Episodic neurological dysfunction due to mass hysteria.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Episodes resembling seizures or syncopal attacks affected 10 students at a rural secondary school.
• Initial diagnoses included epilepsy and syncope, leading to unnecessary treatments for some students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a case series of suspected mass hysteria in a school setting.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing mass hysteria to prevent misdiagnosis and inappropriate medical interventions.

Main Methods:

• Case description of 10 students presenting with similar episodes.
• Analysis of temporal patterns, including resolution during a school holiday.
• Video-electroencephalography (VEEG) confirmation of pseudoseizures in 4 students.

Main Results:

• Episodes resolved simultaneously during a school holiday.
• Four students were diagnosed with pseudoseizures via VEEG, supporting mass hysteria.
• Seven students received antiepileptic medications, and most underwent extensive diagnostic testing.

Conclusions:

• The pattern of episodes strongly suggests mass hysteria rather than organic neurological conditions.
• Prompt identification of mass hysteria is crucial for appropriate patient management and public reassurance.
• Avoiding unnecessary diagnostic tests and treatments reduces healthcare costs and patient burden.