Functional (psychogenic) movement disorders.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Functional movement disorders (FMD) are increasingly recognized, shifting from 'psychogenic' to 'functional' to reflect a multifactorial disease model.
• The pathophysiology of FMD is being explored, integrating neurobiological and psychosocial elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in the diagnosis, pathophysiology, neuroimaging, and management of functional (psychogenic) movement disorders (FMD).

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on FMD.
• Analysis of studies on pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.

Main Results:

• A broadened disease model for FMD incorporating neurobiological and psychosocial factors.
• Development of 'laboratory-supported' diagnostic criteria for FMD.
• Evidence of abnormal sensorimotor features and cortical inhibition, potentially shared with organic dystonia.
• Reported benefits from psychiatric and physical therapy interventions.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced understanding of FMD with a broader, multifactorial disease model.
• Establishment of laboratory-based diagnostic criteria supports clinical diagnosis.
• Need for closer collaboration between neurologists and psychiatrists and more research for effective management strategies.