Panic and epilepsy in adults: A systematic review
Adrienne L Johnson1, Alison C McLeish2, Paula K Shear3
1Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, PO Box 210376, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0376, USA.
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|June 26, 2018
Summary
Adults with epilepsy have higher rates of panic attacks, and those with panic disorder have higher rates of epilepsy. More research is needed to differentiate panic attacks from seizures.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Panic disorder and epilepsy share overlapping symptoms, particularly ictal fear and panic attacks.
- Existing research presents inconsistent findings regarding the co-occurrence of these conditions.
- Methodological limitations in differentiating panic from epilepsy hinder accurate assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review empirical literature on the co-occurrence of panic and epilepsy in adults.
- To determine the risk of panic attacks/disorder in adults with epilepsy.
- To assess the risk of epilepsy in adults with panic disorder.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted in relevant electronic databases.
- Included studies focused on panic and epilepsy in adult populations.
- Seventeen articles were selected for the review.
Main Results:
- Elevated rates of epilepsy were observed in individuals with panic disorder.
- Elevated rates of panic attacks were found in individuals with epilepsy.
- Rates of panic disorder among people with epilepsy were inconsistent across studies.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests a bidirectional relationship between panic and epilepsy.
- Most studies lack rigorous methods to differentiate panic disorder from epilepsy.
- Developing standardized procedures to distinguish ictal fear from panic attacks is crucial for future research.
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