess selective attention and cognitive inhibition. At pre and post-1, ten children completed the magic and turbulence task (MAT) which assesses sense of control via 3 conditions (magic, lag, turbulence). In this computer-based task, participants attempt to catch falling X's while avoiding falling O's while their control over the task is manipulated in different ways. ANCOVAs controlling for change in FS from pre- to post-1 compared Stroop reaction time (RT) across all time points and MAT conditions between pre and post-1. Correlations assessed the relationships between changes in Stroop and MAT performance and change in FS from pre- to post-1. Paired samples t-tests assessed changes in quality of life (QOL), somatic symptoms, and mood pre to post-2. RESULTS Awareness that control was manipulated in the turbulence condition of the MAT increased at post-1 vs. pre- (p = 0.02, η2 = 0.57). This change correlated with a reduction in FS frequency after ReACT (r = 0.84, p < 0.01). Reaction time significantly improved for the seizure symptoms Stroop condition at post-2 compared to pre- (p = 0.02, η2 = 0.50), while the congruent and incongruent conditions were not different across time points. Quality of life was significantly improved at post-2, but the improvement was not significant when controlling for change in FS. Somatic symptom measures were significantly lower at post-2 vs. pre (BASC2: t(12) = 2.25, p = 0.04; CSSI-24: t(11) = 4.17, p < 0.01). No differences were observed regarding mood. CONCLUSION Sense of control improved after ReACT, and this improvement was proportional to a decrease in FS, suggesting this as a possible mechanism by which ReACT treats pediatric FS. Selective attention and cognitive inhibition were significantly increased 60 days after ReACT. The lack of improvement in QOL after controlling for change in FS suggests QOL changes may be mediated by decreases in FS. ReACT also improved general somatic symptoms independent of FS changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Stager
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Psychology, United States
| | - Christina Mueller
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Neurology, United States
| | - Skylar Morriss
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Psychology, United States
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Neurology, United States; University of Alabama at Birmingham, Departments Neurosurgery and Neurobiology and the UAB Epilepsy Center, United States
| | - Aaron D Fobian
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, United States.
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Gigliotti F, Di Santo F, Cesario S, Esposito D, Manti F, Galosi S, Ferrara M, Leuzzi V, Baglioni V. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and functional motor disorders in developmental age: A comparison of clinical and psychopathological features. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 140:109117. [PMID: 36804846 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) and Functional Motor Disorders (FMDs) commonly represent the main clinical manifestations of Functional Neurological Disorders (FNDs). Despite their high prevalence in pediatric neurological services, literature on this topic is still spare for this population. The present study aimed to deepen the clinical knowledge of a pediatric FNDs sample through a demographic and clinical characterization of the most recurrent clinical patterns during the pediatric age. Moreover, a comparison of neuropsychological and psychopathological profiles of PNES and FMD patients was carried out to identify specific vulnerabilities and therapeutic targets linked with these different clinical manifestations. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 43 FNDs patients (age range 7-17 years old) were retrospectively included in our study, enrolled in two subgroups: 20 with FMDs and 23 with PNES diagnosis. They were inpatients and outpatients referred over a period of 5 years and a standardized neurological, neuropsychological (WISC-IV/WAIS-IV), and psychiatric (CDI-2, MASC-2, ADES, DIS-Q, PID-5) evaluation was assessed. RESULTS In PNES patients the most common clinical phenotypes were functional tonic-clonic (52%) and atonic (32%) manifestations while in the FMDs group were gait alterations (60%), functional myoclonus (35%), and tremor (35%). A higher frequency of cognitive impairment was reported in PNES patients with higher anxiety-depressive symptom rates than FMDs patients. CONCLUSIONS Notably, specific neurocognitive and psychopathological profiles were described in PNES and FMDs, highlighting higher cognitive and psychiatric vulnerabilities in PNES, suggesting as well different strategy for therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Gigliotti
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - F Di Santo
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - S Cesario
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - D Esposito
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - F Manti
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - S Galosi
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - M Ferrara
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - V Leuzzi
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - V Baglioni
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
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Kustov GV, Rider FK, Zinchuk MS, Semenovykh NS, Akzhigitov RG, Guekht AB. [Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in autistic spectrum disorder]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2023; 123:112-117. [PMID: 37490675 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro2023123071112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are paroxysmal conditions that resemble epileptic seizures, but are not accompanied by epileptiform activity on the electroencephalogram and are not associated with other neurological or somatic disorders. Unrecognized PNES places a heavy burden on the patient and family, and on the health care system. Among many possible combinations of PNES with psychiatric disorders, autistic spectrum disorders are the least studied. This article presents a case of a 19-year-old female patient with autistic spectrum disorder and paroxysmal events and the presence of potentially epileptogenic changes in the brain. A multidisciplinary approach made it possible to diagnose PNEP in the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- G V Kustov
- Moscow Research and Clinical Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | - F K Rider
- Moscow Research and Clinical Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | - M S Zinchuk
- Moscow Research and Clinical Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | - N S Semenovykh
- Moscow Research and Clinical Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | - R G Akzhigitov
- Moscow Research and Clinical Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russia
| | - A B Guekht
- Moscow Research and Clinical Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russia
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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Nakamura A, Tanaka K. A boy with dissociative symptoms who benefited from biopsychosocial assessment. Pediatr Int 2023; 65:e15502. [PMID: 36790052 DOI: 10.1111/ped.15502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Akio Nakamura
- Department of Child and Adolescent Liaison, Division of Mental Health Care, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyoko Tanaka
- Department of Child and Adolescent Liaison, Division of Mental Health Care, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
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Elliott L, Carberry C. Treatment of Pediatric Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder: A Review of the State of the Literature. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2022; 41:100952. [PMID: 35450669 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2022.100952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FNSD), or experiencing neurological symptoms incompatible with either a neurological condition or a medical condition, is a common condition presenting in children and adolescents. It is associated with impairment in quality of life for patients and their families and represents a significant burden to the healthcare system. There is currently limited research available regarding effective treatment of pediatric FNSD. Currently, only one RCT exists studying effective treatment of FNSD in children and adolescents, and it is limited to one sub-type of FNSD and only examined cognitive behavioral therapy compared to supportive therapy. Despite this, almost all published research supports good prognosis for pediatric FNSD with all studies reporting improvement either in FNSD symptoms or in the quality of life and functioning of patients with FNSD. The most support was found for the use of cognitive behavioral therapy either as a stand-alone treatment or in the context of interdisciplinary treatment. Future research should focus on increasing the rigor of research, including expanding RCTs to include additional sub-types of FNSD and comparing across various treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Elliott
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Univeristy of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX.
| | - Caroline Carberry
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
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12
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Brief Report: Psychogenic Nonepileptic Events in Pediatric Patients with Autism or Intellectual Disability. J Autism Dev Disord 2022:10.1007/s10803-022-05479-1. [PMID: 35212867 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05479-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This is a retrospective case series of pediatric patients referred to the psychogenic nonepileptic events clinic (PNEE) who had comorbid diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or intellectual disability (ID). We describe 15 patients, nine with ASD and six with ID who had a telephone visit follow-up at 12 months. There were higher rates of male gender (40%) and comorbid epilepsy (53%) compared to the larger PNEE cohort. Eleven patients were available for follow-up and ten patients had improvement in events or were event-free. We report that patients with ASD or ID can develop PNEE and experience improvement from events.
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Yong Qun Leow T, Sadhu R, Mayall M, McDermott B, Botha B, Yiallourides M, Mongia M. Pseudo-seizure, an Atypical Presentation of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in a Female: A Case Report. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2021; 13:11795735211063985. [PMID: 34955664 PMCID: PMC8695742 DOI: 10.1177/11795735211063985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This paper describes pseudo-seizure as an atypical presentation of attention-deficit
hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in an adolescent female in the context of psychosocial
difficulties. We present the case, which explains the clinical dilemma in such
situations, along with selective literature review. Case Presentation An adolescent female, who is an academic high achiever, living with parents, presented
with unresponsive spells which were initially treated with antiepileptics by the
paediatrician without any significant improvement. Later, after further assessments and
revision of her diagnosis to conversion disorder, she was referred to the child and
youth mental health service team. Further evaluation revealed her symptoms to be a
result of multiple psychosocial stressors in the context of her having undiagnosed ADHD.
Individual therapy, treatment with stimulant, resulted in significant improvement in her
school and home adjustments. Conclusions This case demonstrates the diagnostic challenges that high-functioning girls with ADHD
coloured by psychosocial stressors can pose and raises the need for reviewing our
diagnostic approaches in these situations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raja Sadhu
- Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Kirwan, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark Mayall
- Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Kirwan, QLD, Australia
| | - Brett McDermott
- Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Kirwan, QLD, Australia
| | - Bianca Botha
- Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Kirwan, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Monica Mongia
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, India
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Agarwal R, Gathers-Hutchins L, Stephanou H. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in children. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2021; 51:101036. [PMID: 34373198 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2021.101036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) are a relatively common condition in children. While their clinical presentation resembles epileptic seizures, the underlying cause for PNES involves a multitude of bio-psychosocial factors. Patients may be misdiagnosed with epilepsy and subjected to unnecessary treatments, often delaying the diagnosis for years. A strong understanding of its symptomatology is essential for diagnosis of PNES. Successful management depends on effective teamwork that involves the neurologist as well as mental health professionals. This paper reviews the various aspects of PNES in children with emphasis on the clinical presentation, diagnosis as well as the underlying psychological basis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajkumar Agarwal
- Division of Neurology, Dayton Children's Hospital, Dayton, Ohio, USA; Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio, USA.
| | - Latisha Gathers-Hutchins
- Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio, USA; Division of Psychology, Dayton Children's Hospital, Dayton, Ohio, USA
| | - Hara Stephanou
- Department of School Psychology, Doctoral Student, St. John's University, New York City, New York, USA
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15
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Yeom JS, Bernard H, Koh S. Myths and truths about pediatric psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Clin Exp Pediatr 2021; 64:251-259. [PMID: 33091974 PMCID: PMC8181023 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2020.00892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is a neuropsychiatric condition that causes a transient alteration of consciousness and loss of self-control. PNES, which occur in vulnerable individuals who often have experienced trauma and are precipitated by overwhelming circumstances, are a body's expression of a distressed mind, a cry for help. PNES are misunderstood, mistreated, under-recognized, and underdiagnosed. The mindbody dichotomy, an artificial divide between physical and mental health and brain disorders into neurology and psychiatry, contributes to undue delays in the diagnosis and treatment of PNES. One of the major barriers in the effective diagnosis and treatment of PNES is the dissonance caused by different illness perceptions between patients and providers. While patients are bewildered by their experiences of disabling attacks beyond their control or comprehension, providers consider PNES trivial because they are not epileptic seizures and are caused by psychological stress. The belief that patients with PNES are feigning or controlling their symptoms leads to negative attitudes of healthcare providers, which in turn lead to a failure to provide the support and respect that patients with PNES so desperately need and deserve. A biopsychosocial perspective and better understanding of the neurobiology of PNES may help bridge this great divide between brain and behavior and improve our interaction with patients, thereby improving prognosis. Knowledge of dysregulated stress hormones, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and altered brain connectivity in PNES will better prepare providers to communicate with patients how intangible emotional stressors could cause tangible involuntary movements and altered awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Sook Yeom
- Department of Pediatrics, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea.,Gyeongsang Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University College of Medicine, Jinju, Korea.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Heather Bernard
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sookyong Koh
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
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16
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Hansen AS, Rask CU, Christensen AE, Rodrigo-Domingo M, Christensen J, Nielsen RE. Psychiatric Disorders in Children and Adolescents With Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. Neurology 2021; 97:e464-e475. [PMID: 34031196 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000012270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Knowledge regarding psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is limited. This study outlines the spectrum and risk of psychiatric disorders in childhood-onset PNES. METHODS We performed a nationwide matched cohort study of children and adolescents with PNES 5 to 17 years of age at the time of diagnosis between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 2014. Two matched comparison groups were included: children and adolescents with epilepsy (ES) and children and adolescents without PNES or epilepsy, called healthy controls (HC). Outcomes were prevalent psychiatric disorders before index (i.e., date of diagnosis or corresponding date for HC) and incident psychiatric disorders 2 years after index. Relative risks (RRs) were calculated and adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS We included 384 children and adolescents with validated PNES, 1,152 with ES, and 1,920 HC. Among the cases of PNES, 153 (39.8%) had prevalent psychiatric disorders and 150 (39.1%) had incident psychiatric disorders. Compared to the ES and HC groups, children and adolescents with PNES had elevated risks of both prevalent psychiatric disorders (adjusted RRPNES/ES 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.59-2.21, adjusted RRPNES/HC 5.54, 95% CI 4.50-6.81) and incident psychiatric disorders (adjusted RRPNES/ES 2.33, 95% CI 1.92-2.83, adjusted RRPNES/HC 8.37, 95% CI 6.31-11.11). A wide spectrum of specific psychiatric disorders displayed elevated RRs. CONCLUSIONS Children and adolescents with PNES are at higher risk of a wide range of psychiatric disorders compared to children and adolescents with ES and HC. A careful psychiatric evaluation is warranted to optimize and individualize treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Sofie Hansen
- From Psychiatry (A.S.H., A.-E.C., M.R.-D., R.E.N.), Aalborg University Hospital; Department of Clinical Medicine (A.S.H., R.E.N.), Aalborg University; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (C.U.R.), Research Unit, and Department of Neurology (J.C.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Clinical Medicine (C.U.R., J.C.), Aarhus University, Denmark.
| | - Charlotte Ulrikka Rask
- From Psychiatry (A.S.H., A.-E.C., M.R.-D., R.E.N.), Aalborg University Hospital; Department of Clinical Medicine (A.S.H., R.E.N.), Aalborg University; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (C.U.R.), Research Unit, and Department of Neurology (J.C.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Clinical Medicine (C.U.R., J.C.), Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Ann-Eva Christensen
- From Psychiatry (A.S.H., A.-E.C., M.R.-D., R.E.N.), Aalborg University Hospital; Department of Clinical Medicine (A.S.H., R.E.N.), Aalborg University; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (C.U.R.), Research Unit, and Department of Neurology (J.C.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Clinical Medicine (C.U.R., J.C.), Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Maria Rodrigo-Domingo
- From Psychiatry (A.S.H., A.-E.C., M.R.-D., R.E.N.), Aalborg University Hospital; Department of Clinical Medicine (A.S.H., R.E.N.), Aalborg University; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (C.U.R.), Research Unit, and Department of Neurology (J.C.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Clinical Medicine (C.U.R., J.C.), Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Jakob Christensen
- From Psychiatry (A.S.H., A.-E.C., M.R.-D., R.E.N.), Aalborg University Hospital; Department of Clinical Medicine (A.S.H., R.E.N.), Aalborg University; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (C.U.R.), Research Unit, and Department of Neurology (J.C.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Clinical Medicine (C.U.R., J.C.), Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - René Ernst Nielsen
- From Psychiatry (A.S.H., A.-E.C., M.R.-D., R.E.N.), Aalborg University Hospital; Department of Clinical Medicine (A.S.H., R.E.N.), Aalborg University; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (C.U.R.), Research Unit, and Department of Neurology (J.C.), Aarhus University Hospital; and Department of Clinical Medicine (C.U.R., J.C.), Aarhus University, Denmark
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17
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Asadi-Pooya AA, Brigo F, Kozlowska K, Perez DL, Pretorius C, Sawchuk T, Saxena A, Tolchin B, Valente KD. Social aspects of life in patients with functional seizures: Closing the gap in the biopsychosocial formulation. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 117:107903. [PMID: 33740497 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The human, as a biological system, is an open system embedded within larger systems -including the family, culture, and socio-political environment. In this context, a patient with functional seizures (FS) is embedded in relationships, educational/professional institutions, culture, and society. Both connection to these broader systems and the quality of these connections, as well as the soundness of each system in and of itself, influence the health and well-being of patients in positive or negative ways. The social aspects of life are important determinants of health and quality of life across the lifespan. The current narrative review brings out several overarching themes in patients with FS. Sections on attachment, marriage, social networking, and stigma highlight the central roles of supportive and affirmative relationships across the lifespan. The section on education underscores the importance of keeping children and youth with FS connected within their school environments, as well as managing any barriers - learning difficulties, school response to FS events, stigma, etc.-that can diminish this connection. Finally, the sections on employment and driving highlight the value of being an active participant in one's society. In summary, FS impacts patients across most social aspects of life domains regardless of age - factors that are important when developing biopsychosocial formulations. This review concludes that the multidisciplinary management of FS requires careful assessment of social aspects of life in patients which can then be targeted for treatment, to improve their quality of life, facilitating recovery, and reducing the risk of relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Francesco Brigo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano-Meran, Italy
| | - Kasia Kozlowska
- The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - David L Perez
- Functional Neurological Disorder Clinical and Research Programs, Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Chrisma Pretorius
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
| | - Tyson Sawchuk
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Aneeta Saxena
- Epilepsy Division, Department of Neurology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Functional Neurological Disorder Clinical and Research Program, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Benjamin Tolchin
- Yale Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Kette D Valente
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil.
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Fang Z, Li Y, Xie L, Cheng M, Ma J, Li T, Li X, Jiang L. Characteristics and outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders in western China: a retrospective study. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:31. [PMID: 33435924 PMCID: PMC7802240 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03045-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dissociative (conversion) disorder in children is a complex biopsychosocial disorder with high rates of medical and psychiatric comorbidities. We sought to identify the characteristics and outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders in western China. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 66 children admitted with dissociative (conversion) disorders from January 2017 to July 2019, and analyzed their clinical characteristics, socio-cultural environmental variables, and personality and psychiatric/psychological characteristics. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the variables associated with clinical efficacy. RESULTS Of these 66 patients, 38 (57.6%) were male and 28 (42.4%) were female, 46 (69.7%) had an antecedent stressor, 30 (45.5%) were left-behind adolescents, and 16 (24.2%) were from single-parent families. In addition, 30 patients (45.5%) were not close to their parents, 38 patients (59.4%) had an introverted personality, and 34 (53.1%) had unstable emotions. Thirteen families (19.7%) were uncooperative with the treatment. Patients who had cormorbid anxiety or depression exhibited significantly lower cognitive ability (P < 0.01). Logistic regression found that better treatment outcomes were positively associated with having a close relationship with parents, parental cooperation with treatment, and having a father with a lower level of education (i.e., less than junior college or higher). CONCLUSIONS The characteristics and outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders are related to socio-cultural environmental variables and psychiatric/psychological factors. Timely recognition and effective treatment of dissociative (conversion) disorders are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixu Fang
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuhang Li
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Lingling Xie
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Cheng
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiannan Ma
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingsong Li
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiujuan Li
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014, China. .,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China. .,China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China. .,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China.
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Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in children - psychophysiology & dissociative characteristics. Psychiatry Res 2020; 294:113544. [PMID: 33161178 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113544] [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] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine psychophysiology and dissociative characteristics of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in a clinical pediatric setting. A retrospective chart review was conducted over a 5-year period that included children meeting criteria for probable, clinically established or documented PNES. Of these, 33 patients (81%) underwent psychophysiology assessment as part of standardized care and were selected for study inclusion. Ages ranged from 10 to 17 years inclusive (70% female). The majority of patients were found to have some form of autonomic decompensation at baseline (82%) and lack of autonomic recovery from a cognitive stressor (58%). Inhibition of electrodermal skin response to laboratory stressor was associated with significantly longer duration of PNES illness (t=2.65, p=.013), while elevated heart rate (above 90th percentile) was associated with significantly higher frequency of PNES events in the month preceding diagnosis (t=3.1, p=.004). High levels of dissociation and hyperventilation symptoms were self-reported by adolescent patients (n=19) with a moderate degree of positive association (r=0.35, p=.038). The majority of patients (n= 25, 89%) were taught to correct respiratory CO2 levels during a single biofeedback training session. Conclusions: Child PNES populations appear to be characterized by chronic autonomic hyperarousal reflecting severity of their symptoms, which can feasibly be targeted for behavioral treatment.
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20
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Sunde KE, Hilliker DR, Fischer PR. Understanding and Managing Adolescents with Conversion and Functional Disorders. Pediatr Rev 2020; 41:630-641. [PMID: 33262153 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2019-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A functional disorder is a constellation of bothersome physical symptoms that compromise regular function but for which there is no identifiable organic or psychiatric pathology. Functional disorders can present with various symptoms. Common forms of functional disorders include functional neurologic symptom disorder (also referred to as "conversion disorder"), functional gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain syndromes, and chronic fatigue. One-third to one-half of outpatient consultations in many practices are due to functional disorders. Functional disorders must be distinguished from structural and psychiatric disorders but should not be considered diagnoses of exclusion. Recovery is facilitated by good relationships between patients and practitioners, with good explanations of the pathophysiology of functional disorders and effective encouragement and education of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiri E Sunde
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | | | - Philip R Fischer
- Division of General Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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21
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Flewelling KD, Koehler A, Shaffer J, Dill EJ. Correlates of health-related quality of life in youth with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Seizure 2020; 83:203-207. [PMID: 33227658 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have examined factors associated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in youth with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). In adults, internalizing symptoms such as depression have been shown to be more closely associated with HRQoL than seizure frequency, however, this has not been studied in samples of youth. Investigations into these areas are needed in order to enhance our understanding of the impact of this condition on children and adolescents and inform future clinical intervention. METHODS The current study includes 37 youth and one of their parents who attended a clinic visit for treatment of PNES. Children and parents completed measures of psychological functioning, and medical data were extracted from patient charts. RESULTS Parent-reported anxiety (B=-0.45, p = 0.05) and depression (B=-0.60, p = 0.01) were related to parent-report of HRQoL; self-report of depression was related to self-reported HRQoL (B=-0.90, p < 0.001). Seizure frequency, somatic complaints, and social problems were not related to HRQoL in this sample. CONCLUSIONS Internalizing symptoms, not seizure frequency, are associated with poorer overall functioning in youth with PNES. Interventions focused on improving anxiety and depression in addition to seizure cessation may contribute to improved HRQoL in youth with PNES more so than those focused on seizure cessation alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassie D Flewelling
- University of Colorado Denver, Department of Psychology, Campus Box 173, PO Box 173364, Denver CO, 80217-3364, United States; Children's Hospital Colorado, 13123 E 16th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States.
| | - Angelina Koehler
- Children's Hospital Colorado, 13123 E 16th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Jonathan Shaffer
- University of Colorado Denver, Department of Psychology, Campus Box 173, PO Box 173364, Denver CO, 80217-3364, United States
| | - Edward J Dill
- University of Colorado Denver, Department of Psychology, Campus Box 173, PO Box 173364, Denver CO, 80217-3364, United States
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22
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Wang YQ, Wen Y, Wang MM, Zhang YW, Fang ZX. Prolactin levels as a criterion to differentiate between psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and epileptic seizures: A systematic review. Epilepsy Res 2020; 169:106508. [PMID: 33307405 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are conversion disorders with functional neurological symptoms that can resemble epileptic seizures (ES). We conducted a systematic review to obtain an overview of the value of prolactin (PRL) levels in the differential diagnosis between PNES and ES. METHODS We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases for studies published up to June 4th, 2020. Published studies were included if they fulfilled the following criteria: original research on PRL changes after ES and PNES. By applying Bayes' theorem, we calculated the predicted values of PRL with pretest probabilities of 90 % and 75 % in ES. RESULTS Sixteen studies were included in this review. All the studies showed that PRL levels increase after ES, especially 10-20 min after ES, when the elevation was most obvious. In studies where capillary PRL level measurements were included, the median sensitivity in the diagnosis of ES (all epileptic seizure types), generalized tonic clonic seizures (GTCS), focal impaired awareness seizures (FIAS), and focal aware seizures (FAS) was 67.3 %, 66.7 %, 33.9 %, and 11.1 %, respectively. The median specificity in the diagnosis of ES was 99.1 %. By using Bayes' theorem, when we used the median specificity and sensitivity for predictive value calculation, assuming a pretest probability of 90 %, a positive PRL measure was highly predictive (99 %) of all types of ES, and negative predictive values were all below 30 %. When we used the lowest specificity and sensitivity for predictive value calculation, assuming a pretest probability of 75 %, ES and GTCS had positive predictive values of 77.2 % and 81.0 %, respectively; the negative predictive values of PRL in ES and GTCS were 26.2 % and 29.6 %, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The use of PRL could be a useful adjunct to differentiate GTCS from PNES. However, PRL levels are of limited use for differentiating FIAS or FAS from PNES, and a negative PRL measure is not predictive of PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Qiu Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First People's Hospital of Chongqing Liang Jiang New Area, Chongqing, 401121, China
| | - Yi Wen
- Department of Pediatrics, The First People's Hospital of Chongqing Liang Jiang New Area, Chongqing, 401121, China
| | - Ming-Min Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First People's Hospital of Chongqing Liang Jiang New Area, Chongqing, 401121, China
| | - Yi-Wei Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First People's Hospital of Chongqing Liang Jiang New Area, Chongqing, 401121, China
| | - Zhi-Xu Fang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400014, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China; National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China; China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, China.
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Interdisciplinarity and Integration: An Introduction to the Special Issue on Psychopathology in Medical Settings. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2020; 28:1-5. [PMID: 33219478 PMCID: PMC7678582 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-020-09752-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
As the world views, incredulously, the calamitous consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the inseparable connections between body and mind become more and more apparent, even for the heretics (i.e., biological determinists). Such realizations also bolster the understanding of the close link between medical conditions and psychopathology. Launched prior to the COVID-19 epidemic, this special issue sets out to illuminate the prevalence, course, etiology, and responses to a myriad of psychopathological conditions in medical conditions. The 13 articles in this special issue address a variety of medical conditions (chronic illness and chronic pain, Pica, cancer, acute delirium, factitious disorders, functional neurological symptoms, sleep disorders, fetal conditions), mental disorders (depression, anxiety, suicidality, eating disorders, personality disorders, PTSD), medical settings (primary care vs. specialty clinics), and developmental levels (children, adolescents, and adults). The overarching theme emanating from reading these articles is that clinical-health psychology, or clinical psychology in medical settings, is an ever-needed field of inquiry, epitomizing interdisciplinarity and science/practice integration.
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Flewelling KD, Koehler A, Shaffer J, Dill EJ. Medical and psychosocial outcomes of youth with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: An observational study. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 112:107383. [PMID: 32882629 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have examined both medical and psychosocial outcomes of youth with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES). The current observational study aimed to fill this gap by examining changes in seizure frequency, school absences, emergency department (ED) visits, psychological functioning, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in youth attending a clinic for brief treatment of PNES. METHODS Nineteen youth with PNES and their families presented to an integrated clinic and received psychoeducation and recommendations by medical and mental health professionals. Patients returned to the clinic, on average six months later, for follow-up. Parent proxy-report and self-report measures of psychological functioning and HRQoL were collected at each visit, and medical data were extracted from patient charts. RESULTS Forty-six percent of youth in the study experienced a reduction in seizure frequency, and 58% reported improvements in school attendance. Emergency department visits decreased by over 50%, and significant improvements in parent proxy-report of depression and HRQoL were observed. CONCLUSIONS Results provide valuable information regarding the clinical profiles of youth with PNES and demonstrate the possibility for improved medical and psychosocial prognoses in response to psychoeducation and treatment guidance. Information obtained in this study may aid in the design of future clinical trials and research, assisting in the development of appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassie D Flewelling
- University of Colorado Denver Department of Psychology, Campus Box 173, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO, 80217-3364, United States of America; Children's Hospital Colorado, 13123 E 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, United States of America.
| | - Angelina Koehler
- Children's Hospital Colorado, 13123 E 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, United States of America
| | - Jonathan Shaffer
- University of Colorado Denver Department of Psychology, Campus Box 173, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO, 80217-3364, United States of America
| | - Edward J Dill
- University of Colorado Denver Department of Psychology, Campus Box 173, PO Box 173364, Denver, CO, 80217-3364, United States of America
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Hansen AS, Rask CU, Rodrigo-Domingo M, Pristed SG, Christensen J, Nielsen RE. Incidence rates and characteristics of pediatric onset psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Pediatr Res 2020; 88:796-803. [PMID: 32392575 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-0945-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric onset psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is a highly disabling disorder and potentially misdiagnosed as epilepsy. Still, knowledge regarding PNES in children and adolescents is limited and data on both incidence and characteristics are scarce. This study investigated the incidence rate (IR) and clinical characteristics of pediatric onset PNES, including possible differences when having comorbid epilepsy. METHODS A population-based study of children and adolescents aged 5-17 years with an incident diagnosis of PNES in the Danish healthcare registries between 1996 and 2014. In total, 386 children and adolescents were included after assessment of diagnostic validity using medical record data. RESULTS The IR increased during the study period with the maximum IR observed in 2014 (7.4 per 100,000 person-years). A history of both neurologic and psychiatric problems as well as negative life events was identified. Comorbid epilepsy was confirmed for 55 cases (14.2%) and was associated with intellectual disabilities, school support and prolonged delay in PNES diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS PNES are increasingly diagnosed in children and adolescents, and the clinical profile of both neurologic and psychiatric health problems underscores the need for collaborative pediatric and mental healthcare. These findings provide important information for future healthcare planning in this area. IMPACT This nationwide study is the first to report population-based incidence rates of pediatric onset PNES documenting markedly increasing incidence rates between 1996 and 2014. A history of both neurologic and psychiatric problems as well as negative life events was identified for pediatric onset PNES. Comorbid epileptic seizures were associated with intellectual disabilities, school support and prolonged delay in PNES diagnosis. The clinical profile of both neurologic and psychiatric health problems underscores the need for collaborative pediatric and mental healthcare. The increasing number of children and adolescents diagnosed with PNES is important information for future healthcare planning in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne S Hansen
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark. .,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Charlotte U Rask
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Research Unit, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Maria Rodrigo-Domingo
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Sofie G Pristed
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jakob Christensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - René E Nielsen
- Unit for Psychiatric Research, Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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26
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Masi G, Madonia U, Ferrari A, Sicca F, Brovedani P, D'Acunto G, Mucci M, Lenzi F. Psychopathological features in referred adolescents with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures with or without epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 112:107431. [PMID: 32911302 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107431] [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: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are episodic manifestations that mimic epileptic seizures (ES) although not associated with electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormalities. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures and ES, however, can often cooccur. Emotional distress in adolescents can trigger PNES, but the psychopathological and personality features are still unknown. The aim of this study was to explore psychopathological features in a sample of referred youth with PNES, with or without ES, compared with a control group with ES. Thirty-four patients aged 12 to 21 years, 19 females and 15 males, were included in the study, 15 patients with PNES, 7 with PNES and ES, and 12 with ES. The three groups were compared according to psychiatric categorical diagnoses, psychopathological dimensions, life stressors, and personality traits, including alexithymia, interpersonal reactivity, and resilience, all assessed with structured measures. Patients with PNES, with or without ES, were more severely impaired, had a higher incidence of mood disorders, more frequent lifetime traumatic experiences, and lower resilience. All the three groups presented alexythimic traits and emotional dysregulation. Major limitations are the small sample size and the lack of a control group of healthy subjects. Disentagling psychopathological characteristics in PNES can help clinicians to focus diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Masi
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Ursula Madonia
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Annarita Ferrari
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Federico Sicca
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Brovedani
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia D'Acunto
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Mucci
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Lenzi
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
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27
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Fobian AD, Long DM, Szaflarski JP. Retraining and control therapy for pediatric psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2020; 7:1410-1419. [PMID: 32748572 PMCID: PMC7448150 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Our aim was to conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial of a novel cognitive behaviorally based intervention for pediatric PNES called Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT). Methods Participants were randomized to receive either eight sessions of ReACT or supportive therapy, and participants completed follow‐up visits at 7‐ and 60‐days posttreatment. The primary outcome measure was PNES frequency at 7‐days posttreatment. Eligibility criteria included children with video‐EEG confirmed PNES and participant/parent or guardian willingness to participate in treatment. Exclusion criteria included substance use, psychosis, and severe intellectual disability. Forty‐two patients were assessed for eligibility and 32 were randomized. ReACT aimed to retrain classically conditioned, involuntary PNES by targeting catastrophic symptom expectations and a low sense of control over symptoms using principles of habit reversal. Supportive therapy was based on the assumption that relief from stress or problems can be achieved by discussion with a therapist. Results Twenty‐nine participants (Mage = 15.1 years, SDage = 2.5; 72.2% female; 57.1% Caucasian, 28.6% African American) completed 7‐days postprocedures. For PNES frequency, the Wilcoxon Rank Sum test statistic was 273.5 yielding a normal approximation of Z = 4.725 (P < 0.0001), indicating a significant improvement in PNES frequency for ReACT at 7‐days posttreatment compared to supportive therapy. Participants with PNES in the 7‐days posttreatment were removed from the study for additional treatment, resulting in no 60‐day follow‐up data for supportive therapy. Interpretation ReACT resulted in significantly greater PNES reduction than supportive therapy, with 100% of patients experiencing no PNES in 7 days after ReACT. Additionally, 82% remained PNES‐free for 60 days after ReACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D Fobian
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Dustin M Long
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Neurobiology, The UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama
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28
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Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder in Children and Adolescents within Medical Settings. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2020; 28:90-101. [DOI: 10.1007/s10880-020-09736-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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29
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Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures in children-Prospective validation of a clinical care pathway & risk factors for treatment outcome. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 105:106971. [PMID: 32126506 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.106971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to prospectively validate a care pathway for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) in a pediatric setting. The pathway was developed based on a previous study of patients at our center, which demonstrated positive treatment outcomes of 80% full or partial remission. Sequentially referred patients with PNES in the validation cohort received care prospectively according to the pathway algorithm. It was hypothesized that the validation cohort would achieve outcomes similar to that of the development cohort as a result of standardized care. METHOD We performed a retrospective chart review of 43 children sequentially referred, assessed, and treated within a specialized neurology psychology service for suspected PNES over a 5-year period. The majority of patients (n = 41, 95%) met diagnostic criteria for probable, clinically established, or documented PNES, according to the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) criteria. RESULTS Ages ranged from 6 to 18 years of age at time of diagnosis, with the majority of patients being female (n = 29, 67%) and adolescent (n = 31, 72%). There was a high level of adherence to the care algorithm (n = 34, 84%). The development and validation cohorts were similar across demographic, clinical, and psychological characteristics. Standardized care resulted in high rates of full (n = 27, 63%) and partial (n = 12, 28%) remission, as self-reported at discharge. A 96% decrease in mean monthly frequency of total PNES events was also observed at discharge, as was a significant reduction in healthcare utilization related to PNES (74% fewer ambulance calls and 85% fewer emergency department (ED) visits). Post hoc analyses demonstrated that duration of PNES illness longer than 12 months (at diagnosis) increased odds of not achieving full remission by discharge (odds ratio = 5.94, p = 0.02). Developmental period of onset (child versus adolescent), having abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG) result, previous concussion, chronic versus acute stressor, more than one PNES event type, or additional functional neurological symptoms did not significantly impact treatment response. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates, for the first time prospectively in a pediatric setting, that standardized care for PNES leads to improved clinical outcomes and reduced healthcare utilization. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of PNES longer than 12 months also appears to be associated with less favorable outcomes in children.
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30
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Sawchuk T, Asadi-Pooya AA, Myers L, Valente KD, Restrepo AD, D' Alessio L, Homayoun M, Bahrami Z, Alessi R, Paytan AA, Kochen S, Taha F, Lazar LM, Pick S, Nicholson TR, Buchhalter J. Clinical characteristics of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures across the lifespan: An international retrospective study. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 102:106705. [PMID: 31785480 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies from a few countries have reported semiological differences in younger children compared with adolescents or adults with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNESs). This study tested the hypothesis that semiological, demographic, and historical risk factors vary with different ages of PNES onset in a large cohort from different countries. METHODS In this retrospective study, we investigated patients consecutively referred for PNES, who were admitted to epilepsy monitoring units in Iran, Brazil, Venezuela, Canada, Argentina, and USA. Age, gender, age at seizure onset, seizure semiology, and factors predisposing to PNES (abuse, stressors) were documented according to routine diagnostic practices at each center. Participants were grouped according to their age at onset (i.e., childhood, adolescence, or adulthood). RESULTS A total of 448 patients were studied. Female predominance was associated with adolescent- (85/122, 70%) and adult-onset (190/270, 70%) but not in childhood-onset PNES (28/56, 50%) (p = 0.011). Event frequency in the month preceding the diagnosis was higher in the childhood- [x¯ = 50, standard deviation (sd) = 82, p = 0.025] versus adolescent- (x¯ = 24, sd = 36) or adult-onset groups (x¯ = 29, sd = 61). Significant between-group differences were observed for generalized body movements (p = 0.0001) and ictal injury (p = 0.027), suggesting more severe ictal presentations in adult-onset PNES compared with younger ages. Adult-onset patients were also more likely to be taking an unnecessary antiepileptic medication (p = 0.010). CONCLUSION While PNES may present at any age, there appear to be notable differences across the lifespan with respect to some of the clinical characteristics. Further international and cross-cultural studies may reveal other interesting characteristics of PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyson Sawchuk
- Children's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada; University of Nicosia, School of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, Cyprus.
| | - Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lorna Myers
- Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group, New York, USA.
| | - Kette D Valente
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Anilu Daza Restrepo
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Maryam Homayoun
- Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Bahrami
- Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Rudá Alessi
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Silvia Kochen
- Buenos Aires University, Epilepsy Center, Ramos Mejía and el Cruce Hospitals, ENyS-IBCN-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Firas Taha
- Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group, New York, USA; Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, NJ, USA.
| | - Lorraine M Lazar
- Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group, New York, USA; Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, NJ, USA.
| | - Susannah Pick
- Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings' College London, London, UK.
| | - Timothy R Nicholson
- Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings' College London, London, UK.
| | - Jeffrey Buchhalter
- Children's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada; University of Nicosia, School of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, Cyprus; University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Departments of Pediatrics, Canada
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31
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Canna M, Seligman R. Dealing with the unknown. Functional neurological disorder (FND) and the conversion of cultural meaning. Soc Sci Med 2019; 246:112725. [PMID: 31911360 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.112725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), otherwise known as Conversion Disorder, is characterized by abnormal sensory or motor symptoms that are determined to be "incompatible" with neurological disease. FND patients are a challenge for contemporary medicine. They experience high levels of distress, disability, and social isolation, yet a large proportion of those treated do not get better. Patients with FNDs are often misdiagnosed and suffer from stigma, dysfunctional medical encounters and scarcity of adequate treatments. In this paper we argue that an anthropological understanding of these phenomena is needed for improving diagnosis and therapies. We argue that cultural meaning is pivotal in the development of FND on three levels. 1) The embodiment of cultural models, as shared representations and beliefs about illnesses shape the manifestation of symptoms and the meanings of sensations; 2) The socialization of personal trauma and chronic stress, as the way in which individuals are socially primed to cope or to reframe personal trauma and chronic stress affects bodily symptoms; 3) Moral judgment, as stigma and ethical evaluations of symptoms impact coping abilities and resilience. In particular, we focus on the disorder known as PNES (Psychogenic-Non-Epileptic Seizure) to show how cultural meaning co-determines the development of such seizures. We introduce the notion of interoceptive affordances to account for the cultural scaffolding of patients' bodily experiences. Finally, we suggest that effective treatments of FND must act upon meaning in all of its aspects, and treatment adequacy must be assessed according to the cultural diversity of patients.
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32
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Terry D, Trott K. A Qualitative Analysis of School Nurses' Experience Caring for Students With Psychogenic Nonepileptic Events. J Sch Nurs 2019; 37:441-448. [PMID: 31789104 DOI: 10.1177/1059840519889395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic events (PNEE) are paroxysmal changes in behavior resembling epileptic seizures but with no electrographic correlate and are instead caused by psychological factors. In this qualitative study, semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 school nurses to identify how they perceive the experience of caring for a student with PNEE as well as supportive factors and barriers to optimal management of PNEE in schools. Several themes were identified: lack of diagnosis awareness by school staff leading to impressions that the student was "faking" the events, inadequate information provided by a health-care provider regarding the diagnosis in general and specifically about the individual student leading to a reliance on information from the student's family, feelings of doubt and insecurity about the diagnosis and management of the events, and reliance on the school nurse to develop a response plan and to manage the events which can be very time-consuming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie Terry
- Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kristen Trott
- Department of Psychology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
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Asadi-Pooya AA, Myers L, Valente K, Sawchuk T, Restrepo AD, Homayoun M, Buchhalter J, Bahrami Z, Taha F, Lazar LM, Paytan AA, D' Alessio L, Kochen S, Alessi R, Pick S, Nicholson TR. Pediatric-onset psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: A retrospective international multicenter study. Seizure 2019; 71:56-59. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Myers L, Trobliger R, Bortnik K, Zeng R, Segal E, Lancman M. Dissociation and other clinical phenomena in youth with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) compared to youth with epilepsy. Seizure 2019; 70:49-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2019.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Yang GJ, Buneviciute J, Rice T, Coffey BJ. Metopic Craniosynostosis, Paroxysmal Dyskinesias, and Conversion Disorder (Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures) in an Early Adolescent with Depression: Challenges of Diagnosis and Treatment. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2019; 29:466-471. [PMID: 31348714 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2019.29170.bjc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve J Yang
- 1Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Juste Buneviciute
- 1Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Timothy Rice
- 1Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Barbara J Coffey
- 2Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
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Asadi-Pooya AA, Myers L, Valente K, Restrepo AD, D' Alessio L, Sawchuk T, Homayoun M, Bahrami Z, Alessi R, Paytan AA, Kochen S, Buchhalter J, Taha F, Lazar LM, Pick S, Nicholson T. Sex differences in demographic and clinical characteristics of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: A retrospective multicenter international study. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 97:154-157. [PMID: 31252271 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sex-related differences have been reported in patients with neurological and psychiatric disorders. It is also plausible to assume that there might be differences between females and males with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES). METHODS In this retrospective study, we investigated patients with PNES, who were admitted to the epilepsy monitoring units at centers in Iran, the USA, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, and Venezuela. Age, sex, age at seizure onset, seizure semiology, factors potentially predisposing to PNES, and video-electroencephalography recording of all patients were registered routinely. RESULTS Four hundred and fifty-one patients had PNES-only and were eligible for inclusion; 305 patients (67.6%) were females. We executed a logistic regression analysis, evaluating significant variables in univariate analyses (i.e., age, age at onset, aura, presence of historical sexual or physical abuse, and family dysfunction). The only variables retaining significance were historical sexual abuse (p = 0.005) and presence of aura (p = 0.01); physical abuse was borderline significant (p = 0.05) (all three were more prevalent among females). CONCLUSION Similarities between females and males outweigh the differences with regard to the demographic and clinical characteristics of PNES. However, notable differences are that females more often report lifetime adverse experiences (sexual and probably physical abuse) and auras. While social, psychological, and genetic factors may interact with lifetime adverse experiences in the inception of PNES, the link is not yet clear. This is an interesting avenue for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Lorna Myers
- Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group, New York, USA.
| | - Kette Valente
- Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Luciana D' Alessio
- Buenos Aires University, Epilepsy Center, Ramos Mejía and EL Cruce Hospitals, ENyS-IBCN-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tyson Sawchuk
- Children's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada; University of Nicosia, School of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, Cyprus.
| | - Maryam Homayoun
- Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Bahrami
- Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Rudá Alessi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Silvia Kochen
- Buenos Aires University, Epilepsy Center, Ramos Mejía and EL Cruce Hospitals, ENyS-IBCN-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jeffrey Buchhalter
- Children's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada; University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Departments of Pediatrics, Canada
| | - Firas Taha
- Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group, New York, USA.
| | | | - Susannah Pick
- Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings' College London, London, UK.
| | - Timothy Nicholson
- Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings' College London, London, UK.
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