M Raquel Lopez1,2, W Curt LaFrance3,4. 1. University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL, 33136, USA. mrlopez@miami.edu. 2. VA Miami Health Care System, Miami, FL, USA. mrlopez@miami.edu. 3. Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. 4. VA Providence Health Care System, Providence, RI, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are the most common Functional Neurological Disorder/Conversion Disorder subtype. Significant advances have been made related to diagnosis, neurobiology, and treatment. In this review, we summarize updates in diagnosis and management over the past 3 years. RECENT FINDINGS: Although evidence is mixed for the treatment of PNES, psychotherapeutic modalities remain a powerful instrument to empower patients and reduce seizures. A multidisciplinary, holistic approach is beneficial. While seizure freedom in all patients may not be the achieved endpoint in this chronic, paroxysmal disorder, quality of life can be improved with treatment. Additional treatment modalities and further research are needed for patients who are refractory to current treatment. Evidence-based therapies exist for PNES, and recent findings represent an increased understanding of the clinical and neurophysiologic aspects of PNES.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are the most common Functional Neurological Disorder/Conversion Disorder subtype. Significant advances have been made related to diagnosis, neurobiology, and treatment. In this review, we summarize updates in diagnosis and management over the past 3 years. RECENT FINDINGS: Although evidence is mixed for the treatment of PNES, psychotherapeutic modalities remain a powerful instrument to empower patients and reduce seizures. A multidisciplinary, holistic approach is beneficial. While seizure freedom in all patients may not be the achieved endpoint in this chronic, paroxysmal disorder, quality of life can be improved with treatment. Additional treatment modalities and further research are needed for patients who are refractory to current treatment. Evidence-based therapies exist for PNES, and recent findings represent an increased understanding of the clinical and neurophysiologic aspects of PNES.
Authors: Markus Reuber; Ralf Pukrop; Jürgen Bauer; Christoph Helmstaedter; Natalie Tessendorf; Christian Erich Elger Journal: Ann Neurol Date: 2003-03 Impact factor: 10.422