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Datta V, Blum AW. Forensic assessment of somatoform and functional neurological disorders. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2024; 42:163-175. [PMID: 38450761 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Functional neurological disorders (FND) and somatization are common in clinical practice and medicolegal settings. These conditions are frequently disabling and, if arising following an accident, may lead to claims for legal compensation or occupational disability (such as social security disability insurance). However, distinguishing FND and somatization from symptoms that are intentionally produced (i.e., malingered or factitious) may pose a major forensic psychiatric challenge. In this article, we describe how somatoform disorders and FND lie along a spectrum of abnormal illness-related behaviors, including factitious disorder, compensation neurosis, and malingering. We provide a systematic approach to the forensic assessment of FND and conclude by describing common litigation scenarios in which FND may be at issue. Forensic testimony may play an important role in the resolution of such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Datta
- Private Practice, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Austin W Blum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Sacramento, California, USA
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2
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Al-Sibahee EM, Hashim A, Al-Badri S, Al-Fatlawi N. Myths and facts about functional neurological disorders: a cross-sectional study of knowledge and awareness among medical students and healthcare professionals in Iraq. BMJ Neurol Open 2023; 5:e000470. [PMID: 37794883 PMCID: PMC10546105 DOI: 10.1136/bmjno-2023-000470] [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: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a complex condition with neurological symptoms but no clear structural or biochemical explanation. Myths and misconceptions about FND can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. This study aimed to assess knowledge and common myths about FND among medical students and practitioners. Methods Data were collected from 324 participants using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographics, general information about FND and myths about FND. Data were analysed using non-parametric tests and Spearman's r for correlations. Results The majority of participants were clinical-years medical students (65.1%) and female (59.6%). Overall, knowledge about FND was limited, with a mean score of 42.3% of correct answers. Common myths included the belief that FND is a psychological disorder and that patients feign symptoms. Knowledge scores differed significantly among different grades/experience levels, with postgraduate practitioners having the highest scores. There was a positive correlation between knowledge scores and confidence in managing FND. Conclusion This study highlights the prevalence of myths and misconceptions about FND among medical students and practitioners, emphasising the need for accurate education to improve diagnosis and management. Healthcare professionals should take a biopsychosocial approach to FND, considering the complex interplay between biological, psychological and social factors. Efforts to increase awareness and reduce stigma associated with FND are crucial for promoting better care. Targeted educational interventions may be beneficial to improve the understanding and management of FND among medical professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Essam M Al-Sibahee
- Department of Medicine, Neurology, University of Baghdad Bab al-Moadham Campus College of Medicine, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Hashim
- Department of Medicine, University of Baghdad Bab al-Moadham Campus College of Medicine, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Sajjad Al-Badri
- Department of Medicine, University of Baghdad Bab al-Moadham Campus College of Medicine, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Nabeel Al-Fatlawi
- Department of Medicine, University of Baghdad Bab al-Moadham Campus College of Medicine, Baghdad, Iraq
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Watson MM, Kerr WT, Bean M, Strom L. Functional Seizure Clinics: A Proposed Financially Viable Solution to the Neurologist Supply and Demand Mismatch. Neurol Clin Pract 2023; 13:e200179. [PMID: 37529298 PMCID: PMC10389173 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Projections from recent studies suggest that by 2025, there will not be enough neurologists to meet the demand in 41 states. In this study, we investigate the financial impact and improved access to care for persons with epilepsy that is possible by implementing a multidisciplinary treatment clinic for persons with functional seizures (FS), previously referred to as psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, thus separating those patients out of an epilepsy clinic. Methods This observational retrospective study used real-time data of 156 patients referred to an FS clinic integrated into a tertiary care epilepsy center to simulate its effect on epilepsy division access and finances. Access was measured using simulations of the number of return patient visits (RPVs) and new patient visits (NPVs) of patients with FS to a dedicated epilepsy clinic, based on survey results inquiring about the standard of care without the FS clinic. Finances were simulated using the resultant access multiplied by respective wRVU and reimbursement per CPT code. Results Treatment of 156 patients with FS in a multidisciplinary FS clinic resulted in 343 newly opened NPVs, reimbursement of $102,000, and 1,200 wRVUs in our dedicated epilepsy clinic. There were 686 RPVs, $103,000 in reimbursement, and 1,320 wRVUs. Relative to the total number of NPVs with epilepsy clinic epileptologists, 343 NPVs represent a biennial 15.5% increase in available new patient visit slots. Discussion Our findings describe the financial viability of integrating a treatment clinic for persons with FS by directing them to FS-specialized treatment and thereby increasing access for patients with probable epilepsy to the dedicated epilepsy clinic. This study provides a potential solution to the national mismatch in the supply and demand of neurologists and an initial framework to use for those who wish to establish or integrate FS services in their institution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan M Watson
- Department of Neurology (MMW, MB, LS), University of Colorado, Aurora; and Department of Neurology (WTK), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Wesley T Kerr
- Department of Neurology (MMW, MB, LS), University of Colorado, Aurora; and Department of Neurology (WTK), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Meagan Bean
- Department of Neurology (MMW, MB, LS), University of Colorado, Aurora; and Department of Neurology (WTK), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Laura Strom
- Department of Neurology (MMW, MB, LS), University of Colorado, Aurora; and Department of Neurology (WTK), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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Spagnolo PA, Johnson K, Hodgkinson C, Goldman D, Hallett M. Methylome changes associated with functional movement/conversion disorder: Influence of biological sex and childhood abuse exposure. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 125:110756. [PMID: 36958667 PMCID: PMC10205664 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation (DNAm), may represent an important mechanism implicated in the etiopathogenesis of functional movement/conversion disorder (FMD). Here, we aimed to identify methylomic variations in a case-control cohort of FMD and to uncover specific epigenetic signatures associated with female sex and childhood abuse, two key risk factors for FMD and other functional neurological disorders. Genome-wide DNAm analysis was performed from peripheral blood in 57 patients with FMD and 47 healthy controls with and without childhood abuse. Using principal component analysis, we examined the association of principal components with FMD status in abused and non-abused individuals, in the entire study sample and in female subjects only. Next, we used enrichment pathway analysis to investigate the biological significance of DNAm changes and explored differences in methylation levels of genes annotated to the top enriched biological pathways shared across comparisons. We found that FMD was associated with DNAm variation across the genome and identified a common epigenetic 'signature' enriched for biological pathways implicated in chronic stress and chronic pain. However, methylation levels of genes included in the top two shared pathways hardly overlapped, suggesting that transcriptional profiles may differ as a function of childhood abuse exposure and sex among subjects with FMD. This study is unique in providing genome-wide evidence of DNAm changes in FMD and in indicating a potential mechanism linking childhood abuse exposure and female sex to differences in FMD pathophysiology. Future studies are needed to replicate our findings in independent cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Primavera A Spagnolo
- Mary Horrigan Connors Center for Women's Health and Gender Biology, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kory Johnson
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Colin Hodgkinson
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David Goldman
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark Hallett
- Human Motor Control Section, Medical Neurology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Cope SR, Smith JG, El-Leithy S, Vanzan S, Pentland C, Pick S, Golder D, Hogwood P, Turner K, Billings J, Edwards MJ. MODIFI: protocol for randomised feasibility study of eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) for functional neurological disorder (FND). BMJ Open 2023; 13:e073727. [PMID: 37270188 PMCID: PMC10255051 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073727] [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: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Functional neurological disorder (FND) refers to an involuntary loss of control over and/or aberrant perception of the body. Common presenting symptoms are functional (non-epileptic) seizures, and functional motor disorder, for example, walking difficulties, weakness or tremor. Greater access to effective treatments would lead to reduced distress and disability; and reduce unnecessary healthcare costs.This study will examine eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) as a treatment for FND. EMDR is an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but its use for other conditions is growing. An FND-specific EMDR protocol will be tested, and if the intervention proves feasible with promising clinical outcomes, progression to a substantive study could take place. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Fifty adult patients diagnosed with FND will be recruited. It will be a single-blind randomised controlled trial with two arms: EMDR (plus standard neuropsychiatric care; NPC) and standard NPC. The two groups will be compared at baseline (T0), 3 months (T1), 6 months (T2) and 9 months (T3). Measures of feasibility include safety, recruitment, retention, treatment adherence and acceptability. Clinical outcome measures will assess health-related functioning/quality of life, ratings of FND symptoms and severity, depression, anxiety, PTSD, dissociation, service utilisation and other costs. Improvement and satisfaction ratings will also be assessed. Feasibility outcomes will be summarised using descriptive statistics. Exploratory analyses using (linear/logistic) mixed-effect models will examine the rate of change in the groups' clinical outcome measures across the four time-points.After the intervention period, a sample of participants, and clinicians, will be invited to attend semistructured interviews. The interviews will be analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the NHS West Midlands-Edgbaston Research Ethics Committee. Study findings will be published in open access peer-reviewed journals, presented at conferences, and communicated to participants and other relevant stakeholders. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05455450 (www. CLINICALTRIALS gov).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Cope
- South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, Tooting, UK
| | - Jared G Smith
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Clinical Research Unit, South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Sharif El-Leithy
- Traumatic Stress Service, South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Serena Vanzan
- Clinical Research Unit, South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Caitlin Pentland
- Clinical Research Unit, South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Susannah Pick
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | | | | | - Kati Turner
- South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, Tooting, UK
| | - Jo Billings
- Department of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mark J Edwards
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Blanco S, Mitra S, Howard C, Sumich A. Psychological trauma, mood and social isolation do not explain elevated dissociation in functional neurological disorder (FND). PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2022.111952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Rohatgi K, Agarwal V, Singh S, Gupta PK. Longitudinal outcome of Functional Neurological Disorder in Children and Adolescents in a Tertiary Care centre from Northern India. Asian J Psychiatr 2023; 79:103332. [PMID: 36423424 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2022.103332] [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: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
FND is common in Indian children and adolescents. Outcome related factors are not well known. With objective to study short-term outcome of FND, prospective, longitudinal, nine months follow-up study of 6-16 years was planned. Socioeconomic, clinical variables, I.Q. and personality traits at baseline and new psychiatric/physical illness, psychosocial factors and comorbidities during follow-up were assessed. Out of 68 children, scholastic (64.7%) and family problems (23.5%) were common psychosocial factors. After nine months,73% achieved remission. Reasons for non-remission were persistence of psychosocial factors and psychiatric comorbidities. A need arises for increasing awareness among general practitioners for early identification and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kopal Rohatgi
- Department of Psychiatry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, U.P., India.
| | - Vivek Agarwal
- Department of Psychiatry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, U.P., India.
| | - Shweta Singh
- Department of Psychiatry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, U.P., India.
| | - Pawan Kumar Gupta
- Department of Psychiatry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, U.P., India.
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8
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Hingray C, Ertan D, Reuber M, Lother A, Chrusciel J, Tarrada A, Michel N, Meyer M, Klemina I, Maillard L, Sanchez S, El‐Hage W. Heterogeneity of patients with functional/dissociative seizures: Three multidimensional profiles. Epilepsia 2022; 63:1500-1515. [PMID: 35305025 PMCID: PMC9790427 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Current concepts highlight the neurological and psychological heterogeneity of functional/dissociative seizures (FDS). However, it remains uncertain whether it is possible to distinguish between a limited number of subtypes of FDS disorders. We aimed to identify profiles of distinct FDS subtypes by cluster analysis of a multidimensional dataset without any a priori hypothesis. METHODS We conducted an exploratory, prospective multicenter study of 169 patients with FDS. We collected biographical, trauma (childhood and adulthood traumatic experiences), semiological (seizure characteristics), and psychopathological data (psychiatric comorbidities, dissociation, and alexithymia) through psychiatric interviews and standardized scales. Clusters were identified by the Partitioning Around Medoids method. The similarity of patients was computed using Gower distance. The clusters were compared using analysis of variance, chi-squared, or Fisher exact tests. RESULTS Three patient clusters were identified in this exploratory, hypothesis-generating study and named on the basis of their most prominent characteristics: A "No/Single Trauma" group (31.4%), with more male patients, intellectual disabilities, and nonhyperkinetic seizures, and a low level of psychopathology; A "Cumulative Lifetime Traumas" group (42.6%), with clear female predominance, hyperkinetic seizures, relatively common comorbid epilepsy, and a high level of psychopathology; and A "Childhood Traumas" group (26%), commonly with comorbid epilepsy, history of childhood sexual abuse (75%), and posttraumatic stress disorder, but also with a high level of anxiety and dissociation. SIGNIFICANCE Although our cluster analysis was undertaken without any a priori hypothesis, the nature of the trauma history emerged as the most important differentiator between three common FDS disorder subtypes. This subdifferentiation of FDS disorders may facilitate the development of more specific therapeutic programs for each patient profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coraline Hingray
- Department of NeurologyNancy Regional University Hospital CenterNancyFrance,National Center for Scientific ResearchResearch Center for Automatic ControlMixed Unit of Research 7039University of LorraineNancyFrance,Nancy Psychotherapeutic CenterUniversity Hospital Center for Adult Psychiatry of Greater NancyLaxouFrance
| | - Deniz Ertan
- National Center for Scientific ResearchResearch Center for Automatic ControlMixed Unit of Research 7039University of LorraineNancyFrance,Clinical Research UnitTeppe InstituteTain‐l’HérmitageFrance
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology UnitRoyal Hallamshire HospitalUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| | | | - Jan Chrusciel
- Public Health and Performance Territorial CenterTroyes Hospital CenterTroyesFrance
| | - Alexis Tarrada
- Department of NeurologyNancy Regional University Hospital CenterNancyFrance,National Center for Scientific ResearchResearch Center for Automatic ControlMixed Unit of Research 7039University of LorraineNancyFrance
| | - Nathalie Michel
- La Conception Hospital, Marseille University HospitalsPublic Assistance–Marseille HospitalsMarseilleFrance
| | - Mylene Meyer
- Department of NeurologyNancy Regional University Hospital CenterNancyFrance
| | - Irina Klemina
- Department of NeurologyNancy Regional University Hospital CenterNancyFrance
| | - Louis Maillard
- Department of NeurologyNancy Regional University Hospital CenterNancyFrance,National Center for Scientific ResearchResearch Center for Automatic ControlMixed Unit of Research 7039University of LorraineNancyFrance
| | - Stephane Sanchez
- Public Health and Performance Territorial CenterTroyes Hospital CenterTroyesFrance
| | - Wissam El‐Hage
- Mixed Unit of Research 1253iBrainNational Institute of Health and Medical ResearchUniversity of ToursToursFrance,Psychiatry Center, Tours Regional University Hospital CenterToursFrance
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García-Cabeza I, Epifanio MDM. ASTASIA-ABASIA, PSYCHOGENIC OR ORGANIC? IT ́S NOT EASY. ACTAS ESPANOLAS DE PSIQUIATRIA 2022; 50:160-162. [PMID: 35643974 PMCID: PMC10803837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Astasia-abasia was described by Paul Blocq as a psychogenic condition; later, several brain injuries have been described for its explanation too.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio García-Cabeza
- Servicio de Psiquiatría de Adultos HGU Gregrorio Marañón. Universidad Complutense de Madrid
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10
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Russell L, Abbass A, Allder S. A review of the treatment of functional neurological disorder with intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 130:108657. [PMID: 35390566 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this article was to raise awareness of an under-recognized but well-supported treatment for Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) termed Intensive Short-term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). There has been significant interest in the role of psychological mechanisms in FND onset and maintenance with specific evidence for maladaptive emotional processing. We outline how this supports the theoretical basis for ISTDP as an option in FND treatment and undertake a literature review of the current evidence base. We describe the application of ISTDP to FND illustrated through direct therapy transcripts. We conclude with reflections on the strengths and limitations of ISTDP as well as recommendations regarding future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Russell
- Clinical Health and Neuropsychology Department, Devon Partnership NHS Trust, Exeter, United Kingdom.
| | - Allan Abbass
- Centre for Emotions and Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Steven Allder
- Neurological Services, Re:Cognition Health, London, United Kingdom
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Sahota PBK, D’Mello RJ, Shanbhag V, Nanjundaswamy MH, Ganjekar S, Kashyap H, Chandra PS. Finding One’s Voice: Psychotherapy for Dissociative Motor Disorders in the Indian Context. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOTHERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10879-022-09538-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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12
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Schwingenschuh P, Espay AJ. Functional tremor. J Neurol Sci 2022; 435:120208. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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13
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Morsy SK, Aybek S, Carson A, Nicholson TR, Stone J, Kamal AM, Abdel-Fadeel NA, Hassan MA, Kanaan RAA. The relationship between types of life events and the onset of functional neurological (conversion) disorder in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychol Med 2022; 52:401-418. [PMID: 34819179 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721004669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Adverse life events precede the onset of functional neurological disorder (FND, also known as conversion disorder) more commonly than other neuropsychiatric conditions, but their aetiological role is unclear. We conducted a systematic review and quantitative analysis of the type, timing and number of life events preceding the onset of FND in adults, and a meta-analysis of the proportions of types of events in controlled studies. Fifty-one studies of different designs, covering 4247 patients, were eligible for inclusion. There was no clear majority of any type of preceding event. Family problems were the most common category of events, followed by relationship problems. Females were more likely to experience preceding family/relationship problems than males, who reported more work problems. Family problems were the commonest type of preceding event in studies in developing countries, whereas family and health problems were equally common in developed countries. Abuse was associated with early symptom onset, while patients with later onset were more likely to report family problems. The median number of events was one, and the events occurred closer to onset than in controls. Meta-analysis found that family, relationship and work events were all relatively more common in patients than pathological controls, as were events where symptoms might provide a solution to the stressor. In conclusion, although a range of events precede the onset of FND, they do not appear to do so uniformly. This may support a different aetiological role for stressors than in other disorders, although the support is indirect and the quality generally low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimaa K Morsy
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia61519, Egypt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Selma Aybek
- Psychosomatic Medicine, Neurology Department, University Hospital Inselspital, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alan Carson
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Timothy R Nicholson
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jon Stone
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ahmed M Kamal
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia61519, Egypt
| | | | - Maha A Hassan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia61519, Egypt
| | - Richard A A Kanaan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
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14
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Paredes-Echeverri S, Guthrie AJ, Perez DL. Toward a possible trauma subtype of functional neurological disorder: Impact on symptom severity and physical health. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1040911. [PMID: 36458126 PMCID: PMC9706184 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1040911] [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: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a group, individuals with functional neurological disorder (FND) report an approximately 3-fold increase in adverse life experiences (ALEs) compared to healthy controls. In patients with FND, studies have identified a positive correlation between symptom severity and the magnitude of ALEs. While not all individuals with FND report ALEs, such findings raise the possibility of a trauma-subtype of FND. OBJECTIVE This study investigated if patients with FND, with or without probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or significant childhood maltreatment, differed in their symptom severity and physical health. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-eight patients with FND were recruited (functional seizures, n = 34; functional movement disorder, n = 56). Participants completed self-report measures of symptom severity [Somatoform Dissociation Questionniare-20 (SDQ-20), Screening for Somatoform Disorders: Conversion Disorder subscale (SOMS:CD), Patient Health Questionniare-15 (PHQ-15)], physical health [Short Form Health Survey-36 (SF36-physical health)], childhood maltreatment [Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ)], and PTSD [PTSD Checklist-5 (PCL-5)]; a psychometric battery of other common predisposing vulnerabilities was also completed. To adjust for multiple comparisons, a Bonferroni correction was applied to all univariate analyses. RESULTS Patients with FND and probable PTSD (n = 33) vs. those without probable PTSD (n = 43) had statistically significant increased scores on all symptom severity measures - as well as decreased physical health scores. In secondary post-hoc regression analyses, these findings remained significant adjusting for age, sex, race, college education, and: pathological dissociation; alexithymia; attachment styles; personality characteristics; resilience scores; functional seizures subtype; or moderate-to-severe childhood abuse and neglect scores; SOMS:CD and SDQ-20 findings also held adjusting for depression and anxiety scores. In a separate set of analyses, patients with FND and moderate-to-severe childhood abuse (n = 46) vs. those without moderate-to-severe childhood abuse (n = 32) showed statistically significant increased SDQ-20 and PHQ-15 scores; in post-hoc regressions, these findings held adjusting for demographic and other variables. Stratification by childhood neglect did not relate to symptom severity or physical health scores. CONCLUSION This study provides support for a possible trauma-subtype of FND. Future research should investigate the neurobiological and treatment relevance of a FND trauma-subtype, as well as continuing to delineate clinical characteristics and mechanisms in individuals with FND that lack a history of ALEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Paredes-Echeverri
- Functional Neurological Disorder Research Group, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Andrew J Guthrie
- Functional Neurological Disorder Research Group, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David L Perez
- Functional Neurological Disorder Research Group, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Functional Neurological Disorder Unit, Division of Cognitive Behavioral Neurology, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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von Mücke-Heim IA, Walter I, Nischwitz S, Erhardt A. Combined Fainting and Psychogenic Non-epileptic Seizures as Significant Therapy Hurdles in Blood-Injury-Injection Phobia: A Mini-Review and Case Report. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:915058. [PMID: 35903630 PMCID: PMC9314666 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.915058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety disorders are the most frequent mental disorders. Among the different subtypes, specific phobias are the commonest. Due to the ongoing SARS-CoV-19 pandemic, blood-injury-injection phobia (BII) has gained wider attention in the context of large-scale vaccination campaigns and public health. In this BII phobia mini-review and case report, we describe the successful treatment of a severe BII phobia case with combined fainting and psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and demonstrate the role of specialized outpatient care. CASE REPORT The patient was a 28-year-old woman. She suffered from intense fear and recurrent fainting with regard to needles, injections, injuries, and at the sight of blood since early childhood. Medical history revealed infrequent events suggestive of PNES following panic attacks after sustained exposure to phobic stimuli. Family history was positive for circulation problems and BII fears. Psychopathological evaluation confirmed BII phobia symptoms and diagnosis was made according to the DSM-5. The Multidimensional Blood/Injury Phobia Inventory short version (MBPI-K) revealed severe manifestation of the disease. Neurological examination was ordinary. Repeated electroencephalography detected no epileptic pattern. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed normal morphology. Treatment was carried out by a seasoned, multidisciplinary team. Cognitive behavior therapy and exposure were performed. Modification of standard treatment protocol was necessary due to hurdles posed by recurrent fainting and a severe panic-triggered dissociative PNES during in vivo exposure. Modification was implemented by limiting in vivo exposure intensity to moderate anxiety levels. In addition to applied muscle tension and ventilation techniques, increased psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and distress tolerance skills (e.g., ice pack, verbal self-instructions) were used to strengthen the patient's situational control during in vivo exposure. A total of 15 sessions were performed. Therapy success was proven by 83% reduction in MBPI-K rating, SARS-CoV-19 vaccination, and a blood draw without psychological assistance, fainting, or seizure. CONCLUSION Taken together, this case demonstrates the potential of and need for specialized outpatient care and individualized treatment for severe BII phobia patients in order to provide them the perspective to have necessary medical procedures done and get vaccinated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iven-Alex von Mücke-Heim
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Outpatient Clinic, Munich, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry (IMPRS-TP), Munich, Germany
| | - Isabelle Walter
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Outpatient Clinic, Munich, Germany
| | - Sandra Nischwitz
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Outpatient Clinic, Munich, Germany
| | - Angelika Erhardt
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Outpatient Clinic, Munich, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry, Clinical Anxiety Research, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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A historical review of functional neurological disorder and comparison to contemporary models. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2021; 16:100489. [PMID: 34755104 PMCID: PMC8564048 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2021.100489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the centuries, various etiologies have been proposed to explain functional neurological disorders (FND), including functional seizures. These have included models relying on supernatural influences upon the body, emphasis on consequences of malfunctioning reproductive organs, the bodily expression of painful emotions involving traumatic memories, or cognitive distortions through attention and predictive biases. Many theorists, especially since the 19th century, have had overlapping themes that continue to be relevant in modern clinical use. Treatments developed in accordance with different conceptual mechanisms. Given the heterogeneity of the disorder and the variable response to individual treatments obtained through history, physicians must consider symptom expression of an FND as an overestimation. An appreciation of multiple theories allows flexible development of unique treatment plans for individual patients.
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Stroink L, Mens E, Ooms MHP, Visser S. Maladaptive schemas of patients with functional neurological symptom disorder. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 29:933-940. [PMID: 34585455 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The psychological underpinnings of functional neurological symptom disorders (FNSD) remain poorly understood. A disintegration of explicit and implicit information processing in patients with FNSD has previously been suggested; however, this suggestion has so far received little empirical support. Trauma and maladaptive schemas probably reinforce disintegration in FNSD. The present study explored the occurrence of maladaptive schemas and investigated the impact of trauma-related maladaptive schemas in patients with FNSD. METHODS Forty-eight FNSD patients were assessed at the start of treatment using the Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ-2) to explore maladaptive schemas. The Life Event Checklist (LEC-5) and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) were used to explore trauma states, and the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP-68) was used to measure health dysfunction. RESULTS The self-sacrifice schema scored within a clinically relevant range where no increased scores were found in other maladaptive schemas. Linear regression models showed a positive association between mistrust/abuse and severity of health dysfunction. DISCUSSION Results suggest that maladaptive schemas play a modest role in FNSD at the start of treatment. It is suggested to examine the occurrence of maladaptive schemas in FNS-disordered patients with a longitudinal design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luuk Stroink
- Pro Persona Integrated Mental Health Care, Pro Persona Behavioral Science Institute, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Mens
- Department of Research and Development, Heliomare Rehabilitation Center, Wijk aan Zee, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn H P Ooms
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Klimmendaal Rehabilitation Medical Center, Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | - Sako Visser
- Pro Persona Integrated Mental Health Care, Pro Persona Behavioral Science Institute, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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18
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Perez DL, Aybek S, Popkirov S, Kozlowska K, Stephen CD, Anderson J, Shura R, Ducharme S, Carson A, Hallett M, Nicholson TR, Stone J, LaFrance WC, Voon V. A Review and Expert Opinion on the Neuropsychiatric Assessment of Motor Functional Neurological Disorders. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2021; 33:14-26. [PMID: 32778007 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.19120357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Functional neurological (conversion) disorder (FND) is a prevalent and disabling condition at the intersection of neurology and psychiatry. Advances have been made in elucidating an emerging pathophysiology for motor FND, as well as in identifying evidenced-based physiotherapy and psychotherapy treatments. Despite these gains, important elements of the initial neuropsychiatric assessment of functional movement disorders (FND-movt) and functional limb weakness/paresis (FND-par) have yet to be established. This is an important gap from both diagnostic and treatment planning perspectives. In this article, the authors performed a narrative review to characterize clinically relevant variables across FND-movt and FND-par cohorts, including time course and symptom evolution, precipitating factors, medical and family histories, psychiatric comorbidities, psychosocial factors, physical examination signs, and adjunctive diagnostic tests. Thereafter, the authors propose a preliminary set of clinical content that should be assessed during early-phase patient encounters, in addition to identifying physical signs informing diagnosis and potential use of adjunctive tests for challenging cases. Although clinical history should not be used to make a FND diagnosis, characteristics such as acute onset, precipitating events (e.g., injury and surgery), and a waxing and waning course (including spontaneous remissions) are commonly reported. Active psychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety) and ongoing psychosocial stressors also warrant evaluation. Positive physical examination signs (e.g., Hoover's sign and tremor entrainment) are key findings, as one of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. The neuropsychiatric assessment proposed emphasizes diagnosing FND by using "rule-in" physical signs while also considering psychiatric and psychosocial factors to aid in the development of a patient-centered treatment plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Perez
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Selma Aybek
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Stoyan Popkirov
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Kasia Kozlowska
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Christopher D Stephen
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Jordan Anderson
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Robert Shura
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Simon Ducharme
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Alan Carson
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Mark Hallett
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Timothy R Nicholson
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Jon Stone
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Valerie Voon
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
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- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
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19
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Early-life trauma endophenotypes and brain circuit-gene expression relationships in functional neurological (conversion) disorder. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:3817-3828. [PMID: 32051548 PMCID: PMC7423688 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0665-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Functional neurological (conversion) disorder (FND) is a neuropsychiatric condition whereby individuals present with sensorimotor symptoms incompatible with other neurological disorders. Early-life maltreatment (ELM) is a risk factor for developing FND, yet few studies have investigated brain network-trauma relationships in this population. In this neuroimaging-gene expression study, we used two graph theory approaches to elucidate ELM subtype effects on resting-state functional connectivity architecture in 30 patients with motor FND. Twenty-one individuals with comparable depression, anxiety, and ELM scores were used as psychiatric controls. Thereafter, we compared trauma endophenotypes in FND with regional differences in transcriptional gene expression as measured by the Allen Human Brain Atlas (AHBA). In FND patients only, we found that early-life physical abuse severity, and to a lesser extent physical neglect, correlated with corticolimbic weighted-degree functional connectivity. Connectivity profiles influenced by physical abuse occurred in limbic (amygdalar-hippocampal), paralimbic (cingulo-insular and ventromedial prefrontal), and cognitive control (ventrolateral prefrontal) areas, as well as in sensorimotor and visual cortices. These findings held adjusting for individual differences in depression/anxiety, PTSD, and motor phenotypes. In FND, physical abuse also correlated with amygdala and insula coupling to motor cortices. In exploratory analyses, physical abuse correlated connectivity maps overlapped with the AHBA spatial expression of three gene clusters: (i) neuronal morphogenesis and synaptic transmission genes in limbic/paralimbic areas; (ii) locomotory behavior and neuronal generation genes in left-lateralized structures; and (iii) nervous system development and cell motility genes in right-lateralized structures. These circuit-specific architectural profiles related to individual differences in childhood physical abuse burden advance our understanding of the pathophysiology of FND.
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20
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Spagnolo PA, Garvey M, Hallett M. A dimensional approach to functional movement disorders: Heresy or opportunity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 127:25-36. [PMID: 33848511 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Functional movement disorders (FMD) are a common and disabling neuropsychiatric condition, part of the spectrum of functional neurological/conversion disorder. FMD represent one of the most enigmatic disorders in the history of medicine. However, in the twenty years after the first report of distinctive abnormal brain activity associated with functional motor symptoms, there have been tremendous advances in the pathophysiologic understanding of these disorders. FMD can be characterized as a disorder of aberrant neurocircuitry interacting with environmental and genetic factors. These developments suggest that research on FMD could be better served by an integrative, neuroscience-based approach focused on functional domains and their neurobiological substrates. This approach has been developed in 'Research Domain Criteria' (RDoC) project, which promotes a dimensional approach to psychiatric disorders. Here, we use the RDoC conceptualization to review recent neuroscience research on FMD, focusing on the domains most relevant to these disorders. We discuss how the adoption of a similar integrative framework may facilitate the identification of the mechanisms underlying FMD and could also have potential clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Primavera A Spagnolo
- Mary Horrigan Connors Center for Women's Health and Gender Biology, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Human Motor Control Section, Medical Neurology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Marjorie Garvey
- Novel Strategies for Treatment of Developmental Psychopathology Program, Biomarker and Intervention Development for Childhood-Onset Mental Disorders Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark Hallett
- Human Motor Control Section, Medical Neurology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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21
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Liang F, Xu Q, Jiang M, Feng R, Jiang S, Yuan B, Xu S, Wu T, Wang F, Huang JH. Emotion Induced Monoamine Neuromodulator Release Affects Functional Neurological Disorders. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:633048. [PMID: 33659255 PMCID: PMC7917220 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.633048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional neurologic disorders (FNDs), also called conversion disorder (previously called hysteria), can show almost all the symptoms of other neurological diseases, including both physical (for example, seizure, weakness, fatigue) and psychological (for instance, depression, anxiety) symptoms. In spite of our general knowledge about emotional processes and developmental defects in the formation of these somatic symptoms, there is still no systemic and comprehensive research on the effects of emotional developmental variables in FND. Recently, both experimental and theoretical emotion studies have been greatly increased, such as prediction error, conceptual act model, basic emotional theory, and monoamine neuromodulator based three primary emotions. In addition, a large amount of evidence has confirmed the role of psychosocial adversity (such as stressful life events, interpersonal difficulties) as an important risk factor for FND. Here, we review recent advances about emotional stress on FND, and pay special attention to the effects of monoamine neuromodulators, such as how norepinephrine and serotonin affect behaviors. Then, we discuss the significance of these changes for FND, which may contribute to clarifying the pathogenesis of FND, and thus provide potential therapeutic drug targets or psychological intervention methods in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Liang
- Institute of Brain and Psychological Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiuyue Xu
- School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingchen Jiang
- School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Rou Feng
- Institute of Brain and Psychological Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Institute of Brain and Psychological Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shijun Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fushun Wang
- Institute of Brain and Psychological Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jason H Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor Scott & White Health, Temple, TX, United States.,Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Temple, TX, United States
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22
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Abstract
Functional or psychogenic seizures have proved a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for centuries. Functional seizures can look and feel similar to epileptic seizures but are instead a common and highly disabling form of functional neurologic disorder, or conversion disorder. Consistent with the biopsychosocial model of mental illness, functional seizures are caused by biological, psychological, and social factors unrelated to epileptic discharges. People with functional seizures do not consciously fake their symptoms. Functional seizures can be differentiated from epileptic seizures through the clinical history, features of the seizures themselves, and electroencephalography findings. Psychotherapy is effective in treating functional seizures.
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23
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Pun P, Frater J, Broughton M, Dob R, Lehn A. Psychological Profiles and Clinical Clusters of Patients Diagnosed With Functional Neurological Disorder. Front Neurol 2020; 11:580267. [PMID: 33178122 PMCID: PMC7593396 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.580267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Our understanding about underlying mechanisms leading to Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) has changed in recent years. While in the past these disorders were presumed to be solely due to psychological issues we know now that their development is dependent on complex interactions between biological, psychological and social factors. We present an analysis of clinical presentations and psychological profiles of patients who were seen in our FND outpatient clinic over 3 years. We aim to review the prevalence of common symptoms in the patients seen within our clinic, and to identify any common psychological or psychiatric profiles that differentiated these symptom groups. This may help to elucidate underlying mechanisms leading to the development of functional symptoms and identify the predisposing, triggering and perpetuation factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Pun
- Emotional Health Unit, Mater Misericordiae Health Services Brisbane Ltd, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Julanne Frater
- Emotional Health Unit, Mater Misericordiae Health Services Brisbane Ltd, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Megan Broughton
- Brisbane Clinical Neuroscience Centre, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Rian Dob
- Map and Mind Psychology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Alexander Lehn
- Department of Neurology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.,The University of Queensland Princess Alexandra Hospital Clinical School, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
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24
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Cretton A, Brown RJ, LaFrance WC, Aybek S. What Does Neuroscience Tell Us About the Conversion Model of Functional Neurological Disorders? J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 32:24-32. [PMID: 31619119 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.19040089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A dualistic mind-body understanding of functional neurological disorders (FNDs), also known as conversion disorders, has led to the view that the cause of the symptom should be either psychological (psychogenic) or physical (neurogenic-"organic"). One of the most influential psychological approaches is the Freudian model of conversion, which suggests that FNDs arise from a defense process in which emotional stress is converted into physical symptoms. This conversion theory has been challenged in recent years, accompanied by a shift in emphasis toward neuropathophysiological models of FND and away from historical psychological concepts. In this review, the authors consider the contemporary relevance of the conversion model from the neuroscientific perspective to reconcile the role of both psychological and biological factors in FND. A narrative review of recent neuroscientific findings pertaining to the conversion model of FND, encompassing neuroimaging, cognitive psychology, biological markers, and epigenetic studies, was performed. Research on the role of psychological stressors is discussed. Neurobiological mechanisms of repression of traumatic memories and their translation into physical symptoms are then explored. Finally, the role of physical symptoms as a potential protective defense mechanism against social stressors is considered. The authors argue that the conversion concept is consistent with recent neuroscientific research findings, and the model allows psychological and neurobiological concepts to be reconciled within a single account of FND that begins to resolve the dualistic mind-body dichotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Cretton
- The Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Cretton, Aybek); the School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Greater Manchester Mental Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); and the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (LaFrance)
| | - Richard J Brown
- The Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Cretton, Aybek); the School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Greater Manchester Mental Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); and the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (LaFrance)
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- The Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Cretton, Aybek); the School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Greater Manchester Mental Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); and the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (LaFrance)
| | - Selma Aybek
- The Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bern and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Cretton, Aybek); the School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Greater Manchester Mental Health National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom (Brown); and the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, R.I. (LaFrance)
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25
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Jones A, O'Connell N, David AS, Chalder T. Functional Stroke Symptoms: A Narrative Review and Conceptual Model. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 32:14-23. [PMID: 31726918 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.19030075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Stroke services have been reconfigured in recent years to facilitate early intervention. Throughout stroke settings, some patients present with functional symptoms that cannot be attributed to a structural cause. Emphasis on fast diagnosis and treatment means that a proportion of patients entering the care pathway present with functional symptoms that mimic stroke or have functional symptoms in addition to vascular stroke. There is limited understanding of mechanisms underlying functional stroke symptoms, how the treatment of such patients should be managed, and no referral pathway or treatment. Predisposing factors vary between individuals, and symptoms are heterogeneous: onset can be acute or insidious, and duration can be short-lived or chronic in the context of new or recurrent illness cognitions and behaviors. This article proposes a conceptual model of functional symptoms identified in stroke services and some hypotheses based on a narrative review of the functional neurological disorder literature. Predisposing factors may include illness experiences, stressors, and chronic autonomic nervous system arousal. Following the onset of distressing symptoms, perpetuating factors may include implicit cognitive processes, classical and operant conditioning, illness beliefs, and behavioral responses, which could form the basis of treatment targets. The proposed model will inform the development of theory-based interventions as well as a functional stroke care pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbeygail Jones
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
| | - Nicola O'Connell
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
| | - Anthony S David
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
| | - Trudie Chalder
- The Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London (Jones, Chalder); the Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin (O'Connell); and the Institute of Mental Health, University College London (David)
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26
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Levita L, Mayberry E, Mehmood A, Reuber M. Evaluation of LiNES: A New Measure of Trauma, Negative Affect, and Relationship Insecurity Over the Life Span in Persons With FND. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2020; 32:43-49. [PMID: 31865870 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.19050121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors evaluated potential predisposing vulnerabilities and perpetuating factors among individuals with functional neurological disorder (FND) by using the novel Lifespan Negative Experiences Scale (LiNES), which assesses retrospective self-report of interpersonal trauma, negative affect, and relationship insecurity at three developmental stages: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. METHODS The LiNES, Childhood Abuse and Trauma Scale (CATS), Relationship Scales Questionnaire (RSQ), and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) were administered to 71 individuals with FND. The reliability and validity of LiNES were examined by correlation with the other measures. FND patients' responses on LiNES were compared with those of 170 healthy control subjects. RESULTS LiNES scores in the FND group were internally consistent and correlated highly with CATS, RSQ, and PANAS scores. At each developmental stage, LiNES trauma scores were higher among patients with FND, compared with control subjects. The FND subgroup, which comprised patients who also had nonepileptic attack disorder, had higher trauma scores, compared with the FND-only subgroup. Compared with control subjects, patients with FND reported greater negative affect and relationship insecurity in adulthood. Lifetime LiNES scores for interpersonal trauma and relationship insecurity predicted FND group classification with >80% accuracy. CONCLUSIONS This study provides further support for the links between FND and trauma, negative affect, and insecure attachment. Recognition of these factors is likely to be important for treatment and stratification of important subpopulations in research. These findings provide new insights into the association between the timing of negative experiences and their effect, with LiNES emerging as a potentially useful measure for patients presenting with FND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat Levita
- The Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom (Levita); and Clinical Neuropsychology Services (Mayberry) and the Academic Neurology Unit (Mehmood, Reuber), University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Mayberry
- The Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom (Levita); and Clinical Neuropsychology Services (Mayberry) and the Academic Neurology Unit (Mehmood, Reuber), University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Aneesa Mehmood
- The Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom (Levita); and Clinical Neuropsychology Services (Mayberry) and the Academic Neurology Unit (Mehmood, Reuber), University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Markus Reuber
- The Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom (Levita); and Clinical Neuropsychology Services (Mayberry) and the Academic Neurology Unit (Mehmood, Reuber), University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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27
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Tinazzi M, Morgante F, Marcuzzo E, Erro R, Barone P, Ceravolo R, Mazzucchi S, Pilotto A, Padovani A, Romito LM, Eleopra R, Zappia M, Nicoletti A, Dallocchio C, Arbasino C, Bono F, Pascarella A, Demartini B, Gambini O, Modugno N, Olivola E, Di Stefano V, Albanese A, Ferrazzano G, Tessitore A, Zibetti M, Calandra-Buonaura G, Petracca M, Esposito M, Pisani A, Manganotti P, Stocchi F, Coletti Moja M, Antonini A, Defazio G, Geroin C. Clinical Correlates of Functional Motor Disorders: An Italian Multicenter Study. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2020; 7:920-929. [PMID: 33163563 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.13077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Functional motor disorders (FMDs) are abnormal movements that are significantly altered by distractive maneuvers and are incongruent with movement disorders seen in typical neurological diseases. Objective The objectives of this article are to (1) describe the clinical manifestations of FMDs, including nonmotor symptoms and occurrence of other functional neurological disorders (FND); and (2) to report the frequency of isolated and combined FMDs and their relationship with demographic and clinical variables. Methods For this multicenter, observational study, we enrolled consecutive outpatients with a definite diagnosis of FMDs attending 25 tertiary movement disorders centers in Italy. Each patient underwent a detailed clinical evaluation with a definition of the phenotype and number of FMDs (isolated, combined) and an assessment of associated neurological and psychiatric symptoms. Results Of 410 FMDs (71% females; mean age, 47 ± 16.1 years) the most common phenotypes were weakness and tremor. People with FMDs had higher educational levels than the general population and frequent nonmotor symptoms, especially anxiety, fatigue, and pain. Almost half of the patients with FMDs had other FNDs, such as sensory symptoms, nonepileptic seizures, and visual symptoms. Patients with combined FMDs showed a higher burden of nonmotor symptoms and more frequent FNDs. Multivariate regression analysis showed that a diagnosis of combined FMDs was more likely to be delivered by a movement disorders neurologist. Also, FMD duration, pain, insomnia, diagnosis of somatoform disease, and treatment with antipsychotics were all significantly associated with combined FMDs. Conclusions Our findings highlight the need for multidimensional assessments in patients with FMDs given the high frequency of nonmotor symptoms and other FNDs, especially in patients with combined FMDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Tinazzi
- Neurology Unit, Movement Disorders Division, Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Francesca Morgante
- Neurosciences Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Neurosciences Research Centre Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London London United Kingdom.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine University of Messina Messina Italy
| | - Enrico Marcuzzo
- Neurology Unit, Movement Disorders Division, Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences University of Verona Verona Italy
| | - Roberto Erro
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry-Scuola Medica Salernitana University of Salerno Baronissi Italy
| | - Paolo Barone
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry-Scuola Medica Salernitana University of Salerno Baronissi Italy
| | - Roberto Ceravolo
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Pisa Pisa Italy
| | - Sonia Mazzucchi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Pisa Pisa Italy
| | - Andrea Pilotto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences University of Brescia Brescia Italy.,FERB Onlus, Ospedale S. Isidoro, Trescore Balneario Bergamo Italy
| | - Alessandro Padovani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences University of Brescia Brescia Italy
| | - Luigi M Romito
- Parkinson and Movement Disorders Unit Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta Milan Italy
| | - Roberto Eleopra
- Parkinson and Movement Disorders Unit Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta Milan Italy
| | - Mario Zappia
- Department G.F. Ingrassia, Section of Neurosciences University of Catania Catania Italy
| | - Alessandra Nicoletti
- Department G.F. Ingrassia, Section of Neurosciences University of Catania Catania Italy
| | - Carlo Dallocchio
- Department of Medical Area Neurology Unit, ASST Pavia Pavia Italy
| | - Carla Arbasino
- Department of Medical Area Neurology Unit, ASST Pavia Pavia Italy
| | - Francesco Bono
- Botulinum Toxin Center Neurology Unit A.O.U. Mater Domini Catanzaro Italy
| | - Angelo Pascarella
- Botulinum Toxin Center Neurology Unit A.O.U. Mater Domini Catanzaro Italy
| | - Benedetta Demartini
- Aldo Ravelli Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Orsola Gambini
- Aldo Ravelli Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences University of Milan Milan Italy
| | | | | | - Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences University G. d'Annunzio Chieti-Pescara Italy
| | - Alberto Albanese
- Department of Neurology IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital Rozzano Italy
| | - Gina Ferrazzano
- Department of Human Neurosciences Università La Sapienza Rome Italy
| | - Alessandro Tessitore
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgery Sciences University of Campania - Luigi Vanvitelli Naples Italy
| | - Maurizio Zibetti
- Department of Neuroscience-Rita Levi Montalcini University of Turin Turin Italy
| | - Giovanna Calandra-Buonaura
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences University of Bologna Bologna Italy.,IRCCS, Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna Bologna Italy
| | - Martina Petracca
- Movement Disorder Unit Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS Rome Italy
| | - Marcello Esposito
- Clinical Neurophysiology Unit Cardarelli Hospital Naples Italy.,Department of Neurosciences Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples-Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Systems Medicine University of Rome Tor Vergata Rome Italy
| | - Paolo Manganotti
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Medical Surgical and Health Services, University of Trieste Trieste Italy
| | - Fabrizio Stocchi
- University and Institute of Research and Medical Care San Raffaele Roma Rome Italy
| | | | - Angelo Antonini
- Movement Disorders Unit, Department of Neuroscience University of Padua Padua Italy
| | - Giovanni Defazio
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health University of Cagliari Cagliari Italy
| | - Christian Geroin
- Neurology Unit, Movement Disorders Division, Department of Neurosciences Biomedicine and Movement Sciences University of Verona Verona Italy
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Joos A, Halmer R. Chronic Functional Tremor: Positive Signs in the Management, Including Mirror Therapy. Case Rep Neurol 2020. [DOI: 10.1159/000507567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional tremor (FT) is a common functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD) and difficult to treat. Diagnosis is often delayed in FNSD, which reinforces maladaptation and chronicity. The presented case, who had suffered from FT for 2 years, demonstrates the value of positive neurological symptoms in the diagnosis and treatment of FNSD, even in a chronic case. The patient improved well during integrated inpatient rehabilitation, which included mirror therapy (MT). He had complete suppressibility of the tremor during distraction, which was shown to him, and reversibility of the FT was emphasized. Due do the suppressibility when focusing on the contralateral arm, we installed MT as part of a combined inpatient neurological-psychotherapeutic rehabilitation treatment lasting 8 weeks. During treatment, some strong emotional themes came up. At the end of rehabilitation, the tremor almost completely subsided. Possible pathomechanisms are discussed. Future studies are recommended for determining the effectiveness of MT in FNSD with one-sided symptoms.
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Abstract
This article reviews common and clinically important neuropsychiatric aspects of epilepsy. Comorbidities are common, underdiagnosed, and powerfully impact clinical outcomes. Biological, psychological, and social factors contribute to the associations between epilepsy and neuropsychiatric disorders. Epidemiologic studies point to a bidirectional relationships between epilepsy and neuropsychiatric disorders. People with epilepsy are more likely to develop certain neuropsychiatric disorders, and those with these disorders are more likely to develop epilepsy. This relationship suggests the possibility of shared underlying pathophysiologies. We review the neuropsychiatric impact of antiseizure medications and therapeutic options for treatment. Diagnosis and treatment involve close collaboration among a multidisciplinary team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Tolchin
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, 15 York Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Epilepsy Center of Excellence, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Lawrence J Hirsch
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, 15 York Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - William Curt LaFrance
- Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Potter 3, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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30
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Attentional avoidance of emotions in functional movement disorders. J Psychosom Res 2020; 133:110100. [PMID: 32224346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Emotional difficulties are common in functional movement disorders (FMD), yet their contribution to the disease remains unclear. We explored the potential role of emotional difficulties as risk and maintaining factors of FMD by looking at the effect of emotions on attention. METHOD The dot-probe task was used to investigate attentional biases induced by emotional faces in 25 patients with FMD and 25 healthy controls (HC). A pair of faces, one emotional (happy, angry, sad) and the other neutral, was displayed on a monitor to either the left or the right side of a central fixation cross. The face disappeared and a dot was flashed in place of one of the faces. Participants had to indicate the location of the dot. All participants completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale. Psychological assessment of 23 patients also involved the Short Form Health Survey, the Hamilton Anxiety and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scales. RESULTS A general attentional bias away from emotional faces was noted for the FMD group compared to the HC. A more fine-tuned analysis revealed an attentional bias specifically away from sad faces for the FMD. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest a specific effect of emotions on attention in FMD that likely involves avoidance of sadness. Since this was not related to alexithymia or mood, we excluded these factors in explaining the results. Attentional bias away from sad faces correlated with general health, suggesting that avoidance of sadness might contribute to the perception of a better general health status in FMD.
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31
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Nonnekes J, Růžička E, Serranová T, Reich SG, Bloem BR, Hallett M. Functional gait disorders: A sign-based approach. Neurology 2020; 94:1093-1099. [PMID: 32482839 PMCID: PMC7455329 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000009649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional gait disorders are common in clinical practice. They are also usually disabling for affected individuals. The diagnosis is challenging because no single walking pattern is pathognomonic for a functional gait disorder. Establishing a diagnosis is based not primarily on excluding organic gait disorders but instead predominantly on recognizing positive clinical features of functional gait disorders, such as an antalgic, a buckling, or a waddling gait. However, these features can resemble and overlap with organic gait disorders. It is therefore necessary to also look for inconsistency (variations in clinical presentation that cannot be reconciled with an organic lesion) and incongruity (combination of symptoms and signs that is not seen with organic lesions). Yet, these features also have potential pitfalls as inconsistency can occur in patients with dystonic gait or those with freezing of gait. Similarly, patients with dystonia or chorea can present with bizarre gait patterns that may falsely be interpreted as incongruity. A further complicating factor is that functional and organic gait disorders may coexist within the same patient. To improve the diagnostic process, we present a sign-based approach-supported by videos-that incorporates the diverse clinical spectrum of functional gait disorders. We identify 7 groups of supportive gait signs that can signal the presence of functional gait disorders. For each group of signs, we highlight how specific clinical tests can bring out the inconsistencies and incongruencies that further point to a functional gait disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorik Nonnekes
- From the Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience (E.R., T.S.), First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology (S.G.R.), The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.R.B.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; andNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (M.H.), Bethesda, MD.
| | - Evžen Růžička
- From the Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience (E.R., T.S.), First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology (S.G.R.), The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.R.B.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; andNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (M.H.), Bethesda, MD
| | - Tereza Serranová
- From the Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience (E.R., T.S.), First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology (S.G.R.), The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.R.B.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; andNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (M.H.), Bethesda, MD
| | - Stephen G Reich
- From the Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience (E.R., T.S.), First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology (S.G.R.), The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.R.B.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; andNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (M.H.), Bethesda, MD
| | - Bastiaan R Bloem
- From the Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience (E.R., T.S.), First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology (S.G.R.), The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.R.B.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; andNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (M.H.), Bethesda, MD
| | - Mark Hallett
- From the Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Department of Rehabilitation (J.N.), Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience (E.R., T.S.), First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology (S.G.R.), The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology (B.R.B.), Radboud University Medical Centre, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; andNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (M.H.), Bethesda, MD
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Abstract
Neuropsychiatry is an integrative discipline defined by its history, its preferred patients, and its theoretic framework. Dealing with human behavior needs to consider the brain, but such consideration should avoid oversimplification: neurologic understanding is not essential, necessary, or desirable in all conditions encountered in clinical psychiatry. Neuropsychiatric theory is founded on discoveries in the areas of synaptic plasticity and cortical/limbic anatomy (bottom-up), but also evolutionary biology and anthropology (top-down). Going forward, we need to synthesize vital information, distinguish the essential from the trivial or tenuous, and remain open to dialogue with allied disciplines, our patients, and our students.
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Jones A, Smakowski A, O'Connell N, Chalder T, David AS. Functional stroke symptoms: A prospective observational case series. J Psychosom Res 2020; 132:109972. [PMID: 32126339 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.109972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Functional symptoms are a common mimic of stroke in acute stroke settings, but there are no guidelines on how to manage such patients and scant research on their clinical profile. We explore the presentation of patients with functional stroke symptoms at admission and 2-month follow-up. METHODS We conducted a prospective observational study across four SE London acute stroke units, with two-month follow-up. Demographic information, clinical data and GP attendances were recorded. Patients completed self-report measures: Cognitive Behavioural Responses Questionnaire short version, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Work and Social Adjustment Scale and Short Form Health Survey. RESULTS Fifty-six patients (mean age: 50.9 years) were recruited at baseline; 40 with isolated functional symptoms, the remaining functional symptoms in addition to stroke. Thirty-one completed self-report follow-up measures. Of 56 participants, 63% were female. Patients presented symptoms across modalities, with unilateral and limb weakness the most frequent. There was inconsistent and ambiguous recording of symptoms on medical records. Approximately 40% of patients reported levels of anxiety and depression above the threshold indicating a probable diagnosis. Higher anxiety was associated with greater resting or all-or-nothing behaviours, embarrassment avoidance and symptom focussing on the CBRQ. Only SF-36 physical functioning improved at follow-up. Less than 50% who responded at follow-up were accessing a treatment, though 82% had ongoing symptoms. CONCLUSION Patients with functional symptoms in stroke settings report substantial distress, associated with cognitive-behavioural responses to symptoms. Follow-up data suggest recovery can be slow, indicating access to supportive interventions should be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbeygail Jones
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Abigail Smakowski
- Persitent Physical Symptoms Clinical Research and Treatment Unit, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola O'Connell
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Institute of Population Health, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Trudie Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony S David
- UCL Institute of Mental Health, University College London, United Kingdom.
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34
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de Vroege L, Koppenol I, Kop WJ, Riem MME, van der Feltz-Cornelis CM. Neurocognitive functioning in patients with conversion disorder/functional neurological disorder. J Neuropsychol 2020; 15:69-87. [PMID: 32223071 PMCID: PMC8048909 DOI: 10.1111/jnp.12206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Neurocognitive symptoms are common in individuals with somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRD), but little is known about the specific impairments in neurocognitive domains in patients with conversion disorder (CD)/functional neurological disorder (FND). This study examines neurocognitive functioning in patients with CD/FND compared to patients with other SSRD. The sample consisted of 318 patients. Twenty‐nine patients were diagnosed with CD/FND, mean age 42.4, standard deviation (SD) = 13.8 years, 79.3% women, and 289 patients had other SSRD (mean age 42.1, SD = 13.3, 60.2% women). Patients completed a neuropsychological test battery that addressed a broad range of neurocognitive domains, including information processing speed, attention and executive functioning. Patients with CD/FND had clinically significant neurocognitive deficits in all neurocognitive domains based on normative data comparison. Patients with CD/FND also performed significantly worse than patients with other SSRD on information processing speed (Digit Symbol Substitution Test (V = .115, p = .035), Stroop Color–Word Test (SCWT) card 1 (V = .190, p = .006), and SCWT card 2 (V = .244, p < .001). No CD/FND vs. other SSRD differences were observed in other neurocognitive domains. These findings indicate the patients with CD/FND perform worse on information processing speed tests compared to patients with other SSRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars de Vroege
- Clinical Centre of Excellence for Body, Mind, and Health, GGz Breburg, Tilburg, the Netherlands.,Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Department, Tilburg University, the Netherlands
| | - Iris Koppenol
- Clinical Centre of Excellence for Body, Mind, and Health, GGz Breburg, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Willem Johan Kop
- Clinical Centre of Excellence for Body, Mind, and Health, GGz Breburg, Tilburg, the Netherlands.,Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychological and Somatic disorders (CoRPS), Tilburg University, the Netherlands
| | - Madelon M E Riem
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Center of Research on Psychological and Somatic disorders (CoRPS), Tilburg University, the Netherlands
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35
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Joos A, Halmer R, Leiprecht N, Schörner K, Lahmann C, Blahak C. [Functional neurological disorders: update and example of integrated inpatient treatment including mirror therapy]. DER NERVENARZT 2020; 91:252-256. [PMID: 31690969 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-019-00827-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Joos
- Zentrum für Psychische Erkrankungen, Klinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Deutschland.
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland.
| | - R Halmer
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland
| | - N Leiprecht
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland
| | - K Schörner
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland
| | - C Lahmann
- Zentrum für Psychische Erkrankungen, Klinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Deutschland
| | - C Blahak
- Klinik für Neurologie und Neurogeriatrie, Ortenau-Klinikum Lahr-Ettenheim, Lahr, Deutschland
- Neurologische Klinik, UniversitätsMedizin Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Mannheim, Deutschland
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36
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Kizilhan JI, Steger F, Noll-Hussong M. Shame, dissociative seizures and their correlation among traumatised female Yazidi with experience of sexual violence. Br J Psychiatry 2020; 216:138-143. [PMID: 32345408 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.2020.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survivors of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) captivity are at high risk of developing mental disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). AIMS This study looks at the correlation between sexual abuse, shame, somatoform or bodily distress disorders, and dissociative seizures (psychogenic non-epileptic seizures). METHOD The psychological effects of traumatic events and dissociative seizure were assessed in Yazidi women who were held captive by ISIS in Northern Iraq between 2014 and 2018. These effects were examined comparing 64 women who were held captive and sexually abused by ISIS with 60 women suffering from PTSD who were not held captive and sexually abused by ISIS. Structured clinical-psychological interviews and established psychometric questionnaires were used to assess mental disorders especially dissociative seizures and somatoform disorders, and shame related to trauma. RESULTS Women who were held captive by ISIS showed a significantly higher prevalence of dissociative seizures (43.7%; P = 0.02) and somatisation disorder (38.7%; P = 0.02), as well as depressive (75.0%; P = 0.42) and anxiety disorders (62.5%; P = 0.44), than women who were not held captive and sexually abused by ISIS. Dissociative disorders were identified in 40.6% (P = 0.36) of those female Yazidi who experienced sexual violence while being held captive. CONCLUSIONS Shame in connection with sexual violence seems to play an important role in negative self-perception after rape. Dissociation not only plays an important role in unprocessed childhood trauma with feelings of shame, but also in more recent trauma experiences with shame.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Ilhan Kizilhan
- Dean, Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology, University of Duhok, Iraq; and Director, Division of the Institute for Transcultural Health Science, State University Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Florian Steger
- Researcher, Division of Institute for Transcultural Health Science, State University Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Michael Noll-Hussong
- Researcher and Lecturer, Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Division of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Universitaetskliniken des Saarlandes; and Head, Division of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Universitaetskliniken des Saarlandes, Germany
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37
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O'Connell N, Nicholson TR, Wessely S, David AS. Characteristics of patients with motor functional neurological disorder in a large UK mental health service: a case-control study. Psychol Med 2020; 50:446-455. [PMID: 30773149 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291719000266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional neurological disorder (FND), previously known as conversion disorder, is common and often results in substantial distress and disability. Previous research lacks large sample sizes and clinical surveys are most commonly derived from neurological settings, limiting our understanding of the disorder and its associations in other contexts. We sought to address this by analysing a large anonymised electronic psychiatric health record dataset. METHODS Data were obtained from 322 patients in the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) who had an ICD-10 diagnosis of motor FND (mFND) (limb weakness or disorders of movement or gait) between 1 January 2006 and 31 December 2016. Data were collected on a range of socio-demographic and clinical factors and compared to 644 psychiatric control patients from the same register. RESULTS Weakness was the most commonly occurring functional symptom. mFND patients were more likely to be female, British, married, employed pre-morbidly, to have a carer and a physical health condition, but less likely to have had an inpatient psychiatric admission or to receive benefits. No differences in self-reported sexual or physical abuse rates were observed between groups, although mFND patients were more likely to experience life events linked to inter-personal difficulties. CONCLUSIONS mFND patients have distinct demographic characteristics compared with psychiatric controls. Experiences of abuse appear to be equally prevalent across psychiatric patient groups. This study establishes the socio-demographic and life experience profile of this understudied patient group and may be used to guide future therapeutic interventions designed specifically for mFND.
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Affiliation(s)
- N O'Connell
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - T R Nicholson
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - S Wessely
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A S David
- UCL Institute of Mental Health Studies, University College London, London, UK
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article reviews a practical approach to psychogenic movement disorders to help neurologists identify and manage this complex group of disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Psychogenic movement disorders, also referred to as functional movement disorders, describe a group of disorders that includes tremor, dystonia, myoclonus, parkinsonism, speech and gait disturbances, and other movement disorders that are incongruent with patterns of pathophysiologic (organic) disease. The diagnosis is based on positive clinical features that include variability, inconsistency, suggestibility, distractibility, suppressibility, and other supporting information. While psychogenic movement disorders are often associated with psychological and physical stressors, the underlying pathophysiology is not fully understood. Although insight-oriented behavioral and pharmacologic therapies are helpful, a multidisciplinary approach led by a neurologist, but also including psychiatrists and physical, occupational, and speech therapists, is needed for optimal outcomes. SUMMARY The diagnosis of psychogenic movement disorders is based on clinical features identified on neurologic examination, and neurophysiologic and imaging studies can provide supporting information.
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39
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Favourable outcome without psychotherapy in patients with functional neurologic disorder. J Clin Neurosci 2020; 71:141-143. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2019.08.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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40
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Baizabal-Carvallo JF, Jankovic J. Gender Differences in Functional Movement Disorders. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2019; 7:182-187. [PMID: 32071937 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Functional neurological disorders are generally more common in females than males, but the reason for this gender difference is not well understood. Objectives In this study, we aim to compare the clinical and demographic features of functional movement disorders (FMDs) between males and females. Methods We examined clinical data and video-recordings of patients with FMDs evaluated at the Baylor College of Medicine Movement Disorders Clinic. Results Of the 196 patients with FMDs, males represented only 30% (n = 59) of the entire cohort. Men had an older age at onset: 40.5 versus 34.1 years (P = 0.026) and an older age at evaluation: 43.8 versus 38.1 years (P = 0.041) compared to women. Functional dystonia was more frequently observed in women: 47.5 versus 20.3% (P < 0.001), but there was a trend for higher frequency of functional gait disorder in men: 44 versus 30% (P = 0.056). Females were particularly over-represented (73.7%) in children and adolescents; but the genders were equally represented in patients aged ≥50 years. Conclusions Female patients are over-represented in FMDs, except in individuals aged ≥50 years. Compared to female patients, males with FMDs present later in life and are less likely to have functional dystonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Fidel Baizabal-Carvallo
- Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology Baylor College of Medicine Houston Texas USA.,Department of Internal Medicine University of Guanajuato Leon México
| | - Joseph Jankovic
- Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology Baylor College of Medicine Houston Texas USA
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41
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Kletenik I, Sillau SH, Isfahani SA, LaFaver K, Hallett M, Berman BD. Gender as a Risk Factor for Functional Movement Disorders: The Role of Sexual Abuse. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2019; 7:177-181. [PMID: 32071936 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of functional movement disorders is 2 to 3 times higher in women than in men. Trauma and adverse life events are important risk factors for developing functional movement disorders. On a population level, rates of sexual abuse against women are higher when compared with the rates against men. Objectives To determine gender differences in rates of sexual abuse in functional movement disorders compared with other neurologic disorders and evaluate if the gender prevalence is influenced by higher rates of sexual abuse against women. Methods We performed a case-control series including 199 patients with functional movement disorders (149 women) and 95 controls (60 women). We employed chi-squared test to assess gender and sexual abuse associations and Bayes formula to condition on sexual abuse. Results Our analysis showed an association between sexual abuse and functional movement disorders in women (odds ratio, 4.821; 95% confidence interval, 2.089-12.070; P < 0.0001), but not men. Bayesian analysis found the functional movement disorder prevalence ratio between women and men conditional on sexual abuse to be 4.87 times the unconditioned ratio. Conclusions There is a statistically significant association between sexual abuse and functional movement disorders in women and a greater likelihood that women who are sexually abused will develop functional movement disorders than men who are sexually abused. Our findings suggest that the increased prevalence of functional movement disorders in women is associated, at least in part, with sexual abuse and its sequelae; however, further research is needed to explore the role of other traumatic and nontraumatic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaiah Kletenik
- Department of Neurology University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA.,Behavioral Neurology Section University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Stefan H Sillau
- Department of Neurology University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
| | - Sanaz Attaripour Isfahani
- Human Motor Control Section, Medical Neurology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke National Institutes of Health Bethesda Maryland USA
| | - Kathrin LaFaver
- Department of Neurology, Movement Disorder Division University of Louisville Louisville Kentucky USA.,Department of Neurology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Mark Hallett
- Human Motor Control Section, Medical Neurology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke National Institutes of Health Bethesda Maryland USA
| | - Brian D Berman
- Department of Neurology University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA.,Movement Disorders Center University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora Colorado USA
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Espay AJ, Aybek S, Carson A, Edwards MJ, Goldstein LH, Hallett M, LaFaver K, LaFrance WC, Lang AE, Nicholson T, Nielsen G, Reuber M, Voon V, Stone J, Morgante F. Current Concepts in Diagnosis and Treatment of Functional Neurological Disorders. JAMA Neurol 2019; 75:1132-1141. [PMID: 29868890 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2018.1264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 399] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Functional neurological disorders (FND) are common sources of disability in medicine. Patients have often been misdiagnosed, correctly diagnosed after lengthy delays, and/or subjected to poorly delivered diagnoses that prevent diagnostic understanding and lead to inappropriate treatments, iatrogenic harm, unnecessary and costly evaluations, and poor outcomes. Observations Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder/Conversion Disorder was adopted by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, replacing the term psychogenic with functional and removing the criterion of psychological stress as a prerequisite for FND. A diagnosis can now be made in an inclusionary manner by identifying neurological signs that are specific to FNDs without reliance on presence or absence of psychological stressors or suggestive historical clues. The new model highlights a wider range of past sensitizing events, such as physical trauma, medical illness, or physiological/psychophysiological events. In this model, strong ideas and expectations about these events correlate with abnormal predictions of sensory data and body-focused attention. Neurobiological abnormalities include hypoactivation of the supplementary motor area and relative disconnection with areas that select or inhibit movements and are associated with a sense of agency. Promising evidence has accumulated for the benefit of specific physical rehabilitation and psychological interventions alone or in combination, but clinical trial evidence remains limited. Conclusions and Relevance Functional neurological disorders are a neglected but potentially reversible source of disability. Further research is needed to determine the dose and duration of various interventions, the value of combination treatments and multidisciplinary therapy, and the therapeutic modality best suited for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto J Espay
- University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute, Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Selma Aybek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alan Carson
- Neuropsychiatry, Centre for Clinical Brain Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J Edwards
- Motor Control and Movement Disorders Group, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Hallett
- Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Kathrin LaFaver
- Department of Neurology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- Department of Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island.,Department of Neurology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Anthony E Lang
- Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Centre, Toronto Western Hospital and Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson Disease, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tim Nicholson
- Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Glenn Nielsen
- Motor Control and Movement Disorders Group, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Valerie Voon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Stone
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Morgante
- Motor Control and Movement Disorders Group, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Memory and motor control in patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 98:279-284. [PMID: 31419649 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are of the most elusive phenomena in epileptology. Patients with PNES present episodes resembling epileptic seizures in their semiology yet lacking the underlying epileptic brain activity. These episodes are assumed to be related to psychological distress from past trauma, yet the underlying mechanism of this manifestation is still unknown. Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we investigated functional connectivity changes within and between large-scale brain networks in 9 patients with PNES, compared with a group of 13 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Functional magnetic resonance imaging analyses identified functional connectivity disturbances between the medial temporal lobe (MTL) and the sensorimotor cortex and between the MTL and ventral attention networks in patients with PNES. Within network connectivity reduction was found within the visual network. Our findings suggest that PNES relate to changes in connectivity in between areas that are involved in memory processing and motor activity and attention control. These results may shed new light on the way by which traumatic memories may relate to PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A A Kanaan
- Department of Psychiatry, Austin Health,University of Melbourne,Heidelberg, VIC 3084,Australia
| | - Thomas K J Craig
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College,London,UK
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Keynejad RC, Frodl T, Kanaan R, Pariante C, Reuber M, Nicholson TR. Stress and functional neurological disorders: mechanistic insights. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2019; 90:813-821. [PMID: 30409887 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2018-318297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
At the interface between mind and body, psychiatry and neurology, functional neurological disorder (FND) remains poorly understood. Formerly dominant stress-related aetiological models have been increasingly challenged, in part due to cases without any history of past or recent trauma. In this perspective article, we review current evidence for such models, and how research into the role of traumatic stress in other disorders and the neurobiology of the stress response can inform our mechanistic understanding of FND. First, we discuss the association between stress and the onset or exacerbation of a variety of physical and mental health problems. Second, we review the role of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction in the neurobiology of ill-health, alongside evidence for similar mechanisms in FND. Third, we advocate a stress-diathesis model, in which biological susceptibility interacts with early life adversity, where FND can be precipitated by traumatic events later in life and maintained by psychological responses. We hypothesise that greater biological susceptibility to FND is associated with less severe remote and recent stress, and that FND precipitated by more severe stress is associated with lower biological vulnerability. This would explain clinical experience of variable exposure to historical and recent traumatic stress among people with FND and requires empirical investigation. A testable, evidence-based stress-diathesis model can inform nuanced understanding of how biological and psychological factors interact at the individual level, with potential to inform personalised treatment pathways. Much-needed research to establish the aetiology of FND will enhance clinical care and communication, facilitate effective treatment and inform prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne C Keynejad
- Section of Women's Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Frodl
- Department and Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Richard Kanaan
- Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, UK, London.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Austin, Heidelberg, Australia.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carmine Pariante
- Stress Psychiatry and Immunology Lab, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Timothy R Nicholson
- Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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46
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Joos A, Leiprecht N, Wiesand K, Schmidt R, Hartmann A. Integrated inpatient rehabilitation for patients with Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FNSD) - A specific group therapy. J Psychosom Res 2019; 120:102-104. [PMID: 30929699 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2019.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Joos
- Kliniken Schmieder, Departments of Psychotherapeutic Neurology in Gailingen and Konstanz, Auf dem Berg, 78262 Gailingen, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hauptstraße 8, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.
| | - N Leiprecht
- Kliniken Schmieder, Departments of Psychotherapeutic Neurology in Gailingen and Konstanz, Auf dem Berg, 78262 Gailingen, Germany
| | - K Wiesand
- Kliniken Schmieder, Departments of Psychotherapeutic Neurology in Gailingen and Konstanz, Auf dem Berg, 78262 Gailingen, Germany
| | - R Schmidt
- Kliniken Schmieder, Departments of Psychotherapeutic Neurology in Gailingen and Konstanz, Auf dem Berg, 78262 Gailingen, Germany
| | - A Hartmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hauptstraße 8, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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Zito GA, Apazoglou K, Paraschiv-Ionescu A, Aminian K, Aybek S. Abnormal postural behavior in patients with functional movement disorders during exposure to stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 101:232-239. [PMID: 30471572 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients affected by functional (psychogenic) movement disorders (FMD) have abnormal processing of stress responses. However, little is known about the influence of this abnormal stress processing on automatic motor defense behavior, such as freeze response. Our aim was thus to investigate stress-induced postural motor responses in FMD. METHODS Nine FMD patients and thirteen healthy controls were engaged in the Trier Social Stress Test, while we measured the movement of their body by means of accelerometers and gyroscopes attached to the thorax. Standard deviation of thorax acceleration, reflecting the variability of movement amplitude (body sway), was compared across groups over time in a 2 × 2 ANOVA design. Higuchi's fractal dimension (HFD), reflecting the complexity of movement pattern over time, was also analyzed. Salivary cortisol and α-amylase samples were collected before and after the experiment, as stress biomarkers. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated between these biomarkers and movement parameters. RESULTS A significant interaction effect was found, showing that healthy controls reduced their thorax sway over time during exposure to stress (from 0.027 ± 0.010 m/s2 to 0.023 ± 0.008 m/s2, effect size of Cohen's d = 0.95), whereas patients with FMD did not. This change in body sway in controls over time negatively correlated with salivary cortisol values (ρ = -0.67, p = 0.012). A significant group effect revealed that FMD patients had an overall larger body sway (0.038 ± 0.013 m/s2) compared to controls (0.025 ± 0.009 m/s2 - effect size of Cohen's d = 1.29) and a lower HFD (1.602 ± 0.071) than controls (1.710 ± 0.078 - Cohen's d = 1.43). CONCLUSIONS Patients with FMD failed to show a reduction of body sway over time, i.e., freeze response observed in the controls, thus suggesting an impairment in the automatic defense behavior. Moreover, our analysis found a lower complexity of movement (HFD) in FMD, which deserves future research in order to verify whether this could represent a characteristic trait of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Angelo Zito
- Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland; Support Centre for Advanced Neuroimaging (SCAN), University Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Kallia Apazoglou
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 24 rue du Général-Dufour, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Anisoara Paraschiv-Ionescu
- Laboratory of Movement Analysis and Measurement, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Route Cantonale, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Kamiar Aminian
- Laboratory of Movement Analysis and Measurement, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Route Cantonale, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Selma Aybek
- Department of Neurology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Freiburgstrasse, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 24 rue du Général-Dufour, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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48
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Baizabal-Carvallo JF, Hallett M, Jankovic J. Pathogenesis and pathophysiology of functional (psychogenic) movement disorders. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 127:32-44. [PMID: 30798005 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional movement disorders (FMDs), known over time as "hysteria", "dissociative", "conversion", "somatoform", "non-organic" and "psychogenic" disorders, are characterized by having a voluntary quality, being modifiable by attention and distraction but perceived by the patient as involuntary. Although a high prevalence of depression and anxiety is observed in these patients, a definitive role of psychiatric disorders in FMDs has not been proven, and many patients do not endorse such manifestations. Stressful events, social influences and minor trauma may precede the onset of FMDs, but their pathogenic mechanisms are unclear. Patients with FMDs have several abnormalities in their neurobiology including strengthened connectivity between the limbic and motor networks. Additionally, there is altered top-down regulation of motor activities and increased activation of areas implicated in self-awareness, self-monitoring, and active motor inhibition such as the cingulate and insular cortex. Decreased activation of the supplementary motor area (SMA) and pre-SMA, implicated in motor control and preparation, is another finding. The sense of agency defined as the feeling of controlling external events through one's own action also seems to be impaired in individuals with FMDs. Correlating with this is a loss of intentional binding, a subjective time compression between intentional action and its sensory consequences. Organic and functional dystonia may be difficult to differentiate since they share diverse neurophysiological features including decreased cortical inhibition, and similar local field potentials in the globus pallidus and thalamus; although increased cortical plasticity is observed only in patients with organic dystonia. Advances in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of FMDs may be helpful to understand the nature of these disorders and plan further treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Fidel Baizabal-Carvallo
- Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; University of Guanajuato, Mexico.
| | - Mark Hallett
- Human Motor Control Section, NINDS, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Joseph Jankovic
- Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Abstract
Although exaggeration or amplification of symptoms is common in all illness, deliberate deception is rare. In settings associated with litigation/disability evaluation, the rate of malingering may be as high as 30%, but its frequency in clinical practice is not known. We describe the main characteristics of deliberate deception (factitious disorders and malingering) and ways that neurologists might detect symptom exaggeration. The key to establishing that the extent or severity of reported symptoms does not truly represent their severity is to elicit inconsistencies in different domains, but it is not possible to determine whether the reports are intentionally inaccurate. Neurological disorders where difficulty in determining the degree of willed exaggeration is most likely include functional weakness and movement disorders, post-concussional syndrome (or mild traumatic brain injury), psychogenic non-epileptic attacks and complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (especially when there is an associated functional movement disorder). Symptom amplification or even fabrication are more likely if the patient might gain benefit of some sort, not necessarily financial. Techniques to detect deception in medicolegal settings include covert surveillance and review of social media accounts. We also briefly describe specialised psychological tests designed to elicit effort from the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Bass
- Department of Psychological Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Derick T Wade
- Nuffield Orthopaedic Hospital, Oxford Centre for Enablement, Oxford, UK
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50
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Papadopoulos NL, Röhricht F. A single case report of Body Oriented Psychological Therapy for a patient with Chronic Conversion Disorder. ARTS IN PSYCHOTHERAPY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aip.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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