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Psychogenic movement disorders

Janis M Miyasaki1, Daniel S Sa, Nestor Galvez-Jimenez

  • 1Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Centre, Toronto Western Hospital, Department of Medicine (Neurology), University of Toronto, ON, Canada.

The Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences. Le Journal Canadien Des Sciences Neurologiques
|April 15, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Psychogenic movement disorders (PMD) are complex neurological conditions affecting 2-25% of neurology patients. This article details their recognition, differentiation from organic causes, and modern treatment approaches.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Neuroscience
  • Psychiatry

Background:

  • Psychogenic movement disorders (PMD) have been recognized since the nineteenth century.
  • These disorders represent a significant portion of cases in modern neurology clinics, ranging from 2-25% of the patient population.
  • Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of PMDs remain challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of psychogenic movement disorders.
  • To outline methods for recognizing various types of PMDs.
  • To differentiate PMDs from organic neurological conditions and suggest treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of historical and contemporary literature on psychogenic movement disorders.
  • Clinical case analysis and diagnostic criteria discussion.
  • Exploration of differential diagnostic approaches.

Main Results:

  • PMDs encompass a range of movement abnormalities with psychogenic origins.
  • Key features aid in distinguishing PMDs from organic neurological diseases.
  • A structured approach to management is essential for patient care.

Conclusions:

  • Early and accurate recognition of PMDs is crucial for effective management.
  • Differentiating PMDs from organic disorders requires careful clinical evaluation.
  • A multidisciplinary approach may be beneficial for treating patients with psychogenic movement disorders.

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