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Related Concept Videos

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Epilepsy is primarily characterized by unpredictable seizures, either provoked by an identifiable factor, such as injury or illness, or unprovoked, occurring spontaneously without apparent cause.
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Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by pervasive, uncontrolled sleepiness and other sleep disturbances. One of its hallmark symptoms is an abrupt transition to REM sleep upon falling asleep, which causes symptoms typically associated with this phase to occur unexpectedly during wakefulness. These include the following symptoms, which typically last from a minute or two to half an hour.
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γ-aminobutyric acid or GABA, plays a pivotal role as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. GABA pathway potentiators, also known as GABAergic drugs, are a class of pharmaceutical agents designed to enhance the functioning of the GABAergic system. These medications primarily treat epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
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Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.

Robert C Doss1, W Curt LaFrance2

  • 1Minnesota Epilepsy Group, PA,, Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minnesota.

Epileptic Disorders : International Epilepsy Journal with Videotape
|November 8, 2016
PubMed
Summary

Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are often misdiagnosed as epilepsy, leading to significant costs and distress. Early identification and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for effective PNES management and improved patient outcomes.

Keywords:
diagnosisepilepsynon-epileptic seizurespsychiatrictreatment

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Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Psychiatry
  • Psychology

Background:

  • Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are frequently observed in epilepsy monitoring units, affecting 10-40% of patients.
  • Misdiagnosis of PNES as epilepsy incurs substantial economic costs and mental health burdens.
  • Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for patient recovery and improved quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a practical guide for the early identification and diagnosis of PNES.
  • To summarize key historical and semiological factors indicative of PNES.
  • To outline strategies for effective communication and multidisciplinary treatment of PNES.

Main Methods:

  • Review of medical history and seizure semiology to identify diagnostic indicators for PNES.
  • Discussion of diagnostic challenges and strategies for accurate PNES identification.
  • Emphasis on a coordinated, multidisciplinary team approach for patient care.

Main Results:

  • PNES is a common condition often mistaken for epilepsy.
  • Specific patient history and seizure characteristics can suggest a diagnosis of PNES.
  • Effective management requires a coordinated approach involving neurology, psychiatry, and allied health professionals.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate and early diagnosis of PNES is critical to avoid the negative consequences of misdiagnosis.
  • A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach is recommended for diagnosing and treating PNES.
  • Addressing PNES promptly improves psychological functioning and social-vocational outcomes.