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Underwood R, Falshaw L, McFarlane F. Psychoeducation interventions for people with non-epileptic seizures: A scoping review. Seizure 2024; 120:15-24. [PMID: 38889520 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2024.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other psychological approaches have a growing evidence base for treating Non-Epileptic Seizures (NES). However, communication about the diagnosis can be difficult for clinicians and is not always well received. It is thought that Psychoeducation about NES may improve engagement with treatment such as CBT and may contribute to reductions in the frequency of seizures and improvements in health related quality of life. However, psychoeducational components of treatment are often not evaluated in isolation meaning the specific benefit to patients is not currently well understood. AIMS The researchers aimed to examine the outcomes associated with psychoeducational interventions and the content of these programmes for NES. METHOD A scoping review was undertaken across four databases with seventeen eligible studies identified which were charted to analyse the data. RESULTS Findings revealed that components and modalities of interventions varied as did methods of evaluating the interventions. A number of different outcome measures were used and not all studies reported the significance of findings. Results across studies were inconsistent; however, there was a general trend across the studies of symptom reduction and improvement in mental health. CONCLUSIONS Findings illustrate that psychoeducation has potential benefits as an intervention in its own right. However, it may be best placed as a second step in a stepped care model, between initial diagnosis and further psychological treatment. The present literature needs replication and more robust studies for more certain conclusions to be drawn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Underwood
- Clinical Psychologist, The Oxford Institute for Clinical Psychology Training and Research, The Isis Education Centre, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Lawson Falshaw
- Clinical Psychologist, The Oxford Institute for Clinical Psychology Training and Research, The Isis Education Centre, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
| | - Fiona McFarlane
- Clinical Psychologist, The Oxford Institute for Clinical Psychology Training and Research, The Isis Education Centre, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK.
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2
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Carlson CA. Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures-High Mortality Rate Is a 'Wake-Up Call'. J Pers Med 2023; 13:892. [PMID: 37373881 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13060892] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with epilepsy have an elevated mortality rate compared to the general population and now studies are showing a comparable death ratio in patients diagnosed with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. The latter is a top differential diagnosis for epilepsy and the unexpected mortality rate in these patients underscores the importance of an accurate diagnosis. Experts have called for more studies to elucidate this finding but the explanation is already available, embedded in the existing data. To illustrate, a review of the diagnostic practice in epilepsy monitoring units, of the studies examining mortality in PNES and epilepsy patients, and of the general clinical literature on the two populations was conducted. The analysis reveals that the scalp EEG test result, which distinguishes a psychogenic from an epileptic seizure, is highly fallible; that the clinical profiles of the PNES and epilepsy patient populations are virtually identical; and that both are dying of natural and non-natural causes including sudden unexpected death associated with confirmed or suspected seizure activity. The recent data showing a similar mortality rate simply constitutes more confirmatory evidence that the PNES population consists largely of patients with drug-resistant scalp EEG-negative epileptic seizures. To reduce the morbidity and mortality in these patients, they must be given access to treatments for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Carlson
- Minnesota Judicial Branch Psychological Services Division, Minneapolis, MN 55487, USA
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3
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Leroy A, Tarrada A, Garcin B, Hingray C. Crisi psicogene non epilettiche (funzionali/dissociative). Neurologia 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(22)47362-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
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4
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Demirci OO, Sagaltici E. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing treatment in functional neurological symptom disorder with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: A study of two cases. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2021; 26:1196-1207. [PMID: 34353136 DOI: 10.1177/13591045211037276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Patients with functional neurological symptom disorder (FND) have many diverse symptoms including psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES), positive movements such as tremor, dystonia, or gait abnormalities, loss of motor function such as leg or arm paresis, and loss of sensory functions, such as blindness, deafness, or loss of feeling in the limbs. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy method that includes some techniques arising from psychodynamic, cognitive, and behavioral approaches. EMDR is known as a proven psychotherapeutic approach in post-traumatic stress disorder, but there are also numerous studies reporting its efficacy in other psychiatric disorders and trauma-associated symptoms, in patients with comorbid psychiatric disorders. This article presents the outcome of EMDR treatment of two patients' cases, a 13-year-old female and a 16-year-old male, who were diagnosed as FND with PNES, according to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. In both cases, there was a significant decrease in Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale scores and no pseudo seizures were found, even at the sixth-month follow-up visits. These case studies suggest that EMDR can be an effective method in the long-term treatment of FND with PNES and a useful alternative to other treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur O Demirci
- Department of Psychology, 270726Istanbul Gelisim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Eser Sagaltici
- Department of Psychiatry, 162307Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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5
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Liu D, Yang Y, Chen D, Wang Z, Guo D, Bao L, Dong J, Wang X, Qu X. Brain metabolic differences between temporal lobe epileptic seizures and organic non-epileptic seizures in postictal phase: a retrospective study with magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:3781-3791. [PMID: 34341749 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-1147] [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: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is employed to investigate the brain metabolites differences between patients with temporal lobe epileptic seizures (TLES) and organic non-epileptic seizures (ONES) that appear to be epileptic seizures. Twenty-three patients with TLES and nine patients with ONES in postictal phase underwent MRS examinations on a clinical 1.5T system, with 15 healthy controls in comparison. Statistical analyses on the ratios of brain metabolites were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test with age as a covariate. The results showed that N-acetyl-aspartate/Creatine (NAA/Cr) ratio of patients with TLES was statistically different from that of patients with ONES in postictal phase, i.e., TLES 1.422±0.037, ONES 1.640±0.061, P=0.012 in left temporal pole, while TLES 1.470±0.052, ONES 1.687±0.084, P=0.023 in the right temporal pole. Besides, compared with healthy controls, patients with TLES in postictal phase present significant differences in ratios of NAA/Cr, N-acetyl-aspartate/Choline (NAA/Cho) and NAA/(Cho + Cr). Experimental results demonstrate that NAA/Cr can be used to discriminate TLES from ONES, which has not been found in the references to the best of our knowledge. Although a prospective controlled validation is needed in the future, this retrospective study reveals that MRS may provide useful metabolites information to facilitate the epilepsy diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongbao Liu
- Department of Electronic Science, Biomedical Intelligent Cloud R&D Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Plasma and Magnetic Resonance, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yonggui Yang
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Dicheng Chen
- Department of Electronic Science, Biomedical Intelligent Cloud R&D Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Plasma and Magnetic Resonance, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zi Wang
- Department of Electronic Science, Biomedical Intelligent Cloud R&D Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Plasma and Magnetic Resonance, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Di Guo
- School of Computer and Information Engineering, Xiamen University of Technology, Xiamen, China
| | - Lijun Bao
- Department of Electronic Science, Biomedical Intelligent Cloud R&D Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Plasma and Magnetic Resonance, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jiyang Dong
- Department of Electronic Science, Biomedical Intelligent Cloud R&D Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Plasma and Magnetic Resonance, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Electronic Science, Biomedical Intelligent Cloud R&D Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Plasma and Magnetic Resonance, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaobo Qu
- Department of Electronic Science, Biomedical Intelligent Cloud R&D Center, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Plasma and Magnetic Resonance, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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6
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Goldstein LH, Robinson EJ, Pilecka I, Perdue I, Mosweu I, Read J, Jordan H, Wilkinson M, Rawlings G, Feehan SJ, Callaghan H, Day E, Purnell J, Baldellou Lopez M, Brockington A, Burness C, Poole NA, Eastwood C, Moore M, Mellers JD, Stone J, Carson A, Medford N, Reuber M, McCrone P, Murray J, Richardson MP, Landau S, Chalder T. Cognitive-behavioural therapy compared with standardised medical care for adults with dissociative non-epileptic seizures: the CODES RCT. Health Technol Assess 2021; 25:1-144. [PMID: 34196269 DOI: 10.3310/hta25430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dissociative (non-epileptic) seizures are potentially treatable by psychotherapeutic interventions; however, the evidence for this is limited. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy for adults with dissociative seizures. DESIGN This was a pragmatic, multicentre, parallel-arm, mixed-methods randomised controlled trial. SETTING This took place in 27 UK-based neurology/epilepsy services, 17 liaison psychiatry/neuropsychiatry services and 18 cognitive-behavioural therapy services. PARTICIPANTS Adults with dissociative seizures in the previous 8 weeks and no epileptic seizures in the previous year and meeting other eligibility criteria were recruited to a screening phase from neurology/epilepsy services between October 2014 and February 2017. After psychiatric assessment around 3 months later, eligible and interested participants were randomised between January 2015 and May 2017. INTERVENTIONS Standardised medical care consisted of input from neurologists and psychiatrists who were given guidance regarding diagnosis delivery and management; they provided patients with information booklets. The intervention consisted of 12 dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy 1-hour sessions (plus one booster session) that were delivered by trained therapists, in addition to standardised medical care. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was monthly seizure frequency at 12 months post randomisation. The secondary outcomes were aspects of seizure occurrence, quality of life, mood, anxiety, distress, symptoms, psychosocial functioning, clinical global change, satisfaction with treatment, quality-adjusted life-years, costs and cost-effectiveness. RESULTS In total, 698 patients were screened and 368 were randomised (standardised medical care alone, n = 182; and cognitive-behavioural therapy plus standardised medical care, n = 186). Primary outcome data were obtained for 85% of participants. An intention-to-treat analysis with multivariate imputation by chained equations revealed no significant between-group difference in dissociative seizure frequency at 12 months [standardised medical care: median of seven dissociative seizures (interquartile range 1-35 dissociative seizures); cognitive-behavioural therapy and standardised medical care: median of four dissociative seizures (interquartile range 0-20 dissociative seizures); incidence rate ratio 0.78, 95% confidence interval 0.56 to 1.09; p = 0.144]. Of the 16 secondary outcomes analysed, nine were significantly better in the arm receiving cognitive-behavioural therapy at a p-value < 0.05, including the following at a p-value ≤ 0.001: the longest dissociative seizure-free period in months 7-12 inclusive post randomisation (incidence rate ratio 1.64, 95% confidence interval 1.22 to 2.20; p = 0.001); better psychosocial functioning (Work and Social Adjustment Scale, standardised treatment effect -0.39, 95% confidence interval -0.61 to -0.18; p < 0.001); greater self-rated and clinician-rated clinical improvement (self-rated: standardised treatment effect 0.39, 95% confidence interval 0.16 to 0.62; p = 0.001; clinician rated: standardised treatment effect 0.37, 95% confidence interval 0.17 to 0.57; p < 0.001); and satisfaction with treatment (standardised treatment effect 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.27 to 0.73; p < 0.001). Rates of adverse events were similar across arms. Cognitive-behavioural therapy plus standardised medical care produced 0.0152 more quality-adjusted life-years (95% confidence interval -0.0106 to 0.0392 quality-adjusted life-years) than standardised medical care alone. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (cost per quality-adjusted life-year) for cognitive-behavioural therapy plus standardised medical care versus standardised medical care alone based on the EuroQol-5 Dimensions, five-level version, and imputed data was £120,658. In sensitivity analyses, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios ranged between £85,724 and £206,067. Qualitative and quantitative process evaluations highlighted useful study components, the importance of clinical experience in treating patients with dissociative seizures and potential benefits of our multidisciplinary care pathway. LIMITATIONS Unlike outcome assessors, participants and clinicians were not blinded to the interventions. CONCLUSIONS There was no significant additional benefit of dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy in reducing dissociative seizure frequency, and cost-effectiveness over standardised medical care was low. However, this large, adequately powered, multicentre randomised controlled trial highlights benefits of adjunctive dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy for several clinical outcomes, with no evidence of greater harm from dissociative seizure-specific cognitive-behavioural therapy. FUTURE WORK Examination of moderators and mediators of outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN05681227 and ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02325544. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 43. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Emily J Robinson
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Izabela Pilecka
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Iain Perdue
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Iris Mosweu
- King's Health Economics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Julie Read
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Harriet Jordan
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew Wilkinson
- Canterbury Christ Church University, Salamons Institute for Applied Psychology, Tunbridge Wells, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gregg Rawlings
- School of Clinical Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sarah J Feehan
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah Callaghan
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elana Day
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - James Purnell
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maria Baldellou Lopez
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alice Brockington
- Department of Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Norman A Poole
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, St George's Hospital, South West London and St George's NHS Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Carole Eastwood
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Michele Moore
- Centre for Social Justice and Global Responsibility, School of Law and Social Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | | | - Jon Stone
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alan Carson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nick Medford
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul McCrone
- King's Health Economics, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Joanna Murray
- Department of Health Services & Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry,Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mark P Richardson
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sabine Landau
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Trudie Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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7
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Abstract
Medically unexplained symptoms or persistent physical symptoms are common, real and are associated with significant distress, loss of functioning and high healthcare costs. History, examination and appropriate investigations are essential to make a diagnosis. Once the diagnosis has been made, exploring the impact of the symptoms helps us to tailor our advice to patients. This paper sets out a practical approach to taking a history, assessment and stepwise management principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mujtaba Husain
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM), London, UK
| | - Trudie Chalder
- King's College London, London, UK and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM), London, UK
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8
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Widyadharma IPE, Soejitno A, Samatra DPGP, Sinardja AMG. Clinical differentiation of psychogenic non-epileptic seizure: a practical diagnostic approach. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-021-00272-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizure (PNES) has long been the counterpart of epileptic seizure (ES). Despite ample of evidence differentiating the two, PNES mistakenly diagnosed as ES was still common, resulting in unnecessary exposure to long-term antiepileptic medications and reduced patient’s and caregiver’s quality of life, not to mention the burgeoning financial costs.
Objectives
In this review, we aimed to elucidate various differences between PNES and epileptic seizure with respect to baseline characteristics, seizure semiology, EEG pattern, and other key hallmark features.
Methods
An unstructured search was carried out in PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE using keywords pertinent to PNES and ES differentiation. Relevant information was subsequently summarized herein.
Results
PNES differs significantly with ES in terms of baseline characteristics, prodromal symptoms, seizure semiology, presence of pseudosleep, and other hallmark features (for instance provoking seizure with suggestion). The combined approach, if applied appropriately, can yield high diagnostic yield.
Conclusions
PNES can be clearly differentiated from ES via careful adherence to a set of valid clinical cues. The summarized clinical hallmarks is highly useful to prevent unnecessary ES diagnosis and treatment with AEDs.
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9
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Vanek J, Prasko J, Ociskova M, Genzor S, Holubova M, Hodny F, Nesnidal V, Slepecky M, Sova M, Minarikova K. Sleep Disturbances in Patients with Nonepileptic Seizures. Nat Sci Sleep 2021; 13:209-218. [PMID: 33623462 PMCID: PMC7896787 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s289190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Up to 20% of patients treated for epileptic seizures experience psychogenic nonepileptic paroxysms (PNES). These patients present a significant burden for the health care systems because of poor treatment outcomes. The presented review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge on sleep disturbances in patients with nonepileptic seizures. METHODS Articles were acquired via PubMed and Web of Science, and papers between January 1990 and March 2020 were extracted. Inclusion criteria were (1) published in a peer-reviewed journal: (2) studies in humans only; or (3) reviews on a related topic; (4) English language. The exclusion criteria were: (1) abstracts from conferences; (2) commentaries; (3) subjects younger than 18 years. From primary assessment, 122 articles were extracted; after obtaining full texts and secondary articles from reference lists, 45 papers were used in this review. RESULTS Limited data are available regarding sleep disorders in PNES patients, over the last 30 years only nine original research papers addressed sleep problems in patients with PNES with only six studies assessing objectively measured changes in sleep. Current literature supports the subjective perception of the sleep disturbances with mixed results in objective pathophysiological findings. Conflicting results regarding the REM phase can be found, and studies reported both shortening and prolonging of the REM phase with methodological limitations. Poor sleep quality and shortened duration have been consistently described in most of the studies. CONCLUSION Further research on a broader spectrum of patients with PNES is needed, primarily focusing on objective neurophysiological findings. Quality of life in patients suffering from PNES can be increased by good sleep habits and treatment of comorbid sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Vanek
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital, University Palacky Olomouc, Olomouc, 77520, The Czech Republic
| | - Jan Prasko
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital, University Palacky Olomouc, Olomouc, 77520, The Czech Republic.,Institute for Postgraduate Education in Health Care, Prague, The Czech Republic.,Department of Psychology Sciences, Faculty of Social Science and Health Care, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, The Slovak Republic
| | - Marie Ociskova
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital, University Palacky Olomouc, Olomouc, 77520, The Czech Republic
| | - Samuel Genzor
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Olomouc and Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University Olomouc, Olomouc, The Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Holubova
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Liberec, Liberec, The Czech Republic
| | - Frantisek Hodny
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital, University Palacky Olomouc, Olomouc, 77520, The Czech Republic
| | - Vlastmil Nesnidal
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital, University Palacky Olomouc, Olomouc, 77520, The Czech Republic
| | - Milos Slepecky
- Department of Psychology Sciences, Faculty of Social Science and Health Care, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, The Slovak Republic
| | - Milan Sova
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Olomouc and Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University Olomouc, Olomouc, The Czech Republic
| | - Kamila Minarikova
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital, University Palacky Olomouc, Olomouc, 77520, The Czech Republic
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Goleva SB, Lake AM, Torstenson ES, Haas KF, Davis LK. Epidemiology of Functional Seizures Among Adults Treated at a University Hospital. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e2027920. [PMID: 33372972 PMCID: PMC7772716 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.27920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance Functional seizures (formerly psychogenic nonepileptic seizures), paroxysmal episodes that are often similar to epileptic seizures in their clinical presentation and display no aberrant brain electrical patterns, are understudied. Patients experience a long diagnostic delay, few treatment modalities, a high rate of comorbidities, and significant stigma due to the lack of knowledge about functional seizures. Objective To characterize the clinical epidemiology of a population of patients with functional seizures observed at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC). Design, Setting, and Participants This case-control study included patients with functional seizures identified in the VUMC electronic health record (VUMC-EHR) system from October 1989 to October 2018. Patients with epilepsy were excluded from the study and all remaining patients in the VUMC medical center system were used as controls. In total, the study included 1431 patients diagnosed with functional seizures, 2251 with epilepsy and functional seizures, 4715 with epilepsy without functional seizures, and 502 200 control patients who received treatment at VUMC for a minimum of a 3 years. Data were analyzed from November 2018 to March 2020. Exposure Diagnosis of functional seizures, as identified from the VUMC-EHR system by an automated phenotyping algorithm that incorporated International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes, International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes, Current Procedural Terminology codes, and natural language processing. Main Outcomes and Measures Associations of functional seizures with comorbidities and risk factors, measured in odds ratios (ORs). Results Of 2 346 808 total patients in the VUMC-EHR aged 18 years or older, 3341 patients with functional seizures were identified (period prevalence, 0.14%), 1062 (74.2%) of whom were women and for which the median (interquartile range) age was 49.3 (39.4-59.9) years. This assessment replicated previously reported associations with psychiatric disorders including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.21-1.24; P < 3.02 × 10-5), anxiety (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.13-1.15; P < 3.02 × 10-5), and depression (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.13-1.15; P < 3.02 × 10-5), and identified novel associations with cerebrovascular disease (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.06-1.09; P < 3.02 × 10-5). An association was found between functional seizures and the known risk factor sexual assault trauma (OR, 10.26; 95% CI, 10.09-10.44; P < 3.02 × 10-5), and sexual assault trauma was found to mediate nearly a quarter of the association between female sex and functional seizures in the VUMC-EHR. Conclusions and Relevance This case-control study found evidence to support previously reported associations, discovered new associations between functional seizures and PTSD, anxiety, and depression. An association between cerebrovascular disease and functional seizures was also found. Results suggested that sexual trauma may be a mediating factor in the association between female sex and functional seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavina B. Goleva
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Allison M. Lake
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Eric S. Torstenson
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kevin F. Haas
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Lea K. Davis
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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11
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Balachandran N, Goodman AM, Allendorfer JB, Martin AN, Tocco K, Vogel V, LaFrance WC, Szaflarski JP. Relationship between neural responses to stress and mental health symptoms in psychogenic nonepileptic seizures after traumatic brain injury. Epilepsia 2020; 62:107-119. [PMID: 33238045 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To utilize traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a model for investigating functioning during acute stress experiences in psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) and to identify neural mechanisms underlying the link between changes in processing of stressful experiences and mental health symptoms in PNES. METHODS We recruited 94 participants: 50 with TBI only (TBI-only) and 44 with TBI and PNES (TBI + PNES). Participants completed mood (Beck Depression Inventory-II), anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom (PTSD Checklist-Specific Event) assessments before undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging during an acute psychosocial stress task. Linear mixed-effects analyses identified clusters of significant interactions between group and neural responses to stressful math performance and stressful auditory feedback conditions within limbic brain regions (volume-corrected α = .05). Spearman rank correlation tests compared mean cluster signals to symptom assessments (false discovery rate-corrected α = .05). RESULTS Demographic and TBI-related measures were similar between groups; TBI + PNES demonstrated worse clinical symptom severity compared to TBI-only. Stressful math performance induced relatively greater reactivity within dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (PFC) and right hippocampal regions and relatively reduced reactivity within left hippocampal and dorsolateral PFC regions for TBI + PNES compared to TBI-only. Stressful auditory feedback induced relatively reduced reactivity within ventral PFC, cingulate, hippocampal, and amygdala regions for TBI + PNES compared to TBI-only. Changes in responses to stressful math within hippocampal and dorsal PFC regions were correlated with increased mood, anxiety, and PTSD symptom severity. SIGNIFICANCE Corticolimbic functions underlying processing of stressful experiences differ between patients with TBI + PNES and those with TBI-only. Relationships between these neural responses and symptom assessments suggest potential pathophysiologic mechanisms in PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Balachandran
- Department of Neurology, UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Departments of Neurobiology and Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Adam M Goodman
- Department of Neurology, UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jane B Allendorfer
- Department of Neurology, UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Amber N Martin
- Department of Neurology, UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Krista Tocco
- Providence Veterans Administration Medical Center, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Valerie Vogel
- Providence Veterans Administration Medical Center, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- Providence Veterans Administration Medical Center, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- Department of Neurology, UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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12
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Cope SR, Smith JG, Edwards MJ, Holt K, Agrawal N. Enhancing the communication of functional neurological disorder diagnosis: a multidisciplinary education session. Eur J Neurol 2020; 28:40-47. [PMID: 32918317 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a common diagnosis within neurology. Effective communication of the diagnosis is known to be an important part of treatment and can result in reduction or cessation of symptoms, as well as decreased healthcare utilisation. A single group education session, facilitated by professionals commonly involved in the care of patients with FND, was developed to further enhance patients' and relatives' understanding and acceptance of diagnosis. METHODS Patients and relatives attending a single education session were asked to complete self-report ratings of understanding of diagnosis, acceptance of diagnosis, belief in treatability and hopefulness regarding recovery, at the beginning and end of the session. Satisfaction data were also collected. RESULTS Data were obtained from 193 patients and 153 relatives. Patients had experienced a median duration of symptoms of 4 years, and more than 80% of patients reported more than one functional neurological symptom. There were significant increases in terms of understanding, acceptance, belief in treatability and hopefulness for patients and relatives. Effect sizes ranged from large for improved understanding of FND to small-to-medium for increased agreement with FND diagnosis. High levels of satisfaction were also reported. CONCLUSIONS A multidisciplinary, single group education session is an effective and acceptable method of increasing understanding and acceptance of an FND diagnosis, even for patients with a long duration of symptoms and high symptom burden. It could help improve readiness for further treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Cope
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, South West London and St. George's Mental Health National Health Service Trust, London, UK
| | - J G Smith
- Population Health Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - M J Edwards
- Department of Neurology, St. George's University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Neurosciences Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - K Holt
- Department of Neurology, St. George's University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - N Agrawal
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, South West London and St. George's Mental Health National Health Service Trust, London, UK.,Department of Neurology, St. George's University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
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13
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Nicholson C, Edwards MJ, Carson AJ, Gardiner P, Golder D, Hayward K, Humblestone S, Jinadu H, Lumsden C, MacLean J, Main L, Macgregor L, Nielsen G, Oakley L, Price J, Ranford J, Ranu J, Sum E, Stone J. Occupational therapy consensus recommendations for functional neurological disorder. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2020; 91:1037-1045. [PMID: 32732388 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2019-322281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with functional neurological disorder (FND) are commonly seen by occupational therapists; however, there are limited descriptions in the literature about the type of interventions that are likely to be helpful. This document aims to address this issue by providing consensus recommendations for occupational therapy assessment and intervention. METHODS The recommendations were developed in four stages. Stage 1: an invitation was sent to occupational therapists with expertise in FND in different countries to complete two surveys exploring their opinions regarding best practice for assessment and interventions for FND. Stage 2: a face-to-face meeting of multidisciplinary clinical experts in FND discussed and debated the data from stage 1, aiming to achieve consensus on each issue. Stage 3: recommendations based on the meeting were drafted. Stage 4: successive drafts of recommendations were circulated among the multidisciplinary group until consensus was achieved. RESULTS We recommend that occupational therapy treatment for FND is based on a biopsychosocial aetiological framework. Education, rehabilitation within functional activity and the use of taught self-management strategies are central to occupational therapy intervention for FND. Several aspects of occupational therapy for FND are distinct from therapy for other neurological conditions. Examples to illustrate the recommendations are included within this document. CONCLUSIONS Occupational therapists have an integral role in the multidisciplinary management of people with FND. This document forms a starting point for research aiming to develop evidence-based occupational therapy interventions for people with FND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Nicholson
- Department of Therapy Services, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Mark J Edwards
- Neurosciences Research Centre, University of London St George's Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, London, UK
| | - Alan J Carson
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Paula Gardiner
- Centre for Clinical Brain Services, University of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Kate Hayward
- Department of Therapy Services, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Susan Humblestone
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Jinadu
- The Lishman Unit, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carrie Lumsden
- Community Rehabilitation and Brain Injury Service, West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership, Livingston, West Lothian, United Kingdom
| | - Julie MacLean
- Occupational Therapy Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Lynne Main
- Neurological rehabilitation out-patient services, Astley Ainslie Hospital, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Lindsey Macgregor
- Falkirk Community Mental Health Service for Adults, NHS Forth Valley, Falkirk, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Glenn Nielsen
- Neurosciences Research Centre, University of London St George's Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, London, UK
| | - Louise Oakley
- National Centre for Mental Health, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jason Price
- Department of Neuropsychology, James Cook University Hospital, South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Ranford
- Occupational Therapy Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Jasbir Ranu
- Department of Therapy Services, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | - Ed Sum
- Integrated Community Neurology Team, East Coast Community Healthcare CIC, Lowestoft, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Stone
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
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14
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Toffa DH, Poirier L, Nguyen DK. The first-line management of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in adults in the emergency: a practical approach. ACTA EPILEPTOLOGICA 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s42494-020-00016-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractDistinguishing non-epileptic events, especially psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), from epileptic seizures (ES) constitutes a diagnostic challenge. Misdiagnoses are frequent, especially when video-EEG recording, the gold-standard for PNES confirmation, cannot be completed. The issue is further complicated in cases of combined PNES with ES. In emergency units, a misdiagnosis can lead to extreme antiepileptic drug escalade, unnecessary resuscitation measures (intubation, catheterization, etc.), as well as needless biologic and imaging investigations. Outside of the acute window, an incorrect diagnosis can lead to prolonged hospitalization or increase of unhelpful antiepileptic drug therapy. Early recognition is thus desirable to initiate adequate treatment and improve prognosis. Considering experience-based strategies and a thorough review of the literature, we aimed to present the main clinical clues for physicians facing PNES in non-specialized units, before management is transferred to epileptologists and neuropsychiatrists. In such conditions, patient recall or witness-report provide the first orientation for the diagnosis, recognizing that collected information may be inaccurate. Thorough analysis of an event (live or based on home-video) may lead to a clinical diagnosis of PNES with a high confidence level. Indeed, a fluctuating course, crying with gestures of frustration, pelvic thrusting, eye closure during the episode, and the absence of postictal confusion and/or amnesia are highly suggestive of PNES. Moreover, induction and/or inhibition tests of PNES have a good diagnostic value when positive. Prolactinemia may also be a useful biomarker to distinguish PNES from epileptic seizures, especially following bilateral tonic-clonic seizures. Finally, regardless the level of certainty in the diagnosis of the PNES, it is important to subsequently refer the patient for epileptological and neuropsychiatric follow-up.
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15
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Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: Comparing what South African healthcare providers communicate to patients at the point of diagnosis against international guidelines. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 101:106399. [PMID: 31698264 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The process of communicating a diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) has been widely studied internationally and found to be an important factor in the reduction of symptoms as well as promoting the uptake of treatment. To date, no research has focused on diagnosis communication in the South African context. This study used applied thematic analysis to explore the content addressed by a sample of 11 South African healthcare providers (HCPs) when presenting a diagnosis of PNES to a patient. The purpose was to investigate the areas of alignment between the international guidelines and what is done in practice and to identify other elements communicated by South African HCPs that were not addressed in the guidelines. The key communication elements described in five international guidelines were grouped into nine main themes, and coding frequencies were used to identify areas of alignment. In general, the practices of the participants aligned closely to the international guidelines. There was close alignment between the guidelines and the practices of HCPs in respect of six themes, namely: that the diagnosis was not epilepsy; how the diagnosis was made; that PNES was a real, debilitating condition; an explanation of possible causes and maintaining factors; that antiepileptic drugs are not effective in treating PNES; and a description of appropriate treatment. Participants suggested four additional subthemes that may be included when presenting a diagnosis: what to do in the event of future seizures; that further investigations are not helpful; enquiry into the link between stressors and seizures; and a discussion about comorbid conditions. Participants noted the value of utilizing a guideline as a means to ensure that all HCPs involved with a patient communicate a consistent message. They emphasized that diagnosis presentation must be relevant to the South African population and discussed the need to tailor explanations for the patient's home language and level of education. Cross-cultural barriers and different cultural health beliefs may require a specially tailored communication approach grounded in a clear cultural understanding.
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16
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Fouché M, Hartwig L, Pretorius C. Management of uncertainty in the diagnosis communication of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures in a South African context. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 98:45-52. [PMID: 31299532 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The process of communicating a diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is an integral part of the treatment process. Many international studies have therefore focused on the PNES diagnosis communication process, but to date, none with a specific focus on the South African context. This current study considered the factors that influence the patient's experience of uncertainty and the strategies employed to manage that uncertainty within the provider-patient communication. This was considered from the healthcare provider's point of view, within the specific context of diagnosis communication. We conducted 13 semi-structured interviews with providers, eliciting their perceptions related to the communication of a PNES diagnosis to patients. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and themes were grouped according to the main tenets of the interpersonal health communication theory of uncertainty management, which included, the experience, appraisal, and management of uncertainty. The results revealed medical, personal, and social forms of uncertainty. The social sources of uncertainty, which include challenges related to the South African healthcare system, cultural, and language variability within the South African context, as well as possible stigmatization, seemed to have the biggest influence not only on the other areas of uncertainty, but was also indicated as a barrier to effective uncertainty management by providers. Providers in this study identified the importance of building the provider-patient relationship and ensuring patient understanding, as the main strategies used to reduce uncertainty. There was some evidence to suggest varied emotional appraisals of uncertainty by patients, but because of the subjective nature of this information, further research would be needed to confirm these findings. These findings suggest that as providers, one cannot apply a one-size-fits-all approach when aiding in uncertainty management. Furthermore, it is pertinent to remain cognizant of the social realities of the South African context and its impact on the patient's uncertainty experience. More research is needed to understand patients' perceptions of uncertainty management within the context of PNES diagnosis communication, and how they align with the perceptions of the providers provided here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Fouché
- Department of Psychology, University of Stellenbosch, RW Wilcocks Building, 2nd Floor, Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
| | - Louise Hartwig
- Department of Psychology, University of Stellenbosch, RW Wilcocks Building, 2nd Floor, Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
| | - Chrisma Pretorius
- Department of Psychology, University of Stellenbosch, RW Wilcocks Building, 2nd Floor, Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa.
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17
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Deleuran M, Nørgaard K, Andersen NB, Sabers A. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures treated with psychotherapy: Long-term outcome on seizures and healthcare utilization. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 98:195-200. [PMID: 31377661 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are known to be associated with significant costs of healthcare services. Here, we report the impact of psychotherapy on behavior surrounding healthcare utilization and the potential economic benefits associated with long-term seizure control. METHODS This retrospective study describes patients seen between 2010 and 2016 at the epilepsy clinic at Glostrup University Hospital in Denmark and offered a psychotherapeutic treatment program for PNES. Forty-two patients were interviewed about seizure outcome 12-24 months after psychotherapy, and the annual changes in healthcare utilization and associated costs of services provided in a period of 24 months before and up to 24 months after treatment were compared. RESULTS At 12-month follow-up, 83% of the patients had achieved above 50% reduction in seizures. The 24-month pretreatment costs compared with the 24-month posttreatment costs directly associated with seizures dropped by 95.8%, and total healthcare costs were reduced by 63%. Estimation of annual savings from the program comes to 1060 € per patient. An association was found between seizure rate and number of healthcare contacts. CONCLUSION This study adds to the evidence that psychotherapy is a cost-effective way of treating PNES. The economic benefits from this form of intervention appear not only to diminish costs directly associated with PNES, but also healthcare utilization in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mads Deleuran
- The Epilepsy Clinic, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Denmark
| | | | | | - Anne Sabers
- The Epilepsy Clinic, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Denmark.
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18
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Cullingham T, Kirkby A, Sellwood W, Eccles FJR. Avoidance in nonepileptic attack disorder: A systematic review and meta-analyses. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 95:100-111. [PMID: 31030077 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.03.004] [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: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Avoidance is the active process of trying to escape from or not experience situations, places, thoughts, or feelings. This can be done through behavioral or cognitive strategies, or more broadly, a combination of both, utilized in an attempt to disengage from private experiences referred to as experiential avoidance (EA). Avoidance is considered important in the development and maintenance of nonepileptic attack disorder (NEAD). This review aimed to understand avoidance in NEAD and evaluate its role as a contributory factor. METHODS Fourteen articles were identified by searching Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), MEDLINE Complete, PsycINFO, and EMBASE and were combined in a narrative synthesis. Six of these articles were included in a meta-analysis comparing levels of EA for individuals with NEAD and healthy controls (HC), and four were included in a meta-analysis comparing EA in NEAD to epilepsy comparisons (EC). CONCLUSIONS Experiential avoidance appears to be a strategy that is used by a high proportion of the population with NEAD. The group with NEAD utilized significantly more avoidance compared with both the HC and EC. However, further research is needed to understand the extent and types of avoidance that are relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasha Cullingham
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, Bailrigg, Lancaster University, LA1 4YW, UK.
| | - Antonia Kirkby
- Department of Clinical Neuropsychology, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD, UK
| | - William Sellwood
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, Bailrigg, Lancaster University, LA1 4YW, UK
| | - Fiona J R Eccles
- Division of Health Research, University of Lancaster, Bailrigg, Lancaster University, LA1 4YW, UK
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19
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Abstract
Functional non-epileptic attacks (FNEA) are seizure-like events occurring in the absence of epilepsy. Having had many different names over the years including dissociative convulsions and pseudo-seizures, they now fall in the borderland between neurology and psychiatry, often not accepted by either specialty. However, there is evidence that there is a high rate of psychiatric comorbidity in these patients and therefore it is likely that psychiatrists will come across patients with FNEA and they should know the broad principles of assessment and management. We have provided a clinically based overview of the evidence regarding epidemiology, risk factors, clinical features, differentiation from epilepsy, prognosis, assessment and treatment. By the end of this article, readers should be able to understand the difference between epileptic seizures and FNEA, know how to manage acute FNEA, and understand the principles of neuropsychiatric assessment and management of these patients, based on knowledge of the evidence base.
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20
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review addresses the scope, evaluation, treatments, and outcomes of patients with nonepileptic episodic events with a focus on psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Differentiation of the types of events, including a review of terminology, is included, as well as a brief review of special patient populations with these disorders. RECENT FINDINGS There are continued efforts to develop tools to improve the diagnosis of these disorders. A thorough evaluation with trained personnel and physicians knowledgeable in the assessment and treatment of these disorders is important. Although inpatient video-EEG monitoring in an epilepsy monitoring unit remains the gold standard for diagnosis, the assessment of clinical and historical factors is critical and can be useful in expediting the process and improving diagnostic certainty. International efforts have recently assisted in providing guidelines for the evaluation of the psychogenic disorders and may help target educational and other resources to underserved areas. SUMMARY The prompt and accurate diagnosis of nonepileptic episodic events and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures is possible with current technology, and the appropriate and targeted use of evidence-based treatments may help improve patient quality of life and avoid unnecessary disability in patients with these disorders.
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Rockliffe-Fidler C, Willis M. Explaining dissociative seizures: a neuropsychological perspective. Pract Neurol 2019; 19:259-263. [PMID: 30755460 DOI: 10.1136/practneurol-2018-002100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Dissociative seizures are common in routine neurological practice and cause considerable morbidity. However, explaining such episodes to patients is rarely straightforward. Taking a neuropsychological perspective, we present a strategy for communicating this diagnosis to both patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Rockliffe-Fidler
- Department of Clinical Psychology, North Monmouthshire CMHT, Maindiff Court Hospital, Abergavenny, UK
| | - Mark Willis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES): A Case Report and Literature Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2019; 9:bs9020015. [PMID: 30699899 PMCID: PMC6406384 DOI: 10.3390/bs9020015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are classified as a somatoform conversion disorder. We present a case of a 24-year-old male with a past psychiatric history of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety disorder, admitted to our inpatient psychiatric unit. The patient experienced multiple episodes of seizures during hospitalization. Work up was unremarkable, and PNES were suspected and later confirmed with video-electroencephalography (video-EEG). He underwent supervised withdrawal of antiepileptic medications with the initiation of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which reduced the frequency of seizures. Diagnosis of PNES can present as a challenge and failure to diagnose its psychological nature can lead to a delay in the psychological intervention. CBT leads to a decrease in seizure frequency, and improvement in psychiatric symptoms, psychosocial functioning, and quality of life. It is important to consider PNES in the differential diagnosis of seizures presented by psychiatric patients, as CBT is necessary for better patient outcomes.
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Sheth SA, Chandra NC, Mehta RY. Temporal Lobe Seizures Presenting as Abrupt Clinging Behavior in a Child. Indian J Psychol Med 2017; 39:527-530. [PMID: 28852255 PMCID: PMC5560009 DOI: 10.4103/0253-7176.211761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
True and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) go hand in hand. One colors the picture of other. Although it is thought that children carry lower risk for PNES than adults, this may represent the under-diagnosis of this condition in childhood due to few studies on this specific topic. Again, true seizure can be misdiagnosed by dramatic and varied manifestations appearing as psychological phenomena. We report a case of a 9-year-old boy presenting with sudden onset, short lasting, off and on different "melodramatic" episodic behavioral problems with La-Belle' indifference without loss of consciousness, appearing to be of psychogenic origin but finally ended with a diagnosis of temporal lobe epilepsy and responded dramatically with antiepileptics. The goal of this case report is to alert the reader to be cautious about rarer presentations of epilepsy and see each case holistically which may be misguided as PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabina A Sheth
- Department of Psychiatry, Government Medical College and New Civil Hospital, Surat, Gujarat, India
| | - Nilanjan C Chandra
- Department of Psychiatry, Government Medical College and New Civil Hospital, Surat, Gujarat, India
| | - Ritambhara Y Mehta
- Department of Psychiatry, Government Medical College and New Civil Hospital, Surat, Gujarat, India
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Dickson JM, Peacock M, Grünewald RA, Howlett S, Bissell P, Reuber M. Non-epileptic attack disorder: the importance of diagnosis and treatment. BMJ Case Rep 2017; 2017:bcr-2016-218278. [PMID: 28249881 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-218278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A 50-year-old woman was taken to hospital by emergency ambulance during her first seizure. She was admitted to hospital, treated with intravenous diazepam, diagnosed with epilepsy and started on antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy. This was ineffective so she was referred to a tertiary centre where she underwent video EEG and was diagnosed with non-epileptic attack disorder. Her experience of the diagnosis was positive; it allowed her to understand what was happening to her and to understand the link between her seizures, adverse childhood experiences and the death of her mother. She stopped taking AEDs and she was referred to a psychologist which led to a significant improvement in her functioning and quality of life. We present this case as a good example of the benefits of accurate diagnosis, clear explanation and access to specialist care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Mark Dickson
- Academic Unit of Primary Medical Care, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | | | - Stephanie Howlett
- Department of Neurology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul Bissell
- Section of Public Health, ScHARR, The University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, UK
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article details the evaluation process involved in the diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES). The psychological underpinnings, prognostic factors, and recent treatment advances of PNES are also reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS The diagnosis of PNES is determined based on concordance of the composite evidence available, including historical and physical examination findings, seizure symptoms and signs, and ictal/interictal EEG. No single clinical data point is definitively diagnostic of PNES. The diagnosis of PNES can be challenging at times, such as when seizure documentation on video-EEG cannot be readily obtained. Yet, delayed diagnosis of PNES portends poor outcome. A multicomponent approach to the diagnosis of PNES, with use of an aggregate of available evidence, may facilitate diagnosis and then care of patients with PNES. Emerging evidence supports the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral-based therapy in the treatment of these patients. SUMMARY The diagnosis of PNES can be made reliably, and evidence-based treatment now exists. Continued efforts remain necessary to enhance prompt recognition and interdisciplinary management for patients with PNES.
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Bajestan SN, LaFrance WC. Clinical Approaches to Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. FOCUS: JOURNAL OF LIFE LONG LEARNING IN PSYCHIATRY 2016; 14:422-431. [PMID: 31975822 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20160020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are a subtype of conversion disorder (also called functional neurological symptom disorder in DSM-5). Patients with PNES are high utilizers of health care and can have disability levels similar to those of patients with epilepsy. PNES is a common, complex neuropsychiatric somatoform disorder at the interface of neurology and psychiatry disciplines and is largely overlooked and avoided by mental health providers. Despite advances in establishing accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatments, recent knowledge about PNES has not been well translated into clinical practice. Long diagnostic delays have been associated with poor prognosis. Recent advances in possible neurophysiological biomarkers include functional MRI studies that show abnormalities in emotional, cognitive, executive, and sensorimotor neurocircuits. Although the gold standard for diagnosis is video electroencephalograph, this test is underused by psychiatrists. The International League Against Epilepsy proposed a staged approach to PNES diagnosis using history, semiologic features, and EEG. Thorough psychiatric assessment can identify relevant biopsychosocial and predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors, as well as assess the comorbid psychiatric disorders, which can inform a treatment plan. Clear and thoughtful delivery of diagnosis is the first step in treatment. Regular follow-up with the patient's neurologist, in addition to treatment by mental health professionals familiar with somatic symptom disorders, is recommended. Psychotherapy is the mainstay of treatment, and randomized clinical trials using cognitive-behavioral therapies reveal significant reduction in seizures and other psychiatric symptoms. After centuries, mental health providers now have access to the tools to diagnose and effectively treat PNES and other conversion disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh N Bajestan
- Dr. Bajestan is with the Neuropsychiatry Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California. Dr. LaFrance is with the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Division of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence. Send correspondence to Dr. LaFrance (e-mail: )
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- Dr. Bajestan is with the Neuropsychiatry Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California. Dr. LaFrance is with the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Division of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence. Send correspondence to Dr. LaFrance (e-mail: )
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De Toffol B, Biberon J, Hingray C, El-Hage W. Crisi non epilettiche psicogene (CNEP). Neurologia 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(16)77533-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Goldstein LH, Mellers JDC. Psychologic treatment of functional neurologic disorders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2016; 139:571-583. [PMID: 27719872 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-801772-2.00046-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The management of patients with functional neurologic disorders poses many challenges. Psychologic treatments may well start at the point of delivery of the diagnosis, when careful explanations about the nature of the disorder have to be given to the patient and possibly also relatives/carers. Different conceptual models may assist in explaining the factors underlying the presentation, two of which (functional and dissociative) are briefly outlined here. The challenges for neurologists and psychiatrists of delivering a psychologic formulation as part of the diagnosis delivery are considered, along with the importance of clear communication between professionals involved in the patient's care. Existing literature on treatments incorporating psychologic components suggests that, despite limitations in the study designs and the potential bias in some outcome evaluations, there is evidence to support the use of psychologic interventions for at least some functional neurologic disorders, although larger and better-designed studies are required in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- L H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, UK
| | - J D C Mellers
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Maudsley Hospital, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, UK.
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Brough JL, Moghaddam NG, Gresswell DM, Dawson DL. The impact of receiving a diagnosis of Non-Epileptic Attack Disorder (NEAD): A systematic review. J Psychosom Res 2015; 79:420-7. [PMID: 26526318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2015.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinicians have reported observations of the immediate cessation of non-epileptic attacks after the diagnosis of NEAD is presented. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the impact of receiving a diagnosis of NEAD. SEARCH STRATEGY A literature search across the databases Medline, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and CINAHL, and additional hand searching, identified six original studies meeting criteria for the review. SELECTION CRITERIA Included studies were original peer-reviewed articles investigating the impact of receiving a diagnosis of NEAD on adult populations with at least one outcome measured pre- and post-diagnosis. ANALYSIS The studies were assessed for methodological quality, including biases. This assessment was developed to include criteria specific to research regarding NEAD and diagnosis. RESULTS Six identified studies, with a total of 153 NEAD participants, examined the impact of receiving a diagnosis on seizure frequency. Two of the six also examined the impact on health-related quality of life. The findings were inconsistent, with approximately half the participants experiencing seizure reduction or cessation post-diagnosis. Diagnosis appeared to have no significant impact on health-related quality of life. The overall evidence lacked quality, particularly in study design and statistical rigour. CONCLUSIONS Mixed results and a lack of high quality evidence were found. Concerns are considered regarding the appropriateness of seizure frequency as the primary outcome measure and the use of epilepsy control groups. Indications for future research include: measuring more meaningful outcomes, using larger samples and power calculations, and ensuring consistent and standard methods for communicating the diagnosis and recording outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna L Brough
- Department of Doctoral Clinical Psychology, University of Lincoln, Bridge House, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN7 6TS, UK.
| | - Nima G Moghaddam
- Department of Doctoral Clinical Psychology, University of Lincoln, Bridge House, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN7 6TS, UK
| | - David M Gresswell
- Department of Doctoral Clinical Psychology, University of Lincoln, Bridge House, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN7 6TS, UK
| | - David L Dawson
- Department of Doctoral Clinical Psychology, University of Lincoln, Bridge House, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN7 6TS, UK
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Mascia A, Quarato PP, D'Aniello A, Di Gennaro G. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures mimicking gelastic seizures: A description of two cases. EPILEPSY & BEHAVIOR CASE REPORTS 2015; 4:67-9. [PMID: 27195218 PMCID: PMC4543217 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebcr.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Revised: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are sudden, involuntary seizure-like attacks that, unlike epileptic seizures, are not related to electrographic ictal discharges and are psychological in nature. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures presenting symptoms mimic a wide array of nervous system dysfunctions, as they involve changes in behavior, motor activity, sensation, cognitive, and autonomic functions. Spontaneous paroxysms of laughing resembling gelastic seizure have only exceptionally been reported as main symptom of PNES. Here, we describe the cases of two patients with a prolonged history of laughter attacks mistaken for epilepsy and unresponsive to AED treatment. Brain MRI and interictal EEG were unremarkable. Video-EEG monitoring allowed us to document the spontaneous and suggestion-induced habitual episodes that were then diagnosed as PNES.
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Haykal MA, Smith B. A Therapeutic Approach to Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2015; 17:371. [PMID: 26249826 DOI: 10.1007/s11940-015-0371-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT The diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is usually made in the seizure monitoring unit (SMU; also commonly named the epilepsy monitoring unit) after PNES are recorded on video-EEG. The diagnosis should be discussed with the patient thoroughly. The discussion should focus on how the diagnosis was reached and that the diagnosis is real and treatable. When the diagnosis is communicated well, some patients may improve significantly without further interventions. Next, a psychiatric evaluation should be completed, ideally before discharge from the SMU. After discharge, the patient should undergo cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), the only treatment for PNES that is supported by high-quality evidence. Other therapies, including psychodynamic therapy and different types of group therapy can be considered in some patients, although high-level evidence to support their use is lacking. Some patients may benefit from selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), especially when psychiatric comorbidities are present. This should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ayman Haykal
- Spectrum Health, 25 Michigan St NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA,
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Goldstein LH, Mellers JDC, Landau S, Stone J, Carson A, Medford N, Reuber M, Richardson M, McCrone P, Murray J, Chalder T. COgnitive behavioural therapy vs standardised medical care for adults with Dissociative non-Epileptic Seizures (CODES): a multicentre randomised controlled trial protocol. BMC Neurol 2015; 15:98. [PMID: 26111700 PMCID: PMC4482314 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-015-0350-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The evidence base for the effectiveness of psychological interventions for patients with dissociative non-epileptic seizures (DS) is currently extremely limited, although data from two small pilot randomised controlled trials (RCTs), including from our group, suggest that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) may be effective in reducing DS occurrence and may improve aspects of psychological status and psychosocial functioning. METHODS/DESIGN The study is a multicentre, pragmatic parallel group RCT to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of specifically-tailored CBT plus standardised medical care (SMC) vs SMC alone in reducing DS frequency and improving psychological and health-related outcomes. In the initial screening phase, patients with DS will receive their diagnosis from a neurologist/epilepsy specialist. If patients are eligible and interested following the provision of study information and a booklet about DS, they will consent to provide demographic information and fortnightly data about their seizures, and agree to see a psychiatrist three months later. We aim to recruit ~500 patients to this screening stage. After a review three months later by a psychiatrist, those patients who have continued to have DS in the previous eight weeks and who meet further eligibility criteria will be told about the trial comparing CBT + SMC vs SMC alone. If they are interested in participating, they will be given a further booklet on DS and study information. A research worker will see them to obtain their informed consent to take part in the RCT. We aim to randomise 298 people (149 to each arm). In addition to a baseline assessment, data will be collected at 6 and 12 months post randomisation. Our primary outcome is monthly seizure frequency in the preceding month. Secondary outcomes include seizure severity, measures of seizure freedom and reduction, psychological distress and psychosocial functioning, quality of life, health service use, cost effectiveness and adverse events. We will include a nested qualitative study to evaluate participants' views of the intervention and factors that acted as facilitators and barriers to participation. DISCUSSION This study will be the first adequately powered evaluation of CBT for this patient group and offers the potential to provide an evidence base for treating this patient group. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN05681227 ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02325544.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura H Goldstein
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - John D C Mellers
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AZ, UK.
| | - Sabine Landau
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Biostatistics, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Jon Stone
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK.
| | - Alan Carson
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Morningside Terrace, Edinburgh EH10 5HF, and University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Nick Medford
- Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9RR, UK.
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK.
| | - Mark Richardson
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Paul McCrone
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Health Service and Population Research, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Joanna Murray
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Health Service and Population Research, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Trudie Chalder
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
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Zheleznova EV, Kalinin VV, Kondrakov RN. [About the comorbidity of affective and conversion disorders in epilepsy]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2015; 115:7-12. [PMID: 25909800 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro2015115127-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this literature review, special attention is drawn to the pathogenesis of conversion disorders in patients with epilepsy, in particular, with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Diagnostic issues and pharmacotherapy of affective and conversion disorders in patients with epilepsy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - V V Kalinin
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry, Moscow
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Raglio A, Attardo L, Gontero G, Rollino S, Groppo E, Granieri E. Effects of music and music therapy on mood in neurological patients. World J Psychiatry 2015; 5:68-78. [PMID: 25815256 PMCID: PMC4369551 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v5.i1.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Revised: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mood disorder and depressive syndromes represent a common comorbid condition in neurological disorders with a prevalence rate that ranges between 20% and 50% of patients with stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. Notwithstanding, these conditions are often under-diagnosed and under-treated in the clinical practice and negatively affect the functional recovery, the adherence to treatment, the quality of life, and even the mortality risk. In addition, a bidirectional association between depression and neurological disorders may be possible being that depressive syndromes may be considered as a risk factor for certain neurological diseases. Despite the large amount of evidence regarding the effects of music therapy (MT) and other musical interventions on different aspects of neurological disorders, no updated article reviewing outcomes such as mood, emotions, depression, activity of daily living and so on is actually available; for this reason, little is known about the effectiveness of music and MT on these important outcomes in neurological patients. The aim of this article is to provide a narrative review of the current literature on musical interventions and their effects on mood and depression in patients with neurological disorders. Searching on PubMed and PsycInfo databases, 25 studies corresponding to the inclusion criteria have been selected; 11 of them assess the effects of music or MT in Dementia, 9 explore the efficacy on patients with Stroke, and 5 regard other neurological diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/motor neuron disease, Chronic quadriplegia, Parkinson’s Disease, and Acquired Brain dysfunctions. Selected studies are based on relational and rehabilitative music therapy approaches or concern music listening interventions. Most of the studies support the efficacy of MT and other musical interventions on mood, depressive syndromes, and quality of life on neurological patients.
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Analyzing reliability of seizure diagnosis based on semiology. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 41:197-202. [PMID: 25461215 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.09.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Revised: 09/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the accuracy of seizure diagnosis by semiological analysis and to assess the factors that affect diagnostic reliability. A total of 150 video clips of seizures from 50 patients (each with three seizures of the same type) were observed by eight epileptologists, 12 neurologists, and 20 physicians (internists). The videos included 37 series of epileptic seizures, eight series of physiologic nonepileptic events (PNEEs), and five series of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNESs). After observing each video, the doctors chose the diagnosis of epileptic seizures or nonepileptic events for the patient; if the latter was chosen, they further chose the diagnosis of PNESs or PNEEs. The overall diagnostic accuracy rate for epileptic seizures and nonepileptic events increased from 0.614 to 0.660 after observations of all three seizures (p < 0.001). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of epileptic seizures were 0.770 and 0.808, respectively, for the epileptologists. These values were significantly higher than those for the neurologists (0.660 and 0.699) and physicians (0.588 and 0.658). A wide range of diagnostic accuracy was found across the various seizures types. An accuracy rate of 0.895 for generalized tonic-clonic seizures was the highest, followed by 0.800 for dialeptic seizures and then 0.760 for automotor seizures. The accuracy rates for myoclonic seizures (0.530), hypermotor seizures (0.481), gelastic/dacrystic seizures (0.438), and PNESs (0.430) were poor. The reliability of semiological diagnosis of seizures is greatly affected by the seizure type as well as the doctor's experience. Although the overall reliability is limited, it can be improved by observing more seizures.
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Agrawal N, Gaynor D, Lomax A, Mula M. Multimodular psychotherapy intervention for nonepileptic attack disorder: an individualized pragmatic approach. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 41:144-8. [PMID: 25461207 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 09/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Nonepileptic attack disorder (NEAD) is a highly distressing and costly condition commonly seen in specialist epilepsy clinics. Consistently effective treatments for NEAD remain elusive, and findings from research indicate that there is no one form of psychological therapy that will be effective in such a heterogeneous group of patients. In this paper, we propose a multimodular approach to psychological therapy in NEAD, which allows the clinician to tailor an individualized management program for the patient appropriate to his/her needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niruj Agrawal
- Epilepsy Group, Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St George's Hospital, London, UK; St George's, University of London, London, UK; South West London & St George's MH NHS Trust, London, UK; Department of Neuropsychiatry, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Danielle Gaynor
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Alice Lomax
- St George's, University of London, London, UK; Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK; Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Marco Mula
- Epilepsy Group, Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St George's Hospital, London, UK; St George's, University of London, London, UK
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Abstract
Epilepsy is commonly encountered in forensic pathology and is ultimately determined to be the cause of death in 1–2% of medicolegal death investigations. Epilepsy is a risk factor for death from external causes, including accidents and drowning. More commonly, deaths result from the underlying epilepsy pathology, including intracranial neoplasms, cerebrovascular disease, status epilepticus, and sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). SUDEP refers to the sudden death in an epilepsy patient that lacks an alternative anatomic or toxicological cause of death. At autopsy, intracranial pathology is present in the majority of epilepsy-related deaths and is more likely to be identified following brain fixation. Common findings include brain tumors, mesial temporal sclerosis, and malformations of cortical development. Death investigators should pay particular attention to clinical history to establish a clear history of epilepsy and to determine seizure type, frequency, underlying etiology, and prior medical and surgical treatments as well as other comorbid medical conditions. A complete autopsy with toxicology is necessary to identify other causes of death, particularly in cases of suspected SUDEP. While toxicology may be helpful in some cases, caution must be taken in interpreting postmortem antiepileptic drug concentrations as levels decrease postmortem.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Ross Reichard
- Chief Medical Examiner of the Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner's Office, Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine
| | - Rachael Vaubel
- Mayo Clinic -Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Rochester, MN
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van der Kruijs SJM, Jagannathan SR, Bodde NMG, Besseling RMH, Lazeron RHC, Vonck KEJ, Boon PAJM, Cluitmans PJM, Hofman PAM, Backes WH, Aldenkamp AP, Jansen JFA. Resting-state networks and dissociation in psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. J Psychiatr Res 2014; 54:126-33. [PMID: 24703187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2014.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2013] [Revised: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are epilepsy-like episodes which have an emotional rather than organic origin. Although PNES have often been related to the process of dissociation, the psychopathology is still poorly understood. To elucidate underlying mechanisms, the current study applied independent component analysis (ICA) on resting-state fMRI to investigate alterations within four relevant networks, associated with executive, fronto-parietal, sensorimotor, and default mode activation, and within a visual network to examine specificity of between-group differences. METHODS Twenty-one patients with PNES without psychiatric or neurologic comorbidities and twenty-seven healthy controls underwent resting-state functional MR imaging at 3.0T (Philips Achieva). Additional neuropsychological testing included Raven's Matrices test and dissociation questionnaires. ICA with dual regression was used to identify resting-state networks in all participants, and spatial maps of the networks of interest were compared between patients and healthy controls. RESULTS Patients displayed higher dissociation scores, lower cognitive performance and increased contribution of the orbitofrontal, insular and subcallosal cortex in the fronto-parietal network; the cingulate and insular cortex in the executive control network; the cingulate gyrus, superior parietal lobe, pre- and postcentral gyri and supplemental motor cortex in the sensorimotor network; and the precuneus and (para-) cingulate gyri in the default-mode network. The connectivity strengths within these regions of interest significantly correlated with dissociation scores. No between-group differences were found within the visual network, which was examined to determine specificity of between-group differences. CONCLUSIONS PNES patients displayed abnormalities in several resting-state networks that provide neuronal correlates for an underlying dissociation mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie J M van der Kruijs
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Centre Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, The Netherlands; Departments of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sridhar R Jagannathan
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Nynke M G Bodde
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Centre Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, The Netherlands
| | - René M H Besseling
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Centre Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, The Netherlands; Departments of Radiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Richard H C Lazeron
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Centre Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, The Netherlands
| | - Kristl E J Vonck
- Reference Centre for Refractory Epilepsy, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul A J M Boon
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Centre Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, The Netherlands; Reference Centre for Refractory Epilepsy, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pierre J M Cluitmans
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Centre Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, The Netherlands; Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Paul A M Hofman
- Departments of Radiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Walter H Backes
- Departments of Radiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Albert P Aldenkamp
- Department of Research and Development, Epilepsy Centre Kempenhaeghe, Heeze, The Netherlands; Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands; Departments of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Reference Centre for Refractory Epilepsy, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jacobus F A Jansen
- Departments of Radiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
AbstractObjectives: To examine the prevalence, psychiatric co-morbidity and management of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in patients admitted to a tertiary referral Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU).Methods: Medical records of patients admitted to the EMU between 2003 and 2005 were examined and data from neurological, neuropsychiatric and neuropsychological assessments were analysed.Results: Over a three year period 224 patients were referred to the EMU and 44 (20%) were diagnosed with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). A total of 13 people (6%) were diagnosed with both PNES and epilepsy. Of those diagnosed with PNES 34 (75%) were referred to psychology services for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and 26 (58%) were followed-up by psychiatry services.Conclusions: The prevalence rates for PNES and co-existing PNES and epilepsy are consistent with previous reports. Rates of psychiatric co-morbidity were less than would be expected in this clinical population. Clear evidence-based guidelines to manage people with PNES are required.
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Rayport SF, Schell CA. The diagnostic and therapeutic challenge of nonepileptic seizures: An interdisciplinary approach. EPILEPSY & BEHAVIOR CASE REPORTS 2014; 2:60-3. [PMID: 25667871 PMCID: PMC4308099 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebcr.2014.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Revised: 03/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Nonepileptic seizures were recognized in antiquity, but their diagnosis continues to be challenging in the present day. The diagnosis of seizures as nonepileptic has been based on associated physical conditions, social factors, laboratory findings, or psychological test findings. Pitfalls remain in the use of electroencephalography. We present several case studies of representative etiologies that demonstrate the value and the need for an interdisciplinary approach focusing on the individual, in the present, in all current dimensions, with careful consideration of seizure phenomena, physical explanations for symptoms, and psychodynamic profile in order to make the diagnosis and formulate successful treatment. This interdisciplinary approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of nonepileptic seizures and, more often, leads to successful outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carolyn A Schell
- Medical College of Ohio (currently University of Toledo), Toledo, OH, USA
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41
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Specialist management of routine dental procedures in adults with refractory epilepsy. Br Dent J 2014; 216:403-7. [DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2014.247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Gul A, Ahmad H. Cognitive deficits and emotion regulation strategies in patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: a task-switching study. Epilepsy Behav 2014; 32:108-13. [PMID: 24531134 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 01/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the task-switching ability and emotion regulation strategies in 72 patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) and 72 healthy individuals, where participants categorized emotion and age dimensions among faces. Results demonstrated cognitive impairment in terms of the interrupted ability to switch between emotion and nonemotion face categorizations in patients with PNES. In contrast, healthy individuals exhibited efficient switching between these face categorizations. In patients with PNES, there was an asymmetric relationship between emotion and age tasks, while this asymmetry was absent in the healthy group. The results demonstrated that patients with PNES used expressive suppression to regulate their emotions more frequently than the control group. On the other hand, patients with PNES less frequently reappraised their cognitions than healthy individuals. Switching deficits in patients with PNES were positively correlated with expressive suppression but were negatively correlated with cognitive reappraisal. This is the first study demonstrating the presence of switching deficits in terms of inferior cognitive control of emotion in patients with PNES as compared to healthy individuals. The switching deficits are associated with emotion regulation strategies. These findings suggest that emotion regulation strategies are significant markers of switching deficits in patients with PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amara Gul
- Department of Applied Psychology, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan.
| | - Hira Ahmad
- Department of Applied Psychology, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan.
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Gedzelman ER, LaRoche SM. Long-term video EEG monitoring for diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2014; 10:1979-86. [PMID: 25342907 PMCID: PMC4206377 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s49531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures have long been known by many names. A short list includes hysteroepilepsy, hysterical seizures, pseudoseizures, nonepileptic events, nonepileptic spells, nonepileptic seizures, and psychogenic nonepileptic attacks. These events are typically misdiagnosed for years and are frequently treated as electrographic seizures and epilepsy. These patients experience all the side effects of antiepileptic drugs and none of the benefits. Video electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring is the gold standard diagnostic test that can make a clear distinction between psychogenic nonepileptic seizures and epilepsy. Video EEG allows us to correctly characterize the patient's events and therefore properly diagnose and direct management. As a result, years of faulty management and wasted health care dollars can be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan R Gedzelman
- Department of Neurology, Emory Epilepsy Program, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Rofé Y, Rofé Y. Conversion Disorder: A Review Through the Prism of the Rational-Choice Theory of Neurosis. EUROPES JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.5964/ejop.v9i4.621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Marie Gillig P. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. INNOVATIONS IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2013; 10:15-8. [PMID: 24563816 PMCID: PMC3931180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE All patients who exhibit seizure-like behavior cannot be evaluated by video-electroencephalography if their routine EEGs are negative, as this would be impractical and cost-prohibitive. The present article reviews a decision-making process that can be used for determining if further neurological evaluation is needed, the differential diagnoses and potential comorbidities involved when making this determination, and an approach to conveying the psychogenic nonepileptic seizure diagnosis to the patient that may help reduce symptom frequency. DESIGN Literature review. CONCLUSION Psychogenic seizures are not caused by abnormal brain electrical activity. The symptoms of psychogenic seizures usually reflect a psychological conflict or a psychiatric disorder. However, psychogenic seizures are not "purposely" produced by the patient, and the patient is not aware that the seizures are non-epileptic, so the patient may become very anxious over having these symptoms. The presentation of the differential diagnosis should be done early in the course of treatment for better patient acceptance, and treatment options should be presented early in the evaluation period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulette Marie Gillig
- Dr. Gillig is Professor of Psychiatry and Faculty of the Graduate School, Department of Psychiatry Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio
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LaFrance WC, Reuber M, Goldstein LH. Management of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsia 2013; 54 Suppl 1:53-67. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- W. Curt LaFrance
- Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology Division; Rhode Island Hospital; Brown University, Alpert Medical School; Providence; Rhode Island; U.S.A
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit; Royal Hallamshire Hospital; University of Sheffield; Sheffield; United Kingdom
| | - Laura H. Goldstein
- Department of Psychology; Institute of Psychiatry; King's College London; London; United Kingdom
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The Effect of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors on the Frequency of Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. Neurologist 2013; 19:30-3. [DOI: 10.1097/nrl.0b013e31827c6bfd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Petkar S, Hamid T, Iddon P, Clifford A, Rice N, Claire R, McKee D, Curtis N, Cooper PN, Fitzpatrick AP. Prolonged implantable electrocardiographic monitoring indicates a high rate of misdiagnosis of epilepsy--REVISE study. Europace 2012; 14:1653-60. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/eus185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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Goldstein LH, Mellers JDC. Recent Developments in Our Understanding of the Semiology and Treatment of Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2012; 12:436-44. [DOI: 10.1007/s11910-012-0278-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Widdess-Walsh P, Mostacci B, Tinuper P, Devinsky O. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2012; 107:277-295. [PMID: 22938977 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52898-8.00017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Treatment for PNES must be individualized. A combination of approaches is probably the most beneficial for improvement. Treatment should not simply emphasize removing maladaptive PNES behaviour, but should also focus on learning new coping skills and removing secondary gains. If PNES persist, therapy should be re-evaluated.
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