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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
19:53
Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
A real reason for patients with pseudobulbar affect to smile
Howard J Rosen1, Jeffrey Cummings
1Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco 94143, USA. hrosen@memory.ucsf.edu
Annals of Neurology
|January 11, 2007
Summary
Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is a neurological disorder causing uncontrollable emotional outbursts. Early diagnosis and available treatments can significantly improve patients' quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is characterized by uncontrollable laughing or crying episodes.
- PBA significantly impacts social functioning and quality of life.
- It is associated with various neurological conditions affecting the brain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of PBA.
- To highlight the importance of accurate PBA diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PBA studies.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and treatment efficacy.
Main Results:
- PBA episodes can cause significant social embarrassment and isolation.
- Differential diagnosis from depression is crucial.
- Several treatments, including antidepressants and a dextromethorphan/quinidine combination, show effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of PBA is essential for effective management.
- Emerging treatment options offer substantial benefits to patients.
- Further research into PBA pathophysiology is warranted.
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