[Functional Neurological Disorders - A Common but Often Unrecognized Diagnosis]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry

Context:

• Functional neurological disorders (FNDs) are frequent and present with diverse clinical manifestations.
• While psychological factors contribute to symptom development and perpetuation, psychiatric comorbidities are not required for diagnosis.

Purpose:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of functional neurological disorders.
• To emphasize key diagnostic and therapeutic considerations for FNDs.

Summary:

• Diagnosis relies on anamnesis and positive clinical signs, not solely on psychiatric comorbidities.
• Highlighting symptom commonness and reversibility, alongside demonstrating positive clinical signs, is crucial during consultations.
• Adopting the neutral term "functional neurological disorder" and employing science-based explanations and the bio-psycho-social model aids patient understanding.

Impact:

• Facilitates accurate diagnosis and recognition of FNDs.
• Improves patient understanding and therapeutic outcomes through clear communication and evidence-based models.
• Promotes interdisciplinary and multimodal treatment approaches for these potentially reversible conditions.