Functional communication disorders: a systematic review of interventions to improve outcomes in adults

To determine what evidence there is for the effectiveness/efficacy of interventions to improve outcomes in adults with Functional Communication Disorders (FCDs).

Seven electronic databases were searched via two platforms. The review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Population comprised adults with any specific communication diagnosis with a functional aetiology. We included studies of any type of behavioural intervention which targeted FCD, with any comparator. All outcomes related to communication were included. There were no restrictions on year or language of publication.

Seven studies were included in the review. Studies used different interventions and outcome measures thus meta-analysis was not performed. Six studies described interventions for functional voice disorders and one for functional stuttering. Interventions tended to include elements of patient education, standard voice or speech therapy, and a psychological support component. Study quality was generally poor.

There is a lack of high-quality research to guide clinicians on evidence-based interventions for the full range of FCDs. There were some common themes within the interventions offered, but the overall poor quality of studies makes it difficult to draw conclusions on the effectiveness and efficacy of these interventions.