Functional Movement Disorders: Updates and Clinical Overview

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Functional movement disorder (FMD) is a prevalent functional neurological disorder often presenting diagnostic and management challenges.
• FMD manifests in various phenotypes, including tremor, dystonia, myoclonus, gait disturbances, and parkinsonism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a practical overview of functional movement disorder (FMD).
• To discuss the role of the clinical encounter in patient acceptance of the FMD diagnosis.
• To review recent neuroimaging findings relevant to FMD pathophysiology.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical examination techniques for suspected FMD.
• Discussion of diagnostic testing maneuvers.
• Examination of multidisciplinary treatment protocols (outpatient and inpatient).

Main Results:

• A structured clinical examination and specific diagnostic maneuvers are crucial for assessing FMD.
• Multidisciplinary treatment approaches are most effective for managing FMD.
• Neuroimaging studies are advancing the understanding of FMD pathophysiology.

Conclusions:

• Despite improved recognition, FMD diagnosis and management remain challenging for patients and clinicians.
• The clinical encounter is vital for fostering patient acceptance of an FMD diagnosis.
• Continued research, particularly in neuroimaging, is essential for elucidating FMD pathophysiology and improving care.