Epidemiology of Functional Neurological Disorder: The Clinical Spectrum

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a prevalent, neuropsychiatric condition characterized by symptoms of impaired motor, sensory, cognitive, or perceptual systems. This study reviews the incidence, prevalence, demographic factors, risk factors, comorbidities, prognosis, and economic impact of FND and its subtypes. FND affects individuals across the lifespan and is more common in women, with socioeconomic and cultural factors also playing critical roles. FND is frequently comorbid with other functional syndromes, psychiatric and neurological disorders. Incidence estimates range from 10 to 16 per 100,000, with prevalence estimates between 79 and 144 per 100,000. Prognosis is poor without early intervention, with long diagnostic delays contributing to chronic symptoms and disability. FND accounts for significant healthcare utilization and economic burden. Evidently, there is a clear need for standardized diagnostic approaches and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve epidemiological accuracy and clinical outcomes.