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Reilly C, Jette N, Johnson EC, Kariuki SM, Meredith F, Wirrell E, Mula M, Smith ML, Walsh S, Fong CY, Wilmshurst JM, Kerr M, Valente K, Auvin S. Scoping review and expert-based consensus recommendations for assessment and management of psychogenic non-epileptic (functional) seizures (PNES) in children: A report from the Pediatric Psychiatric Issues Task Force of the International League Against Epilepsy. Epilepsia 2023; 64:3160-3195. [PMID: 37804168 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Limited guidance exists regarding the assessment and management of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in children. Our aim was to develop consensus-based recommendations to fill this gap. The members of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Task Force on Pediatric Psychiatric Issues conducted a scoping review adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-SR) standards. This was supplemented with a Delphi process sent to pediatric PNES experts. Consensus was defined as ≥80% agreement. The systematic search identified 77 studies, the majority (55%) of which were retrospective (only one randomized clinical trial). The primary means of PNES identification was video electroencephalography (vEEG) in 84% of studies. Better outcome was associated with access to counseling/psychological intervention. Children with PNES have more frequent psychiatric disorders than controls. The Delphi resulted in 22 recommendations: Assessment-There was consensus on the importance of (1) taking a comprehensive developmental history; (2) obtaining a description of the events; (3) asking about potential stressors; (4) the need to use vEEG if available parent, self, and school reports and video recordings can contribute to a "probable" diagnosis; and (5) that invasive provocation techniques or deceit should not be employed. Management-There was consensus about the (1) need for a professional with expertise in epilepsy to remain involved for a period after PNES diagnosis; (2) provision of appropriate educational materials to the child and caregivers; and (3) that the decision on treatment modality for PNES in children should consider the child's age, cognitive ability, and family factors. Comorbidities-There was consensus that all children with PNES should be screened for mental health and neurodevelopmental difficulties. Recommendations to facilitate the assessment and management of PNES in children were developed. Future directions to fill knowledge gaps were proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Reilly
- Research Department, Young Epilepsy, Lingfield, UK
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nathalie Jette
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinia, New York City, New York, USA
| | | | - Symon M Kariuki
- KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Elaine Wirrell
- Divisions of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Marco Mula
- IMBE, St George's University and the Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Mary Lou Smith
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga and Neurosciences and Mental Health Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samantha Walsh
- Levy Library, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Choong Yi Fong
- Division of Paediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jo M Wilmshurst
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mike Kerr
- Institute of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kette Valente
- Clinical Neurophysiology Sector, University of São Paulo, Clinic Hospital (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Stephane Auvin
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM NeuroDiderot, Paris, France
- Pediatric Neurology Department, APHP, Robert Debré University Hospital, CRMR epilepsies rares, EpiCare member, Paris, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
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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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Behavioral health screening in pediatric epilepsy: Which measures commonly used in the United States are 'good enough'? Epilepsy Behav 2022; 134:108818. [PMID: 35841809 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To improve evidence-based implementation of behavioral health screening measures in pediatric epilepsy care, guidance is needed in the selection and interpretation of evidence-based screening measures. Therefore, the goals of this project were to (1) evaluate the clinical utility and psychometric properties of screening instruments frequently used in the United States (US) for anxiety, depression, and behavior problems in youth with epilepsy (YWE), and (2) provide guidance around selection and interpretation of these behavioral health screening measures. METHOD The critique was conducted in three phases: (1) identification of articles based on search criteria; (2) full review of articles for eligibility assessment; (3) evaluation of screening measures and organization into Tiers. Nine behavioral health measures frequently used to screen for anxiety, depression, and disruptive behaviors in the US were selected for evaluation. PubMed, CINAHL, Medline, and APA databases were searched using the following search terms: [target area] + [screening measure] + epilepsy + children [youth], [adolescents]. Inclusion/exclusion criteria for articles were as follows: (1) focused on YWE, (2) written in English, and (3) conducted in the US. Once articles were selected, Hunsley and Mash's criteria were used to evaluate and categorize the screening measures' psychometric properties, which have clear relevance to clinical practice. Measures were also classified into three tiers by the level of validation according to established evidence-based criteria. RESULTS Forty-one unique papers were identified through the literature search and assessed as eligible. Evaluation of screening measures revealed only two psychometrically sound measures that met criteria for Tier 1, the NDDI-E-Y and the Pediatric NeuroQoL-Depression, both depression screening measures. Several additional depression screening measures met criteria for Tier 2 (CDI-2, BASC-2-Depression Scale, and CBCL Withdrawn/Depressed Scale). Anxiety screening measures have not been validated in pediatric epilepsy and thus only met the criteria for Tier 2 (BASC-2 Anxiety Scale, CBCL DSM-IV Oriented Anxiety Problems Scale, MASC). Similarly for disruptive behaviors, two measures met Tier 2 criteria (BASC-2 Externalizing Problems Index, CBCL Externalizing Problems Index). CONCLUSION Strides have been made in the validation of behavioral health screening measures for YWE; however, continued research in this area is necessary to validate existing psychometrically sound measures and to develop and evaluate epilepsy-specific measures in the pediatric epilepsy population.
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Stager L, Morriss S, Szaflarski JP, Fobian AD. Psychiatric and personality factors in pediatric functional seizures: A prospective case-control study. Seizure 2022; 98:105-112. [PMID: 35462300 PMCID: PMC9081249 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study assessed psychiatric and personality characteristics in relation to pediatric functional seizures (FS). METHODS In a 1:1 prospectively matched-control study design, children with documented FS (confirmed via video EEG; ages 13-18) were matched to controls (MCs) on income, sex, race, and age. Primary outcomes were Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2) and Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory (MACI). Secondary measures included questionnaires assessing trauma, somatization, body awareness and quality of life (QOL). T-tests investigated differences between groups on T-scores. Due to lack of significant outcomes, an experimental analysis was conducted assessing differences in number of clinically elevated BASC-2 and MACI scores between groups. Binary logistic regressions determined the influences of clinically elevated scores on likelihood participants have FS. T-tests assessed differences on secondary measures. RESULTS Participants included 84 children, 42 with FS and 42 MCs (Children with FS: Meanage=15.4, Interquartile Rangeage=3; 73.5% female; 59.5% white). Children with FS had greater parent-reported somatization (t(23)=5.67, p<0.001) on BASC-2, greater somatization on CSSI-24 (t(35)=6.83, p<0.001), and poorer QOL (t(41)=-6.22; p<0.001) than MCs. There were no differences in clinically elevated BASC-2 or MACI scores compared to MCs and clinically elevated scores did not influence likelihood participants have FS. CONCLUSIONS Children with FS had greater somatization and poorer QOL but similar rates of psychiatric symptoms, trauma, and maladaptive personality traits compared to MCs. Psychiatric or personality factors did not predict likelihood of FS. Explanations of pediatric FS should consider novel contributors to FS rather than relying solely on a psychiatric etiology.
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Doss J. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in youth: Individual and family psychiatric characteristics. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1068439. [PMID: 36590633 PMCID: PMC9798111 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1068439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Youth with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are an understudied group associated with significant medical and psychiatric morbidity. Several studies have examined characteristics associated with youth's development of this disorder, though the exploration of family factors including psychiatric illness, has been lacking. This study sought to establish the need for a more comprehensive future study. METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients who had been admitted and diagnosed with PNES at the epilepsy monitoring unit at Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota. A total of 62 patients were included. All patients were evaluated by an epileptologist and psychologist during their diagnostic admission. "Spells" in question were captured via video EEG monitoring. PNES youth and family risk factors were assessed. RESULTS Mean age of PNES symptom onset was 13.9 years. Patients (73%) were diagnosed within 6 months of onset of symptoms. Histories of other impairing somatic complaints were present in the youth (54%), with 67% having prior psychiatric diagnoses. Experiencing suicidal ideation or thoughts of self-harm occurred in 47% of this sample. Family members were unaware of the history of these symptoms with 12% of the parent's reporting awareness. Family history of psychiatric disorders (first-degree relatives of patient) was present in 54% of the sample, with anxiety, depression and conversion disorder being the most commonly endorsed diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS Youth with PNES present with comorbid psychiatric disorders, though prior assessment and treatment for these disorders was not common. Youth with PNES have history of suicidal ideation and thoughts of self-harm, though parental awareness of these co-occurring symptoms is limited. Family risk factors, such as history of psychiatric disorder in first degree relatives, was high. The impact of these family risk factors is understudied and should be further evaluated to better understand the impact on development and maintenance of this disorder in youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Doss
- Julia Doss Clinic of Health Psychology, LLC, Minneapolis, MN, United States.,Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
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Title: Functional seizures across the adult lifespan: female sex, delay to diagnosis and disability. Seizure 2021; 91:476-483. [PMID: 34343859 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The clinical characteristics of functional seizures may vary based on age-of-onset or age-of-presentation. Description of age-related differences has focused on three categories: pediatric, young-adult, and older-adult. We evaluated how factors continuously varied based on age-of-presentation across the adult lifespan. METHODS Based on cross-sectional data from 365 adult (18 to 88 years old) patients with documented diagnoses of functional seizures, we evaluated how the quantity and prevalence of specific ictal behaviors, historical factors, and comorbidities varied based on patient age-of-presentation using sequential weighted averages. RESULTS Four factors changed prominently with age-of-presentation: female predominance decreased at two inflection points - ages 35 and 62; the prevalence of work disability was higher until age-of-presentation 30 then plateaued at 80%; there was greater delay to diagnosis in older patients; and comorbidities was higher with age-of-presentation, starting from early adulthood. The proportion of patients who presented with functional seizures decreased after 50. Ictal behavior did not substantially vary with age-of-presentation. CONCLUSION The time from onset to diagnosis increased with age-of-presentation, which may be related to increased comorbidities and the misconception that FS do not start in older age. The female predominance decreased nonlinearly with age. By age 30, most patients' seizures already had substantial association with unemployment. These findings emphasize that patients can develop functional seizures at any age. The rapid development of disability relatively early in life, which then stays at a high prevalence rate, demonstrates the need for prompt referral for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
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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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Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures in Children and Adolescents. Indian Pediatr 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13312-021-2167-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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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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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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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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Gasparini S, Beghi E, Ferlazzo E, Beghi M, Belcastro V, Biermann KP, Bottini G, Capovilla G, Cervellione RA, Cianci V, Coppola G, Cornaggia CM, De Fazio P, De Masi S, De Sarro G, Elia M, Erba G, Fusco L, Gambardella A, Gentile V, Giallonardo AT, Guerrini R, Ingravallo F, Iudice A, Labate A, Lucenteforte E, Magaudda A, Mumoli L, Papagno C, Pesce GB, Pucci E, Ricci P, Romeo A, Quintas R, Sueri C, Vitaliti G, Zoia R, Aguglia U. Management of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures: a multidisciplinary approach. Eur J Neurol 2018; 26:205-e15. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.13818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Bursch B, Forgey M, Emerson ND, Siddarth P, Weisbrot DM, Shaw RJ, Doss J, Falcone T, Hinman K, LaFrance WC, Laptook R, Willis MD, Deggelman EL, Caplan R, Plioplys S. Sibling-Controlled Study of Parental Bonding, Coping, and Urgent Health-Care Use in Families With Children With Nonepileptic Seizures. J Pediatr Psychol 2018; 43:1128-1137. [PMID: 29992307 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsy050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Pediatric psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is a functional somatic symptom condition with significant health-care service burden. While both family and individual factors play an important role in the development and maintenance of PNES, little is known about what predicts urgent health-care use in families with children who have PNES. The aim of the current study was to explore whether child coping and parental bonding styles influence the decision to seek urgent medical care in these families. Methods Data were analyzed from youth of age 8-18 years, 47 with PNES, and their 25 sibling controls. Parents provided the number of youth emergency room visits and hospitalizations in the preceding year. Youth completed a questionnaire about their coping styles and a measure about their mothers' and fathers' bonding styles. Using a mixed model with family as a random effect, we regressed urgent health-care use on participant type (youth with PNES or sibling), parental bonding style, and youth coping style, controlling for number of child prescription medications. Results Higher urgent health-care use was associated with having PNES, coping via monitoring, and perceiving one's father to be rejecting and overprotective. Lower urgent health-care use was associated with coping via venting and with perceiving one's mother to be caring and overprotective. Conclusions This study provides preliminary empirical support for family-based clinical efforts to reduce child urgent health-care use by enhancing effective child coping skills and improving parental response to child impairment and distress in families with youth with PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Bursch
- David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
| | - Marcy Forgey
- David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
| | - Natacha D Emerson
- David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
| | - Prabha Siddarth
- David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Elissa L Deggelman
- David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
| | - Rochelle Caplan
- David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
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Madaan P, Gulati S, Chakrabarty B, Sapra S, Sagar R, Mohammad A, Pandey R, Tripathi M. Clinical spectrum of psychogenic non epileptic seizures in children; an observational study. Seizure 2018; 59:60-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2018.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures is a complicated biopsychosocial disorder with significant morbidity and high cost in children's social, emotional, family, and academic functioning as well as health care service utilization. Misdiagnosis and diagnostic delay, resulting from both lack of access to approved standards for diagnosing and service providers comfortable with diagnosing and treating this disorder, impact prognosis. Treatment in close proximity to symptom onset is thought to provide the best chance for remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L Doss
- Department of Psychology, Minnesota Epilepsy Group, 225 Smith Avenue North, Suite 201, St Paul, MN 55102, USA.
| | - Sigita Plioplys
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Pediatric Neuropsychiatry Clinic, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 10, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Takasaki K, Diaz Stransky A, Miller G. Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures: Diagnosis, Management, and Bioethics. Pediatr Neurol 2016; 62:3-8. [PMID: 27400821 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2016.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis and management of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is often challenging and fraught with discord and disagreement between patients, parents, and physicians. Furthermore, there are ethical challenges when making the diagnosis, communicating this information, and instituting management. METHODS We reviewed the current body of knowledge regarding the characteristic differences between epileptic seizures and PNES, and the high incidence of psychiatric comorbidities. An ethical analysis was made of diagnosis and management based on ethical principles, virtue ethics, and the social contract that health professionals have with patients. RESULTS Key distinctions between PNES and epilepsy lie in both patient and seizure characteristics. Long duration, eye closure, asynchronous movements, frequent recurrence in the same context, intra-ictal awareness, and lack of post ictal state are useful in helping establish the diagnosis. Psychiatric comorbidities, history of abuse, cognitive impairment, and multiple non specific somatic complaints are some salient patient features that should increase suspicion for the diagnosis of PNES. However, definitive diagnosis rests on capturing the events on video EEG. CONCLUSION Effective diagnosis and management of PNES requires the use of video EEG and an early collaborative approach between pediatricians, neurologists, psychiatrists, nursing staff, and other professional colleagues. Ethical questions that may arise should be addressed with the virtues of competence, courage, compassion, prudence, and honesty; and the principles of respect beneficence, and the avoidance of unnecessary harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoru Takasaki
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Andrea Diaz Stransky
- Child Study Center, Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Geoffrey Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Program for Biomedical Ethics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
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Psychogenic Paroxysmal Nonepileptic Events in Children: A Review. Pediatr Neurol 2015; 53:13-22. [PMID: 25987362 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2015.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paroxysmal nonepileptic events are common in children. Events with a psychological basis, historically referred to as pseudoseizures, are a large subset of paroxysmal nonepileptic events. METHODS A review of the relevant pediatric and adult literature was performed. RESULTS It was found that these events have many semioloigc features similar to epileptic events and can be challenging to correctly identify. The use of a detailed history in combination with video encephalography and knowledge of psychogenic paroxysmal nonepileptic events will facilitate making the correct diagnosis. Paroxysmal nonepileptic events are important to identify as comorbid disorders such as depression, anxiety disorder, family discord, and school issues are frequent. In addition, prior sexual, emotional, and/or physical abuse may be present. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric patients with paroxysmal nonepileptic events need to be recognized in order to avoid unnecessary antiepileptic drugs and emergency department or hospital visits and to facilitate appropriate psychological intervention to address the underlying etiologies. This review will focus on evaluation and identification of paroxysmal nonepileptic events, in addition to reviewing the various comorbidities, effective treatments, and outcomes for pediatric patients. The key differences between pediatric and adult patients with paroxysmal nonepileptic events are addressed.
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Right Frontal Pole Cortical Thickness and Social Competence in Children With Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2015; 30:E24-31. [DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Plioplys S, Doss J, Siddarth P, Bursch B, Falcone T, Forgey M, Hinman K, LaFrance WC, Laptook R, Shaw RJ, Weisbrot DM, Willis MD, Caplan R. A multisite controlled study of risk factors in pediatric psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsia 2014; 55:1739-47. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sigita Plioplys
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago; Northwestern University; Chicago Illinois U.S.A
| | - Julia Doss
- Psychology; Minnesota Epilepsy Group; Minneapolis Minnesota U.S.A
| | - Prabha Siddarth
- Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences; David Geffen School of Medicine; UCLA; Los Angeles California U.S.A
| | - Brenda Bursch
- Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences; David Geffen School of Medicine; UCLA; Los Angeles California U.S.A
| | - Tatiana Falcone
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation; Neurologic Institute; Cleveland Ohio U.S.A
| | - Marcy Forgey
- Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences; David Geffen School of Medicine; UCLA; Los Angeles California U.S.A
| | - Kyle Hinman
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Lucile Packard Children's Hospital; Stanford University; San Francisko California U.S.A
| | - W. Curt LaFrance
- Department of Child and Family Psychiatry; Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University; Rhode Island Hospital; Rhode Island Rhode Island U.S.A
| | - Rebecca Laptook
- Department of Child and Family Psychiatry; Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University; Rhode Island Hospital; Rhode Island Rhode Island U.S.A
| | - Richard J. Shaw
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Lucile Packard Children's Hospital; Stanford University; San Francisko California U.S.A
| | - Deborah M. Weisbrot
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Stony Brook University Medical Center; Stony Brook New York U.S.A
| | - Matthew D. Willis
- Department of Child and Family Psychiatry; Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University; Rhode Island Hospital; Rhode Island Rhode Island U.S.A
| | - Rochelle Caplan
- Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences; David Geffen School of Medicine; UCLA; Los Angeles California U.S.A
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Cole CM, Falcone T, Caplan R, Timmons-Mitchell J, Jares K, Ford PJ. Ethical dilemmas in pediatric and adolescent psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 37:145-50. [PMID: 25022823 PMCID: PMC4170022 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To date, only a very narrow window of ethical dilemmas in psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) has been explored. Numerous distinct ethical dilemmas arise in diagnosing and treating pediatric and adolescent patients with PNESs. Important ethical values at stake include trust, transparency, confidentiality, professionalism, autonomy of all stakeholders, and justice. In order to further elucidate the ethical challenges in caring for this population, an ethical analysis of the special challenges faced in four specific domains is undertaken: (1) conducting and communicating a diagnosis of PNESs, (2) advising patients about full transparency and disclosure to community including patients' peers, (3) responding to requests to continue antiepileptic drugs, and (4) managing challenges arising from school policy and procedure. An analysis of these ethical issues is essential for the advancement of best care practices that promote the overall well-being of patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristie M Cole
- Department of Bioethics, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
| | - Tatiana Falcone
- Neurological Institute, Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
| | - Rochelle Caplan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 150 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Box 951761, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Jane Timmons-Mitchell
- Begun Center for Violence Prevention Research and Education, Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, 11402 Bellflower Road, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
| | - Kristine Jares
- Department of Social Work, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Paul J Ford
- Department of Bioethics, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; NeuroEthics Program, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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Reilly C, Menlove L, Fenton V, Das KB. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures in children: A review. Epilepsia 2013; 54:1715-24. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Colin Reilly
- Research Department; Young Epilepsy; Surrey; United Kingdom
| | - Leanne Menlove
- Research Department; Young Epilepsy; Surrey; United Kingdom
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Kanner AM, Schachter SC, Barry JJ, Hesdorffer DC, Mula M, Trimble M, Hermann B, Ettinger AE, Dunn D, Caplan R, Ryvlin P, Gilliam F, LaFrance WC, LaFrance WC. Depression and epilepsy, pain and psychogenic non-epileptic seizures: clinical and therapeutic perspectives. Epilepsy Behav 2012; 24:169-81. [PMID: 22632407 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2012.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The clinical manifestations of depression in people with epilepsy (PWE) are pleomorphic, often associated with anxiety symptoms and anxiety disorders. The ongoing debate of whether the clinical presentation of depression in PWE is unique to this neurologic disorder is reviewed. Comorbid depression can impact the recruitment of PWE for pharmacologic trials with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Yet, the impact of depression on the response of the seizure disorder to pharmacotherapy with AEDs and its impact on worse adverse events may bias the interpretation of the trial findings, particularly when depressed patients are included in the AED trials. PWE have a greater suicidal risk than the general population. This risk is mediated by multiple factors, and recent data from the FDA have imputed a potential pathogenic role to all AEDs. The recognition of patients at risk is reviewed. Yet, the validity of the FDA data has been questioned, and the status of this controversial question is analyzed. As in the case of epilepsy, depression and pain syndromes have a relatively high comorbidity. The negative impact of depression on pain is reminiscent of that of depression in PWE; furthermore, the high comorbidity may be also associated with the existence of common pathogenic mechanisms. Neurologists and in particular, epileptologists establish the diagnosis of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in whom a comorbid depressive disorder is very often identified. The role of depression in the course of PNES and its treatment are discussed. Scarce data are available on the treatment of depression in PWE. Thus, clinicians have had to adopt data from patients with primary depressive disorders. We outline a consensus strategy on the identification and treatment of depressive disorders in adult and pediatric patients with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres M Kanner
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, 1653 West Congress Parkway, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Neuropsychiatric disorders: does semiology of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures matter? Nat Rev Neurol 2012; 8:302-3. [PMID: 22546703 DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2012.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Abstract
This paper first summarizes the main findings of clinical studies conducted over the past two and a half decades on psychopathology (i.e., psychiatric diagnoses, behavior and emotional problems) in children with new onset and chronic epilepsy both with and without intellectual disability who are treated medically and surgically. Although impaired social relationships are core features of the psychiatric disorders found in pediatric epilepsy, few studies have examined social competence (i.e., social behavior, social adjustment, and social cognition) in these children. There also is a dearth of treatment studies on the frequent psychiatric comorbidities of pediatric epilepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders, and depression. Drs. Hamiwka and Jones then describe their current and planned studies on social competence and cognitive behavioral treatment of anxiety disorders, respectively, in these children and how they might mitigate the poor long-term psychiatric and social outcome of pediatric epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorie Hamiwka
- Division of Child Neurology, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Due to the increased prevalence of psychosomatic presentations and the difficulty of managing such patients, this article summarizes the latest findings for identifying individual and family risk factors, and new trends in the evaluation and management of pediatric patients with psychosomatic illness. RECENT FINDINGS Up to 50% of patients in pediatric care will complain of medically unexplained symptoms with significant functional and emotional impairment. Such patients place heavy burdens on the healthcare system (frequent utilization of health resources and hospitalizations, specialist consultations, unnecessary investigations, and treatments). Somatoform disorders in pediatric care are associated with risks for psychiatric co-morbidity (anxiety and depressive disorders), family conflict, parent-perceived ill health, and school problems/absenteeism. SUMMARY Gaining expertise in addressing pediatric psychosomatic illness can make a great difference in patients' life and in physicians' professional satisfaction. Effective treatment approaches involve a multidisciplinary approach to consolidate care and facilitate communication, target the patient/family's understanding of the mind-body relationship and their acceptance of the bio-psycho-social formulation and treatment, and utilize functional rehabilitation and cognitive behavioral therapy for the individual and family and management guidance for schools.
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Noeker M. Konversionsstörungen: Störungsbild, Diagnostik, Psychoedukation und Intervention. KINDHEIT UND ENTWICKLUNG 2011. [DOI: 10.1026/0942-5403/a000050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Konversionsstörungen umfassen nichtepileptische Anfälle sowie sensorische oder motorische Funktionsausfälle (Gangstörungen, Kraftverlust und Lähmung, Sprechstörungen) ohne organmedizinische Ursache. Sie nehmen in klassifikatorischer, ätiologischer und therapeutischer Hinsicht eine Zwischenstellung zwischen den somatoformen und dissoziativen Störungen ein. Bei hohen Raten psychopathologischer Vulnerabilität und Komorbidität können traumatische Erfahrungen, akute Belastungsfaktoren sowie aktuell überfordernde Entwicklungsaufgaben als Auslöser wirken. Besonders typisch ist ein emotional invalidierendes Familienklima, das den authentischen und direkten Ausdruck von Bedürfnissen und Befindlichkeiten des Kindes hemmt. Die Manifestation der Konversionssymptome erfüllt einerseits eine entlastende und verstärkende Funktion, erzeugt andererseits aber neue Belastungsfaktoren wie funktionelle Behinderung, Einschränkungen der sozialen und schulischen Teilhabe, hypochondrische Sorge vor einer unerkannten Grunderkrankung sowie Angst vor Stigmatisierung als Simulant oder psychisch Kranker. Ein Störungsmodell wird vorgestellt, das auch als Grundlage für einen Leitfaden zur klinisch-psychologischen Exploration, Anamneseerhebung, Fallkonzeption sowie das das Procedere der Diagnosemitteilung dient. Patientenorientierte Metaphern werden im Rahmen der Psychoedukation eingesetzt, um die Entstehung der Symptomatik trotz intakter neuronaler Reizleitung für Patient und Eltern nachvollziehbar zu gestalten. Die psychotherapeutische Intervention startet mit einer schrittweisen Wiederaufnahme altersgerechter Aktivitäten und Rollen. Physiotherapie zum Training der geschwächten Muskulatur wird initiiert, um dem Patienten ein Ritual anzubieten, das eine Wiederherstellung der Funktionsausfälle ohne Gesichtsverlust ermöglicht. Psychotherapeutische Strategien im engeren Sinne greifen die vorgegebene Dissoziation des Bewusstseins von der körperlichen Symptomatik auf. Altersgerecht wird dem Kind ein Persönlichkeitsanteil beschrieben, der die Symptomatik überwinden will, ein anderer Persönlichkeitsanteil wird gegenübergestellt, der die Konversionssymptomatik und dessen Anliegen repräsentiert. Der Therapeut entwickelt und moderiert mit dem Kind Lösungen, die geeignet sind, beide Persönlichkeitsanteile wieder neu zu integrieren und damit die Dissoziation zwischen Bewusstsein und körperlicher Symptomatik aufzulösen.
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