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Published on: May 16, 2019
Clinical spectrum of psychogenic non epileptic seizures in children; an observational study
Priyanka Madaan1, Sheffali Gulati1, Biswaroop Chakrabarty1
1Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India.
Insights
Dialeptic Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) are most common in children. Short-term video electroencephalogram (STVEEG) with induction offers reliable diagnosis for pediatric PNES, especially in resource-limited areas.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychiatry
- Clinical Neurophysiology
Background:
- Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) present a diagnostic challenge in children.
- Understanding the clinical spectrum is crucial for effective management.
- Previous studies have highlighted varied presentations and diagnostic delays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical spectrum of Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) in pediatric patients.
- To evaluate diagnostic methods and identify common comorbidities and stressors.
- To inform comprehensive management strategies for pediatric PNES.
Main Methods:
- Study included 80 children aged 6-16 years with suspected PNES.
- Diagnosis confirmed using short-term video electroencephalogram (STVEEG) and induction.
- Assessments included stressors, comorbidities, IQ, and behavioral abnormalities via standardized tests and criteria.
Main Results:
- Dialeptic semiology was the most frequent type of PNES (42.5%).
- A median diagnostic delay of 5 months was observed, with 45% of patients already on antiepileptic drugs.
- Family stressors were prevalent, and adjustment disorder was the most common psychiatric comorbidity.
Conclusions:
- Dialeptic PNES is the predominant subtype in children.
- STVEEG with induction is a reliable diagnostic tool for pediatric PNES, particularly in resource-constrained settings.
- A holistic management approach requires comprehensive assessment, including evaluation of stressors.
Purpose:
The current study was designed to analyze the clinical spectrum of Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in children.
Methods:
Children aged 6-16years with clinically suspected PNES, confirmed by short-term VEEG (STVEEG{video electroencephalogram}) and induction were classified as per Seneviratne classification. Stressors, associated co morbidities, Verbal IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and behavioral abnormalities were assessed using HTP(House tree person) test, DSM IV (Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders) TR criteria, MISIC (Malin intelligence scale for Indian children) and CBCL (Child behaviour checklist).
Results:
Eighty children with PNES {45 boys; mean age: 10.5 (±1.6) years} were enrolled. Median delay in diagnosis was 5 months {IQR(interquartile range)- 0.5 to 48 months}) and 45% patients were already on AEDs (antiepileptic drugs). Commonest semiology was dialeptic (42.5%), followed by mixed (28.8%), motor (15%) and nonepileptic aura (13.8%). Family stressors were the commonest followed by school related issues. The most common psychiatric comorbidity was adjustment disorder. Somatic complaints were observed in 50% children.
Conclusions:
Dialeptic PNES is commonest in children. In resource constrained settings, STVEEG along with induction is a reliable method to diagnose PNES. A comprehensive assessment protocol (including assessment of stressors) is needed for holistic management of pediatric PNES.
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