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Seizures and pseudoseizures: The great divide
1Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States.
Progress in Brain Research
|June 6, 2022
Summary
Distinguishing psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) from epilepsy is crucial. Effective treatment for PNES involves cognitive behavioral therapy, not medication.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are often misdiagnosed as epilepsy.
- These seizures cause significant patient distress and disability.
- Differentiating PNES from epileptic seizures is clinically challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline clinical distinctions between PNES and epileptic seizures.
- To explore the mechanisms underlying PNES.
- To review current treatment outcomes for PNES.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of clinical signs and symptoms.
- Review of diagnostic criteria and electroencephalography (EEG) findings.
- Examination of treatment efficacy for PNES.
Main Results:
- PNES lack epileptiform activity on EEG, unlike epileptic seizures.
- Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate anticonvulsant treatment for PNES.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy is the primary treatment for PNES.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of PNES is essential for appropriate management.
- Understanding PNES mechanisms aids in targeted therapeutic approaches.
- Successful treatment of PNES can significantly improve patient quality of life.
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