Treatment Approaches for Functional Neurological Disorders in Children.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatrics
• Psychology

Background:

• Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a common, complex neurological condition in children, impacting individuals, families, and healthcare systems.
• Diagnosis and treatment initiation involve medical, interpersonal, communication, and logistical considerations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current treatment approaches for pediatric FND.
• To highlight the effectiveness of a biopsychosocial model in managing FND symptoms.
• To advocate for a stepped care approach tailored to individual pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent treatment evaluations in North America and Australia.
• Analysis of common elements across successful pediatric FND programs.
• Synthesis of research supporting a biopsychosocial and stepped care framework.

Main Results:

• Three main treatment approaches (ReACT, CBT, multidisciplinary rehabilitation) showed high efficacy.
• 63-95% of children experienced full FND symptom resolution with these programs.
• A consistent biopsychosocial approach underpins successful interventions.

Conclusions:

• A biopsychosocial framework is strongly supported for pediatric FND.
• A stepped care model, adaptable to patient response, is recommended for treatment.
• Further research is needed to refine stepped care interventions and efficacy measures.