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Barak S, Landa J, Eisenstein E, Gerner M, Ravid Vulkan T, Neeman-Verblun E, Silberg T. Agreement and disagreement in pediatric functional neurological symptom disorders: Comparing patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) and clinician assessments. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 24:350-361. [PMID: 38741721 PMCID: PMC11089279 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Youth with functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD) often perceive themselves as having limited capabilities, which may not align with clinical evaluations. This study assessed the disparities between clinician evaluations and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) regarding pain, motor function, and learning difficulties in youth with FNSD. Sixty-two youths with FNSD participated in this study, all of whom reported experiencing pain, motor problems, and/or learning difficulties. Clinicians also assessed these domains, resulting in a two-by-two categorization matrix: (1) agreement: child and clinician report "problems"; (2) agreement: child and clinician report "no problems"; (3) disagreement: child reports "problems" while the clinician does not; and (4) disagreement: clinician reports "problems" while the child does not. Agreement/disagreement differences were analyzed. No significant differences in prevalence were observed between the evaluators regarding pain (clinician-85%, child-88%), motor (clinician-98%, child-95%), or learning problems (clinician-69%, child-61%). More than 80% of the children and clinicians report pain and motor disorders. Instances in which children and clinicians reported learning problems (40.3%) exceeded cases in which both reported no problems (9.6%) or only the child reported problems (20.9%). Overall, the agreement between pain and motor function assessments was high (>90%), whereas that concerning learning difficulties was moderate (49.9%). Disagreement in pain/motor assessments was minimal (<5%), whereas for learning difficulties, disagreement rates were high (>20%). In conclusion, a significant concordance exists between PROMs and clinician assessments of pain and motor problems. However, the higher frequency of disagreements regarding learning difficulties emphasizes the importance of incorporating patient and clinician evaluations in pediatric FNSD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Barak
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Ramat-Gan 5262000, Israel
| | - J. Landa
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Ramat-Gan 5262000, Israel
- The Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 39040, Israel
| | - E. Eisenstein
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Ramat-Gan 5262000, Israel
| | - M. Gerner
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Ramat-Gan 5262000, Israel
| | - T. Ravid Vulkan
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Ramat-Gan 5262000, Israel
| | - E. Neeman-Verblun
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Ramat-Gan 5262000, Israel
| | - T. Silberg
- Department of Pediatric Rehabilitation, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, The Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Ramat-Gan 5262000, Israel
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 5290002, Israel
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Lawlor M, Huynh B, Humphreys K, Ogunbowale L, Kopelman MD, Plant GT. Observational cohort study of 100 patients presenting with functional visual loss: clinical characteristics and comparison with other functional neurologic disorders. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2024:S0008-4182(24)00063-2. [PMID: 38580217 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjo.2024.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent research has helped to develop a more detailed understanding of many functional neurologic disorders. The aim of this study was to increase our knowledge of functional visual loss and to compare the findings with those of other functional syndromes. DESIGN Prospective and retrospective observational cohort study. METHODS This study took place at neuro-ophthalmology clinics at 3 major hospitals in London, United Kingdom, over a 12-month period. The study population consisted of 157 participants, 100 with functional visual loss, 21 pathologic control subjects with organic visual loss, and 36 healthy nonpathologic control subjects. All participants had their diagnosis confirmed with a full neuro-ophthalmic examination, neuroimaging, and visual electrophysiology. A full assessment of all participants' medical history was obtained from their general practitioner, and all participants completed a series of questionnaires assessing relevant associations. RESULTS Data were obtained on 157 participants, 100 with functional visual loss, 21 pathologic control subjects with organic visual loss, and 36 healthy nonpathologic control subjects. Participants with functional visual loss were typically female (74%) with a mean age at vision loss of 40.0 ± 16 years. Sixty-four percent of participants had bilateral vision loss; the remainder, unilateral loss. Twenty-six percent of the total cohort had organic visual loss with functional overlay. Fifty percent of participants with functional visual loss had a preexisting psychiatric diagnosis, the most common being a depressive disorder. Sixty-two percent of participants had an ocular history, and 87% had a previously diagnosed medical illness, most commonly neurologic (45%). Thirty-five percent of participants self-reported at least 1 additional functional symptom. CONCLUSIONS Our population of functional visual loss subjects shares many similarities with the majority of patients with other functional neurologic disorders. They are generally young and female and have a greater than expected rate of psychiatric, medical, and coexisting ocular conditions. We found increased rates of precipitating stressors, clinical depression, and organic eye problems in subjects with functional visual loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Lawlor
- Save Sight Institute, Sydney, Australia; Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Brandon Huynh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Kate Humphreys
- Cleveland Clinic London Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neuropsychiatry and Memory Disorders, St. Thomas Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lola Ogunbowale
- Department of Neuro-Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael D Kopelman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon Terence Plant
- Department of Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Scheurich JA, Klaas KM, Sim LA, Weiss KE, Case HF, Harbeck-Weber C. Characteristics and outcomes of youth with functional seizures attending intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 153:109689. [PMID: 38447301 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Functional seizures (FS) can be debilitating and negatively impact quality of life. Yet intervention research for FS is limited, especially for youth. This study examined clinical characteristics and outcomes of youth with FS (13-23 years) presenting to a pediatric intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment (IIPT) program in the midwestern United States. Sixty youth (mean age = 16.5 years; 83.3 % female) met inclusion criteria. At intake, comorbid chronic pain, somatic symptoms, autonomic dysfunction, eating and weight disturbances, and mental health concerns were common. Despite this high symptom burden, youth with FS reported significant improvements in functioning measured with the Functional Disability Inventory, t(53) = 9.80, p <.001, d = 1.32; depression measured with the Center for Epidemiological Studies - Depression Scale for Children, t(53) = 6.76, p <.001, d = 0.91; anxiety measured with the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale, t(53) = 3.97, p < .001, d = 0.53; and catastrophizing measured with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale for Children, t(53) = 6.44, p <.001, d = 0.86, following completion of the program, suggesting that IIPT may be an effective treatment option for highly disabled and emotionally distressed youth with FS. Future research is needed to continue to refine best practices for youth with FS to reduce suffering and improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Scheurich
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA; University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, 2411 Holmes St, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
| | - Kelsey M Klaas
- Department of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Leslie A Sim
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Karen E Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Hannah F Case
- Department of Otolaryngology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street STOP 8315, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Cynthia Harbeck-Weber
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Fernandez A, Askenazy F, Zeghari R, Auby P, Robert P, Thümmler S, Gindt M. Somatic and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in Children and Adolescents in France. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e247193. [PMID: 38635269 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.7193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Somatic symptoms are a major concern among the pediatric population because of frequency and burden. The association between adverse childhood experiences and somatic symptoms in adults is well established but less is known concerning somatic symptoms in young people. Objective To explore the frequency and intensity of somatic symptoms in children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1 to December 31, 2021, at the Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Referral Center in Nice, France. Participants included pediatric outpatients, aged 7 to 17 years, who were referred to the center. Statistical analysis was performed in January 2022. Exposure All participants experienced at least 1 traumatic event during life. Main Outcome and Measure Somatic and posttraumatic stress symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-13 (PHQ-13) and Child PTSD Checklist (CPC). Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and non-PTSD groups were defined based on CPC symptoms severity score. In the hypothesized association between somatic symptoms and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), PTSD and non-PTSD groups were compared, correlations between PTSS and severity of CPC were analyzed, and a regression model was performed. Results There were 363 participants included (mean [SD] age, 13.58 [0.25] years; 174 [47.9%] female, 189 [52.1%] male). Compared with the non-PTSD group, the PTSD group presented with a higher mean (SD) number of somatic symptoms (7.0 [2.5] vs 4.0 [2.5] symptoms; t360 = 11.7; P < .001), and higher mean (SD) intensity (10.4 [4.6] vs 4.8 [3.7] points; t360 = 12.6; P < .001). Most of the explored somatic symptoms positively correlated with the intensity of PTSS and their functional alterations (eg, PTSS intensity correlated with stomach pain symptoms [r = .30; P < .001]; and with headaches symptoms [r = .44; P < .001]). In the regression model, the combination of migraines, palpitation, nausea, tiredness, and sleep disorders explained 6.5% of the variance in the PTSD group. (F1,341 = 22.651; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study, somatic symptoms were positively correlated with PTSS both in frequency and intensity among youths. These results suggest that the systematic screening for somatic symptoms in youths with traumatic exposure should be a routine evaluation procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Fernandez
- Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Center, University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
- CoBTek, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Centre Régional du Psychotraumatisme PACA, Nice, France
| | - Florence Askenazy
- Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Center, University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
- CoBTek, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Centre Régional du Psychotraumatisme PACA, Nice, France
| | - Radia Zeghari
- Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Center, University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
- CoBTek, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Philippe Auby
- Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Center, University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
- CoBTek, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Philippe Robert
- Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Center, University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
- CoBTek, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Susanne Thümmler
- Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Center, University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
- CoBTek, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Morgane Gindt
- Nice Pediatric Psychotrauma Center, University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Children's Hospitals of Nice CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
- CoBTek, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Centre Régional du Psychotraumatisme PACA, Nice, France
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Wilkinson-Smith A, Lerario MP, Klindt KN, Waugh JL. A Case Series of Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming Patients in a Pediatric Functional Neurologic Disorder Clinic. J Child Neurol 2023; 38:631-641. [PMID: 37691316 DOI: 10.1177/08830738231200520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Youth who identify as transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) are at increased risk of anxiety, depression, bullying, and loss of social and family support. These factors may increase the risk of developing functional neurologic disorder (FND). If the risk of FND is increased in TGNC youth, then identifying which youth are at increased risk, and the particular times when risk is increased, may allow for earlier diagnosis and treatment of FND. Better awareness of functional symptoms among clinicians who care for TGNC youth may prevent disruption of gender-affirming care if FND symptoms emerge. Patients diagnosed with FND who are TGNC may require different forms of intervention than other youth with FND. We present 4 cases from our multidisciplinary pediatric FND program of TGNC youth who developed FND. In all individuals for whom follow-up information was available, access to gender-affirming health care was associated with marked improvement or resolution of FND symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Wilkinson-Smith
- Department of Psychiatry, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Mackenzie P Lerario
- Fordham Graduate School of Social Service, New York, NY, USA
- Greenburgh Pride, Greenburgh, NY, USA
| | - Kelsey N Klindt
- Department of Psychiatry, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jeff L Waugh
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
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Lukich SD, Sarin A, Pierce JM, Russell MW, Malas N. Syncope and Unresponsiveness in an Adolescent With Comorbid Cardiac Disease: An Illustrative Case Report and Literature Review of Functional Neurologic Symptom Disorder. J Acad Consult Liaison Psychiatry 2023; 64:392-402. [PMID: 37001641 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaclp.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This case report with an associated literature review explores the challenges, opportunities, and current evidence in creating a thoughtful diagnostic and management plan for an adolescent with functional neurologic symptom disorder and comorbid cardiac disease. METHODS We performed a literature review utilizing PubMed to identify the current evidence base related to pediatric functional neurologic symptom disorder in the setting of comorbid cardiac disease. Ultimately, 25 manuscripts were identified for inclusion in this study. RESULTS We reported the recent epidemiology, screening, diagnostic, and treatment measures utilized in pediatric syncope with a focus on differentiating psychogenic causes from serious cardiac and benign etiologies. We further described how psychiatric and psychological factors influence assessment, management, and outcomes. CONCLUSIONS This study provides current, evidence-based suggestions for the assessment, diagnosis, and management of pediatric syncope, with an emphasis on recognizing psychogenic causes of syncope. It includes a description of a novel case of functional neurologic symptom disorder in a pediatric patient with structural cardiac disease. The study highlights how the absence of standardized guidelines, heterogeneity in care delivery, and lack of concurrent mental health management led to worse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stevan Donald Lukich
- Department of Pediatrics, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL.
| | - Aashima Sarin
- Central Michigan University Medical School, Mount Pleasant, MI
| | | | - Mark William Russell
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Nasuh Malas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
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7
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Kozlowska K, Chudleigh C, Savage B, Hawkes C, Scher S, Nunn KP. Evidence-Based Mind-Body Interventions for Children and Adolescents with Functional Neurological Disorder. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2023; 31:60-82. [PMID: 36884038 PMCID: PMC9997641 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
LEARNING OBJECTIVES • Develop and implement treatment plans for children and adolescents with functional neurological disorder (FND)• Outline a plan to increase awareness and standardize the care for patients with FND using evidence-based interventions. ABSTRACT Functional neurological disorder (FND) in children and adolescents involves the biological embedding of lived experience in the body and brain. This embedding culminates in stress-system activation or dysregulation and in aberrant changes in neural network function. In pediatric neurology clinics, FND represents up to one-fifth of patients. Current research shows good outcomes with prompt diagnosis and treatment using a biopsychosocial, stepped-care approach. At present, however-and worldwide-FND services are scarce, the result of long-standing stigma and ingrained belief that patients with FND do not suffer from a real ("organic") disorder and that they therefore do not require, or even deserve, treatment. Since 1994, the Mind-Body Program for children and adolescents with FND at The Children's Hospital at Westmead in Sydney, Australia-run by a consultation-liaison team-has delivered inpatient care to hundreds of patients with FND and outpatient care to hundreds of others. For less-disabled patients, the program enables community-based clinicians to implement biopsychosocial interventions locally by providing a positive diagnosis (by a neurologist or pediatrician), a biopsychosocial assessment and formulation (by clinicians from the consultation-liaison team), a physical therapy assessment, and clinical support (from the consultation-liaison team and the physiotherapist). In this Perspective we describe the elements of a biopsychosocial mind-body program intervention capable of providing, as needed, effective treatment to children and adolescents with FND. Our aim is to communicate to clinicians and institutions around the world what is needed to establish effective community treatment programs, as well as hospital inpatient and outpatient interventions, in their own health care settings.
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Gigliotti F, Di Santo F, Cesario S, Esposito D, Manti F, Galosi S, Ferrara M, Leuzzi V, Baglioni V. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and functional motor disorders in developmental age: A comparison of clinical and psychopathological features. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 140:109117. [PMID: 36804846 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) and Functional Motor Disorders (FMDs) commonly represent the main clinical manifestations of Functional Neurological Disorders (FNDs). Despite their high prevalence in pediatric neurological services, literature on this topic is still spare for this population. The present study aimed to deepen the clinical knowledge of a pediatric FNDs sample through a demographic and clinical characterization of the most recurrent clinical patterns during the pediatric age. Moreover, a comparison of neuropsychological and psychopathological profiles of PNES and FMD patients was carried out to identify specific vulnerabilities and therapeutic targets linked with these different clinical manifestations. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 43 FNDs patients (age range 7-17 years old) were retrospectively included in our study, enrolled in two subgroups: 20 with FMDs and 23 with PNES diagnosis. They were inpatients and outpatients referred over a period of 5 years and a standardized neurological, neuropsychological (WISC-IV/WAIS-IV), and psychiatric (CDI-2, MASC-2, ADES, DIS-Q, PID-5) evaluation was assessed. RESULTS In PNES patients the most common clinical phenotypes were functional tonic-clonic (52%) and atonic (32%) manifestations while in the FMDs group were gait alterations (60%), functional myoclonus (35%), and tremor (35%). A higher frequency of cognitive impairment was reported in PNES patients with higher anxiety-depressive symptom rates than FMDs patients. CONCLUSIONS Notably, specific neurocognitive and psychopathological profiles were described in PNES and FMDs, highlighting higher cognitive and psychiatric vulnerabilities in PNES, suggesting as well different strategy for therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Gigliotti
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - F Di Santo
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - S Cesario
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - D Esposito
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - F Manti
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - S Galosi
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - M Ferrara
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - V Leuzzi
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - V Baglioni
- Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Psychiatry, Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
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Perjoc RS, Roza E, Vladacenco OA, Teleanu DM, Neacsu R, Teleanu RI. Functional Neurological Disorder-Old Problem New Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1099. [PMID: 36673871 PMCID: PMC9859618 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a common issue in the pediatric population. The concept and our understanding of functional neurological disorders have changed over the past years, and new etiologic models and treatment plans have been explored. Knowledge about FND in the pediatric population, however, is lacking. The aim of this review is to provide an update on pediatric functional neurological disorder. We conducted a literature search of PubMed and SCOPUS databases and reviewed a total of 85 articles to gain insight into the current understanding of FND etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in children and adolescents. Functional and high resolution MRI revealed abnormal connectivity and structural changes in patients with functional symptoms. The diagnostic criteria no longer require the presence of a psychological factor and instead focus on a rule-in diagnosis. Treatment of FND includes a clear communication of the diagnosis and the support of a multidisciplinary team. Although FND typically has a poor prognosis, better outcomes appear to have been achieved in children and young adults. We conclude that pediatric functional neurological disorder is a prevalent pathology and that this patient population has additional specific needs compared to the adult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu-Stefan Perjoc
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- “Dr. Victor Gomoiu” Children’s Hospital, 022102 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eugenia Roza
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- “Dr. Victor Gomoiu” Children’s Hospital, 022102 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Oana Aurelia Vladacenco
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- “Dr. Victor Gomoiu” Children’s Hospital, 022102 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Mihai Teleanu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Emergency University Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Roxana Neacsu
- “Dr. Victor Gomoiu” Children’s Hospital, 022102 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Raluca Ioana Teleanu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- “Dr. Victor Gomoiu” Children’s Hospital, 022102 Bucharest, Romania
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Kline CL, Shamshair S, Kullgren KA, Leber SM, Malas N. A Review of the Impact of Sociodemographic Factors on the Assessment and Management of Pediatric Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders. J Acad Consult Liaison Psychiatry 2023; 64:58-64. [PMID: 36328180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaclp.2022.10.266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While factors such as race, sex, gender identity, and socioeconomic status impact the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of conditions, there are few studies examining their influence on somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRDs), particularly in the pediatric population. OBJECTIVE In this review, we outline the existing literature on how sociodemographic characteristics influence the overall care of pediatric SSRDs. Throughout this literature review, we highlight opportunities for further research, including potential disparities in evaluation, management, and outcomes along several sociodemographic domains. METHODS We conducted a thorough review of the evidence for potential impact of race, sex, gender identity, and socioeconomic status on the presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of pediatric somatization and SSRDs. RESULTS Recent studies evaluating the impact of race on SSRD care suggest the potential for provider bias in the evaluation and management of this population based on racial differences in diagnostic evaluations. Somatization may present differently based on a patient's race and potential cross-cultural status. Among studies of cisgender patients, there is evidence of provider bias in the assessment of somatic symptoms such that female patients are more likely to be diagnosed with an SSRD than male patients. However, there is little research among youth identifying as LGBTQ. The literature also indicates that low socioeconomic status and associated stressors are linked with the development of SSRDs, although it is unclear whether these factors are subject to bias by providers. CONCLUSIONS While the literature is sparse, there is evidence that sociodemographic factors contribute to differences in diagnosis, evaluation, and management of pediatric SSRDs. These factors, particularly race and sex, may also be subject to provider bias, although further studies are necessary. Provider bias can directly impact patients' perception of care, including feelings of dismissal, and may have downstream influences on symptom manifestation, patient-provider engagement, diagnostic evaluation, and management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saad Shamshair
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | | | - Nasuh Malas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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Stager L, Morriss S, McKibben L, Grant M, Szaflarski JP, Fobian AD. Sense of control, selective attention and cognitive inhibition in pediatric functional seizures: A prospective case-control study. Seizure 2022; 98:79-86. [PMID: 35430472 PMCID: PMC9081274 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To date, laboratory-based experimental behavioral methods have not been used to identify factors associated with pediatric functional seizures (FS), leaving a critical gap for effective treatment development. METHODS Children ages 13-18 with video-EEG-confirmed FS were matched to controls (MCs) based on income, sex, race, and age. A modified Stroop task which included a condition requiring participants to report the ink colors in which seizure symptom words were written (e.g., "shaking" in blue) measured selective attention and cognitive inhibition through response time. The magic and turbulence task assessed sense of control in three conditions (magic, lag, turbulence). Children with FS were asked to report premonitory symptoms predicting FS. RESULTS Participants included 26 children with FS and 26 MCs (Meanage=15.2, 74% female, 59% white). On Stroop, children with FS had a slower reaction time (Mean=1193.83) than MCs (Mean=949.26, p = 0.022) for seizure symptom words. Children with FS had significantly poorer sense of control in the turbulence condition of the magic and turbulence task (Mean=-3.99, SD=8.83) than MCs (Mean=-11.51, SD=7.87; t(20)=-2.61, p =0.017). Children with FS (Mean=-1.80, SD=6.54) also had significantly poorer sense of control in the magic condition than MCs (Mean=-5.57, SD=6.01; p =0.028). Ninety-eight percent of patients endorsed premonitory symptoms. CONCLUSION Compared with MCs, children with FS have (1) poorer selective attention and cognitive inhibition when presented with seizure-related information and (2) lower sense of control (i.e. poorer awareness that their control was manipulated). Premonitory symptoms were common. Sense of control, selective attention, and inhibition may be novel treatment targets for FS intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Stager
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States
| | - Skylar Morriss
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States
| | - Lauren McKibben
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States; Department of Anesthesiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Merida Grant
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Neurobiology and the UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States
| | - Aaron D Fobian
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States.
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Paleari V, Nisticò V, Nardocci N, Canevini MP, Priori A, Gambini O, Zorzi G, Demartini B. Socio-demographic characteristics and psychopathological assessment in a sample of 13 paediatric patients with functional neurological disorders: A preliminary report. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 27:492-503. [PMID: 34743581 DOI: 10.1177/13591045211055084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This observational study aims to characterize, from a socio-demographic and psychopathological perspective, a sample of children with Functional Neurological Disorders (FND). Thirteen paediatric patients (below 18 years old) with FND and their parents completed a battery of anamnestic and neuropsychological tests, assessing socio-demographic status, cognitive level, behavioural and emotional issues, depression, anxiety, alexithymic traits and dissociative symptoms. Five patients presented movement disorders (tremor, myoclonus and gait disorder), three patients psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and five patients sensitivity disturbances (pain, anaesthesia and paraesthesia). Cognitive profile was normal in 11 patients; academic performance was good in nine patients, but three had a diagnosis of Specific Learning Difficulty or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Precipitating events occurred in 11 patients. At the self-report questionnaires, mean scores close to the clinical cut off were documented with respect to affective and somatic problems. At the parent-report questionnaires, clinically significant mean scores were observed in the subscales assessing anxious-depressive symptoms and somatic complaints. We speculate that paediatric FND patients, although acknowledging the relevance of somatic symptoms, have difficulties in recognizing internal emotional states (that, instead, are easily recognized by their parents). The case of one FND patient was described. These preliminary data might help identifying different clinical phenotypes of paediatric FND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Paleari
- Dipartimento di Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,U.O. Neuropsichiatria Infantile Fondazione IRCCS, 9328Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italia
| | - Veronica Nisticò
- Dipartimento di Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,"Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Nardo Nardocci
- U.O. Neuropsichiatria Infantile Fondazione IRCCS, 9328Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italia
| | - Maria Paola Canevini
- U.O. Neuropsichiatria Infantile ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Presidio San Paolo, Milano, Italy
| | - Alberto Priori
- Dipartimento di Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,"Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,III Clinica Neurologica, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Presidio San Paolo, Milano, Italy
| | - Orsola Gambini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,"Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,Unità di Psichiatria 52, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Presidio San Paolo, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanna Zorzi
- U.O. Neuropsichiatria Infantile Fondazione IRCCS, 9328Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italia
| | - Benedetta Demartini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Della Salute, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,"Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.,Unità di Psichiatria 52, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Presidio San Paolo, Milano, Italy
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13
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Elliott L, Carberry C. Treatment of Pediatric Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder: A Review of the State of the Literature. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2022; 41:100952. [PMID: 35450669 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2022.100952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FNSD), or experiencing neurological symptoms incompatible with either a neurological condition or a medical condition, is a common condition presenting in children and adolescents. It is associated with impairment in quality of life for patients and their families and represents a significant burden to the healthcare system. There is currently limited research available regarding effective treatment of pediatric FNSD. Currently, only one RCT exists studying effective treatment of FNSD in children and adolescents, and it is limited to one sub-type of FNSD and only examined cognitive behavioral therapy compared to supportive therapy. Despite this, almost all published research supports good prognosis for pediatric FNSD with all studies reporting improvement either in FNSD symptoms or in the quality of life and functioning of patients with FNSD. The most support was found for the use of cognitive behavioral therapy either as a stand-alone treatment or in the context of interdisciplinary treatment. Future research should focus on increasing the rigor of research, including expanding RCTs to include additional sub-types of FNSD and comparing across various treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Elliott
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Univeristy of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX.
| | - Caroline Carberry
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
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14
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Stager L, Morriss S, Szaflarski JP, Fobian AD. Psychiatric and personality factors in pediatric functional seizures: A prospective case-control study. Seizure 2022; 98:105-112. [PMID: 35462300 PMCID: PMC9081249 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study assessed psychiatric and personality characteristics in relation to pediatric functional seizures (FS). METHODS In a 1:1 prospectively matched-control study design, children with documented FS (confirmed via video EEG; ages 13-18) were matched to controls (MCs) on income, sex, race, and age. Primary outcomes were Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2) and Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory (MACI). Secondary measures included questionnaires assessing trauma, somatization, body awareness and quality of life (QOL). T-tests investigated differences between groups on T-scores. Due to lack of significant outcomes, an experimental analysis was conducted assessing differences in number of clinically elevated BASC-2 and MACI scores between groups. Binary logistic regressions determined the influences of clinically elevated scores on likelihood participants have FS. T-tests assessed differences on secondary measures. RESULTS Participants included 84 children, 42 with FS and 42 MCs (Children with FS: Meanage=15.4, Interquartile Rangeage=3; 73.5% female; 59.5% white). Children with FS had greater parent-reported somatization (t(23)=5.67, p<0.001) on BASC-2, greater somatization on CSSI-24 (t(35)=6.83, p<0.001), and poorer QOL (t(41)=-6.22; p<0.001) than MCs. There were no differences in clinically elevated BASC-2 or MACI scores compared to MCs and clinically elevated scores did not influence likelihood participants have FS. CONCLUSIONS Children with FS had greater somatization and poorer QOL but similar rates of psychiatric symptoms, trauma, and maladaptive personality traits compared to MCs. Psychiatric or personality factors did not predict likelihood of FS. Explanations of pediatric FS should consider novel contributors to FS rather than relying solely on a psychiatric etiology.
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15
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Diagnosis and Initial Treatment of Functional Movement Disorders in Children. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2022; 41:100953. [PMID: 35450668 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2022.100953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Functional movement disorders (FMD) are complex neurobehavioral disorders that can be a significant source of disability for both children and their caregivers. While FMD in the adult population is better characterized, the aim of this paper is to review the pertinent clinical and historical features, diagnostic criteria, and multi-disciplinary management of FMD in the pediatric population. We highlight recent trends in pediatric FMD, including the increase in functional tic-like behaviors that has been observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Treatment Approaches for Functional Neurological Disorders in Children. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2022; 24:77-97. [PMID: 35370394 PMCID: PMC8958484 DOI: 10.1007/s11940-022-00708-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a multi-network brain disorder that encompasses a broad range of neurological symptoms. FND is common in pediatric practice. It places substantial strains on children, families, and health care systems. Treatment begins at assessment, which requires the following: the medical task of making the diagnosis, the interpersonal task of engaging the child and family so that they feel heard and respected, the communication task of communicating and explaining the diagnosis, and the logistical task of organizing treatment.
Recent Findings
Over the past decade, three treatment approaches—Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT), other cognitive-behavioral therapies, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation—have been evaluated in the USA, Canada, and Australia. Of children treated in such programs, 63 − 95% showed full resolution of FND symptoms. The common thread across the programs is their biopsychosocial approach—consideration of biological, psychological, relational, and school-related factors that contribute to the child’s clinical presentation.
Summary
Current research strongly supports a biopsychosocial approach to pediatric FND and provides a foundation for a stepped approach to treatment. Stepped care is initially tailored to the needs of the individual child (and family) based on the pattern and severity of FND presentation. The level of care and type of intervention may then be adjusted to consider the child’s response, over time, to treatment or treatment combinations. Future research is needed to confirm effective treatment targets, to inform the development of stepped care, and to improve methodologies that can assess the efficacy of stepped-care interventions.
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Stager L, Szaflarski JP, Fobian AD. One-year follow-up of treatment outcomes and patient opinions of Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT) for pediatric functional seizures. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2021; 16:100503. [PMID: 34877517 PMCID: PMC8633863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2021.100503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT), a short-term treatment for pediatric functional seizures (FS), has been demonstrated to improve FS in children compared to supportive therapy. However, long-term maintenance of FS-reduction after ReACT is unclear. This study aims to assess seizure frequency 1 year after ReACT and determine patient and parents' opinions of ReACT. Children with functional seizures who previously completed ReACT and their parents were asked to report 30-day FS frequency 1 year after completing ReACT. They also reported if ReACT was helpful. Paired samples t-tests were used to compare FS frequency before ReACT to 1 year after and to compare FS frequency in 30 days after ReACT to 1 year after. Fourteen children (Meanage = 15.43) and their parents participated. Seven-day FS frequency for patients at 1-year follow-up (Mean = 0.15) was significantly lower than 7-day FS frequency pre-ReACT (Mean = 5.62; p = 0.005). No differences were found when comparing FS frequency during 30 days post-ReACT (Mean = 0.29) and in 30 days before 1-year follow-up (Mean = 0.71). This study confirms long-term maintenance of FS-reduction after ReACT and supports the efficacy of targeting FS directly as opposed to mood or stress for reducing FS. Additionally, children and parents believe ReACT is beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Stager
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Psychology, United States
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Neurobiology and the UAB Epilepsy Center, United States
| | - Aaron D Fobian
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, United States
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18
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Perez DL, Aybek S, Popkirov S, Kozlowska K, Stephen CD, Anderson J, Shura R, Ducharme S, Carson A, Hallett M, Nicholson TR, Stone J, LaFrance WC, Voon V. A Review and Expert Opinion on the Neuropsychiatric Assessment of Motor Functional Neurological Disorders. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2021; 33:14-26. [PMID: 32778007 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.19120357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Functional neurological (conversion) disorder (FND) is a prevalent and disabling condition at the intersection of neurology and psychiatry. Advances have been made in elucidating an emerging pathophysiology for motor FND, as well as in identifying evidenced-based physiotherapy and psychotherapy treatments. Despite these gains, important elements of the initial neuropsychiatric assessment of functional movement disorders (FND-movt) and functional limb weakness/paresis (FND-par) have yet to be established. This is an important gap from both diagnostic and treatment planning perspectives. In this article, the authors performed a narrative review to characterize clinically relevant variables across FND-movt and FND-par cohorts, including time course and symptom evolution, precipitating factors, medical and family histories, psychiatric comorbidities, psychosocial factors, physical examination signs, and adjunctive diagnostic tests. Thereafter, the authors propose a preliminary set of clinical content that should be assessed during early-phase patient encounters, in addition to identifying physical signs informing diagnosis and potential use of adjunctive tests for challenging cases. Although clinical history should not be used to make a FND diagnosis, characteristics such as acute onset, precipitating events (e.g., injury and surgery), and a waxing and waning course (including spontaneous remissions) are commonly reported. Active psychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety) and ongoing psychosocial stressors also warrant evaluation. Positive physical examination signs (e.g., Hoover's sign and tremor entrainment) are key findings, as one of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. The neuropsychiatric assessment proposed emphasizes diagnosing FND by using "rule-in" physical signs while also considering psychiatric and psychosocial factors to aid in the development of a patient-centered treatment plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Perez
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Selma Aybek
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Stoyan Popkirov
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Kasia Kozlowska
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Christopher D Stephen
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Jordan Anderson
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Robert Shura
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Simon Ducharme
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Alan Carson
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Mark Hallett
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Timothy R Nicholson
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Jon Stone
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
| | - Valerie Voon
- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
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- Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Units, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Perez); Department of Neurology, Functional Neurological Disorders Clinic, University Hospital Inselspital and Clinical Neurosciences, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland (Aybek); Department of Neurology, University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Germany (Popkirov); Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales, Australia (Kozlowska); Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia (Kozlowska); Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Stephen); Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. (Anderson, LaFrance); VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service Line, Salisbury Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, N.C. (Shura); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C. (Shura); McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal (Ducharme); Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Ducharme); Center for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom (Carson, Stone); Human Motor Control Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, Bethesda, Md. (Hallett); Section of Cognitive Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Nicholson); Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Voon)
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A single-center series of 482 patients with functional motor disorders. J Psychosom Res 2021; 148:110565. [PMID: 34252796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2021.110565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Functional motor disorders (FMD) are common and disabling. They are known to predominantly affect women and young to middle-aged patients, although they also occur during childhood or in the elderly. Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with FMD are poorly known, since large series of consecutive patients are scarce. METHODS In a chart review study, we retrospectively abstracted data from consecutive FMD patients who were referred to the Neurophysiology Department of the Salpêtrière University Hospital between 2008 and 2016 for treatment with repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation. RESULTS 482 patients were included. Most patients were women (73.7%). Median age at symptoms onset was 35.5 years and symptoms were mostly characterized by acute (47.3%) or subacute (46%) onset. Only 23% of patients were active workers, while 58.3% were unemployed because of FMD. Half of the patients had functional motor weakness (n = 241) whereas the other half had movement disorders (n = 241), mainly with tremor (21.1%) or dystonia (20.5%). Among all patients, 66.4% had psychiatric comorbidity and 82.6% reported a history of trauma in the 6 months before symptoms onset. No difference was found in age or gender according to clinical phenotypes. CONCLUSION This large series will contribute to better characterize FMDs.
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Fang Z, Li Y, Xie L, Cheng M, Ma J, Li T, Li X, Jiang L. Characteristics and outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders in western China: a retrospective study. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:31. [PMID: 33435924 PMCID: PMC7802240 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03045-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dissociative (conversion) disorder in children is a complex biopsychosocial disorder with high rates of medical and psychiatric comorbidities. We sought to identify the characteristics and outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders in western China. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 66 children admitted with dissociative (conversion) disorders from January 2017 to July 2019, and analyzed their clinical characteristics, socio-cultural environmental variables, and personality and psychiatric/psychological characteristics. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the variables associated with clinical efficacy. RESULTS Of these 66 patients, 38 (57.6%) were male and 28 (42.4%) were female, 46 (69.7%) had an antecedent stressor, 30 (45.5%) were left-behind adolescents, and 16 (24.2%) were from single-parent families. In addition, 30 patients (45.5%) were not close to their parents, 38 patients (59.4%) had an introverted personality, and 34 (53.1%) had unstable emotions. Thirteen families (19.7%) were uncooperative with the treatment. Patients who had cormorbid anxiety or depression exhibited significantly lower cognitive ability (P < 0.01). Logistic regression found that better treatment outcomes were positively associated with having a close relationship with parents, parental cooperation with treatment, and having a father with a lower level of education (i.e., less than junior college or higher). CONCLUSIONS The characteristics and outcomes of children with dissociative (conversion) disorders are related to socio-cultural environmental variables and psychiatric/psychological factors. Timely recognition and effective treatment of dissociative (conversion) disorders are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixu Fang
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuhang Li
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Lingling Xie
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Cheng
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiannan Ma
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Tingsong Li
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiujuan Li
- grid.488412.3Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014 China ,grid.419897.a0000 0004 0369 313XMinistry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.488412.3National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014 China ,grid.507984.7China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China ,grid.488412.3Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 136, Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing City, 400014, China. .,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Chongqing, 400014, China. .,China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing, China. .,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Chongqing, China.
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Chouksey A, Pandey S. Functional Movement Disorders in Children. Front Neurol 2020; 11:570151. [PMID: 33281706 PMCID: PMC7688912 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.570151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional movement disorders (FMDs) are not uncommon in children. The age at onset may have a bearing on the phenomenological pattern of abnormal movement, risk factors, and response to different treatment modalities in this age group. FMDs in children resemble their adult counterparts in terms of gender preponderance, but risk factors are quite different, and often influenced by cultural and demographic background. FMDs contribute to a significant proportion of acute pediatric movement disorder patients seen in emergency settings, ranging from 4.3 to 23% in different case series. The most common movement phenomenologies observed in pediatric FMDs patients are tremor, dystonia, gait disturbances, and functional tics. Various social, physical, and familial precipitating factors have been described. Common social risk factors include divorce of parents, sexual abuse, bullying at school, examination pressure, or other education-related issues, death of a close friend, relative, or family members. Physical trauma like minor head injury, immunization, tooth extraction, and tonsillectomy are also known to precipitate FMDs. The response to treatment appears to be better among pediatric patients. We aim to review FMDs in children to better understand the different aspects of their frequency, clinical features, precipitating factors, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Chouksey
- Department of Neurology, Govind Ballabh Pant Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjay Pandey
- Department of Neurology, Govind Ballabh Pant Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, New Delhi, India
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Winarizal AS, Horvath A, Sawyer SM. Measuring functional recovery in somatic symptom and related disorders: a scoping review. Arch Dis Child 2020; 105:1086-1092. [PMID: 32398323 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2020-318955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Somatic symptom and related disorders (SSRDs) are prevalent, heterogenous conditions that have the potential to profoundly affect normative function in children and adolescents. Yet there is little understanding of pathways to recovery. This study aimed to systematically scope how functional recovery has been measured in children and adolescents with SSRD . DESIGN Scoping review of primary studies. METHOD Medline (Ovid) and PsychInfo were systematically searched for publications from January 1998 to April 2019. Primary studies in English that reported functional outcomes of children and adolescents with SSRD were included. Case reports and population studies were excluded. Within the tools and clinician notes, the core domains of functional outcome were identified. RESULTS Sixteen studies were identified that used 11 different functional outcome tools. The domains assessed within these functional outcome tools, together with the domains noted by clinicians, included physical and mental health symptoms, as well as school attendance and academic outcomes, recreational participation, impact on family and service utilisation. There was no evidence of a preferred outcome measure as only two of the tools were used in more than one study. CONCLUSIONS The variability of tools and domains used to measure functional recovery in children and adolescents with SSRD suggests lack of conceptual agreement about what constitutes functional recovery. Continued focus on symptom measurement or mental health comorbidities risks limiting research to single types of disorder (eg, functional neurological disability) or interventions, which threatens a much needed wider research agenda around appropriate treatment, including of complex and persistent disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afiah Salsabila Winarizal
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Anita Horvath
- Department of Medical Education, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan M Sawyer
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health Sciences, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia .,Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Adolescent Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Functional neurological movements in children: Management with a psychological approach. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2020; 28:101-109. [PMID: 32800685 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM To develop a cognitive behavioural treatment (CBT) approach that included novel attention training components to support symptom management in children with a primary diagnosis of Functional Movement Disorder (FMD). METHOD Eighteen children (9 male and 9 female) with a mean age of 13 years (sd = 2.46, range 10-18 years) were assessed and completed CBT with novel attention training components. Treatment outcomes were measured using the Child Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) which was administered at baseline and post-treatment. RESULTS Scores on the CGAS improved significantly post-treatment (p < 0.001) with all participants showing significant change in functioning on the basis of the Reliable Change Index (RCI), with clinically significant change across classification boundaries. INTERPRETATION This case series provides support for the use of CBT with attention training components for the management of FMD. Larger trials are necessary to identify which individual treatment components are most effective and to better understand and quantify response to treatment. Future clinical treatment studies would benefit from the inclusion of objective measures of interoception and attentional focus.
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Moenter A. Being in touch: The potential benefits and the use of attuned touch in psychotherapy for functional neurological symptoms (FNS). EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TRAUMA & DISSOCIATION 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejtd.2020.100161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Fobian AD, Long DM, Szaflarski JP. Retraining and control therapy for pediatric psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2020; 7:1410-1419. [PMID: 32748572 PMCID: PMC7448150 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Our aim was to conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial of a novel cognitive behaviorally based intervention for pediatric PNES called Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT). Methods Participants were randomized to receive either eight sessions of ReACT or supportive therapy, and participants completed follow‐up visits at 7‐ and 60‐days posttreatment. The primary outcome measure was PNES frequency at 7‐days posttreatment. Eligibility criteria included children with video‐EEG confirmed PNES and participant/parent or guardian willingness to participate in treatment. Exclusion criteria included substance use, psychosis, and severe intellectual disability. Forty‐two patients were assessed for eligibility and 32 were randomized. ReACT aimed to retrain classically conditioned, involuntary PNES by targeting catastrophic symptom expectations and a low sense of control over symptoms using principles of habit reversal. Supportive therapy was based on the assumption that relief from stress or problems can be achieved by discussion with a therapist. Results Twenty‐nine participants (Mage = 15.1 years, SDage = 2.5; 72.2% female; 57.1% Caucasian, 28.6% African American) completed 7‐days postprocedures. For PNES frequency, the Wilcoxon Rank Sum test statistic was 273.5 yielding a normal approximation of Z = 4.725 (P < 0.0001), indicating a significant improvement in PNES frequency for ReACT at 7‐days posttreatment compared to supportive therapy. Participants with PNES in the 7‐days posttreatment were removed from the study for additional treatment, resulting in no 60‐day follow‐up data for supportive therapy. Interpretation ReACT resulted in significantly greater PNES reduction than supportive therapy, with 100% of patients experiencing no PNES in 7 days after ReACT. Additionally, 82% remained PNES‐free for 60 days after ReACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D Fobian
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Dustin M Long
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Neurobiology, The UAB Epilepsy Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama
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Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder in Children and Adolescents within Medical Settings. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2020; 28:90-101. [DOI: 10.1007/s10880-020-09736-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Joos A, Halmer R, Leiprecht N, Schörner K, Lahmann C, Blahak C. [Functional neurological disorders: update and example of integrated inpatient treatment including mirror therapy]. DER NERVENARZT 2020; 91:252-256. [PMID: 31690969 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-019-00827-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Joos
- Zentrum für Psychische Erkrankungen, Klinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Deutschland.
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland.
| | - R Halmer
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland
| | - N Leiprecht
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland
| | - K Schörner
- Psychotherapeutische Neurologie, Kliniken Schmieder, Gailingen, Deutschland
| | - C Lahmann
- Zentrum für Psychische Erkrankungen, Klinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Deutschland
| | - C Blahak
- Klinik für Neurologie und Neurogeriatrie, Ortenau-Klinikum Lahr-Ettenheim, Lahr, Deutschland
- Neurologische Klinik, UniversitätsMedizin Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Mannheim, Deutschland
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Raper J, Currigan V, Fothergill S, Stone J, Forsyth RJ. Long-term outcomes of functional neurological disorder in children. Arch Dis Child 2019; 104:1155-1160. [PMID: 31326916 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2018-316519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish the incidence and long-term outcomes (up to 21 years) of children presenting to a University hospital paediatric neurology service with symptoms due to functional neurological disorder (FND) with particular reference to occurrence of FND or similar symptoms in adulthood. METHODS Retrospective chart review to determine characteristics of the original paediatric FND presentation plus record-linkage with providers of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Chart review of adult medical records for documentation of functional symptoms in adulthood. RESULTS 124 individuals (56% female) met entry criteria. The most common presentations were seizures (18%), sensory loss (18%) and motor symptoms (16%). Frequency gradually increased with age of onset with an incidence in paediatric neurological services of 6 per 100 000 children under 16. In up to 21 years' follow-up (median 8.3 years), 114/124 attained their 16th birthdays by the study census date and were thus eligible for inclusion in an analysis of symptom persistence/recurrence in adulthood. 26/114 (23%) showed evidence of FND in adulthood of sufficient significance to be recorded in medical records. CONCLUSION Paediatric FND is commoner than previous estimates. Even in this selected population of children reaching specialist paediatric neurology services, a high long-term remission rate is observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Raper
- Paediatric Neurology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Victoria Currigan
- Paediatric Neurology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sarah Fothergill
- Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jon Stone
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh Division of Health Sciences, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Rob J Forsyth
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Samuels A, Tuvia T, Patterson D, Briklin O, Shaffer S, Walker A. Characteristics of Conversion Disorder in an Urban Academic Children's Medical Center. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2019; 58:1250-1254. [PMID: 31267759 DOI: 10.1177/0009922819857541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Literature on childhood conversion disorder (CD) is sparse and is mostly limited to the outpatient population. Method. Our study retrospectively examines the characteristics of childhood CD in 42 children and adolescents seen by the psychiatric consultation-liaison service in an urban academic medical center with a large minority population. Results. CD accounted for 11% of our consultations. The majority of patients were female adolescents, but in the younger cohort, the male-to-female ratio equalized. Other somatic symptoms and additional psychiatric diagnoses were common, anxiety disorders in particular. Antecedent stressors were identified in 95% of patients, most commonly related to family stressors. Recent or remote history of abuse was rare. Neurological presentations were complex, with almost half of the patients presenting with multiple distinct neurological symptoms. Hyperkinetic symptoms were more common than hypokinetic symptoms, and paroxysmal symptoms were more common than non-paroxysmal. No distress (la belle indifference) was found in only 25% of patients and about half of patients had no socio-academic impairment. High resource utilization was noted based on multiple specialist consultants, diagnostic studies, and length of stay. Conclusion. Much of our data confirms previous findings and contributes to what is becoming a more robust characterization of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayol Samuels
- Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Tali Tuvia
- Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | | - Olga Briklin
- Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Scott Shaffer
- Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Audrey Walker
- Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
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30
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Watson C, Sivaswamy L, Agarwal R, Du W, Agarwal R. Functional Neurologic Symptom Disorder in Children: Clinical Features, Diagnostic Investigations, and Outcomes at a Tertiary Care Children's Hospital. J Child Neurol 2019; 34:325-331. [PMID: 30819032 DOI: 10.1177/0883073819830193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the presenting symptoms and short-term outcomes of children diagnosed with functional neurologic symptom disorder and to compare the demographic and clinical characteristics of children who received neurodiagnostic testing to those who did not. STUDY DESIGN Single center, retrospective review of 222 children who presented to the emergency department of a children's hospital, and diagnosed with functional neurologic symptom disorder, between 2010 and 2015. RESULTS Out of 222 visits (females = 156, African Americans = 130, mean age = 13.9 years), neurodiagnostic tests were performed in 102/222 (46%) visits. The most commonly performed investigations were magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain (n = 37) and electroencephalogram (EEG) (n = 56) and were noted to be unremarkable in all instances. Neurodiagnostic tests were more likely to be performed in patients who (1) were non-African American (54% vs 40%; P = .03), (2) presented with new-onset symptoms (55% vs 31%; P < .01), (3) underwent hospitalization (61% vs 17%; P < .01), and (4) were evaluated by a neurologist (59% vs 9%; P < .01) or a psychiatrist (58% vs 28%; P < .01). Common clinical presentations included seizurelike or strokelike symptoms. Short-term follow-up was possible in 20%, with an alternate diagnosis of syncope, noted in only 1 child. CONCLUSIONS Most children who presented with a functional neurologic symptom disorder in our study were noted to have seizurelike or strokelike presentations and were adolescent females. Caucasians were more likely to undergo neurodiagnostic investigations. Radiologic and neurophysiological tests were more commonly performed when neurology and psychiatry consultations were sought. Such investigations had low diagnostic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Watson
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,2 Divisions of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,3 Divisions of Neurology, Carman and Ann Adams Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Lalitha Sivaswamy
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,2 Divisions of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,3 Divisions of Neurology, Carman and Ann Adams Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Roshani Agarwal
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,4 Divisions of Hospital Medicine, Carman and Ann Adams Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Wei Du
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Rajkumar Agarwal
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,2 Divisions of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,3 Divisions of Neurology, Carman and Ann Adams Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI, USA
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31
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Agarwal HS. Conversion Disorder Manifesting as Functional Visual Loss. J Emerg Med 2019; 57:94-96. [PMID: 31003815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with conversion disorder experience neurological symptoms without a definable organic cause. Clinical presentation of conversion disorders is uncommon in the emergency department (ED). CASE REPORT An 11-year-old previously healthy girl presented to the ED for management of lobar pneumonia. She developed acute visual loss subsequent to accidental placement of an intra-arterial cannula in her arm. Clinical assessments by the emergency physician, neurology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry services, and negative neuroimaging studies established the diagnosis of functional visual loss as a manifestation of conversion disorder. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Conversion disorder symptoms are often without any specific markers and do not fit standard clinical guidelines. A comprehensive and step-wise evaluation of unusual clinical presentation by multiple specialties and ancillary test results should be considered to rule out organic causes and establish the diagnosis of conversion disorder, as seen in our patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant S Agarwal
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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32
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Fobian AD, Elliott L. A review of functional neurological symptom disorder etiology and the integrated etiological summary model. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2019; 44:8-18. [PMID: 30565902 PMCID: PMC6306282 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.170190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD) is characterized by neurological symptoms that are unexplained by other traditional neurological or medical conditions. Both physicians and patients have limited understanding of FNSD, which is often explained as a physical manifestation of psychological distress. Recently, diagnostic criteria have shifted from requiring a preceding stressor to relying on positive symptoms. Given this shift, we have provided a review of the etiology of FNSD. Predisposing factors include trauma or psychiatric symptoms, somatic symptoms, illness exposure, symptom monitoring and neurobiological factors. Neurobiological research has indicated that patients with FNSD have a decreased sense of agency and abnormal attentional focus on the affected area, both of which are modulated by beliefs and expectations about illness. Sick role and secondary gain may reinforce and maintain FNSD. The integrated etiological summary model combines research from various fields and other recent etiological models to represent the current understanding of FNSD etiology. It discusses a potential causal mechanism and informs future research and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D. Fobian
- From the Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL (Fobian); and the Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL (Elliott)
| | - Lindsey Elliott
- From the Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL (Fobian); and the Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL (Elliott)
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33
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O'Leary D. Why Bioethics Should Be Concerned With Medically Unexplained Symptoms. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2018; 18:6-15. [PMID: 29697324 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2018.1445312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Biomedical diagnostic science is a great deal less successful than we've been willing to acknowledge in bioethics, and this fact has far-reaching ethical implications. In this article I consider the surprising prevalence of medically unexplained symptoms, and the term's ambiguous meaning. Then I frame central questions that remain answered in this context with respect to informed consent, autonomy, and truth-telling. Finally, I show that while considerable attention in this area is given to making sure not to provide biological care to patients without a need, comparatively little is given to the competing, ethically central task of making sure never to obstruct access to biological care for those with diagnostically confusing biological conditions. I suggest this problem arises from confusion about the philosophical value of vagueness when it comes to the line between biological and psychosocial needs.
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34
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DeLaroche AM, Sivaswamy L, Farooqi A, Kannikeswaran N. Pediatric Stroke and Its Mimics: Limitations of a Pediatric Stroke Clinical Pathway. Pediatr Neurol 2018; 80:35-41. [PMID: 29429783 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute stroke protocols improve delivery of care but it is unclear whether these resource intensive protocols are able to differentiate stroke from mimics in children. The aim of this study is to describe our institution's experience with stroke mimics identified through our pediatric stroke clinical pathway (PSCP). METHODS The PSCP was implemented in our level 1 pediatric emergency department in June 2014 for children aged one month to 18 years. For patients managed using the PSCP from June 2014 to December 2016, demographic and clinical data were compared for patients diagnosed with stroke or a stroke mimic. RESULTS A total of 59 children were evaluated with the PSCP. Fourteen children were identified as having a stroke and 45 children had stroke mimics. The most common stroke mimics were functional neurological disorders (20.0%), transient neurological deficits (17.8%), migraine (15.6%), and seizure (11.1%). Patient demographics and time to neuroimaging did not differ between patients with and without stroke. Vomiting was commonly reported by patients with stroke (odds ratio: 4.00, 95% confidence interval: 1.12 to 14.35), whereas weakness was not (odds ratio: 0.7, 95% confidence interval: 0.07 to 0.90), but the physical examination did not differ between patients with and without stroke. CONCLUSIONS The PSCP ensures timely evaluation of patients presenting with neurological deficits but fails to reliably differentiate between patients with stroke and patients with stroke mimics. Further multicentered studies are needed to develop a "stroke screen" that reliably distinguishes pediatric stroke from its mimics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M DeLaroche
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, Michigan.
| | - Lalitha Sivaswamy
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Ahmad Farooqi
- School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Nirupama Kannikeswaran
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, Michigan
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35
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Weber P, Erlacher R. Dissociative sensibility disorders - A retrospective case series and systematic literature review. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2018; 22:27-38. [PMID: 28899586 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2017.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Dissociative disorders present a huge challenge in clinical settings. In contrast to other dissociative symptoms, dissociative sensibility disorders are rarely focused on. OBJECTIVE To identify the clinical characteristics and outcomes of dissociative sensibility disorders in children and adolescents, and to review the use of diagnostic procedures. DATA SOURCES For the review, a literature search used Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and PubPsych (to 02/2015) and the reference lists of the studies identified. STUDY SELECTION Screening of titles and abstracts; full-text assessment by two reviewers. DATA SELECTION The original case series was identified by using the local data register. DATA EXTRACTION Two reviewers independently reviewed the data and, if they agreed on the relevance, extracted the data. In the original case series, data were extracted retrospectively from the records. RESULTS Sixteen studies and seven case reports were identified, including 931 cases with dissociative disorders. In 210 cases the patient suffered either from a single sensibility disorder or predominantly from sensibility disorders. We identified thirteen further cases in our cohort. In both groups there was female predominance; the mean age of manifestation was early adolescence. The timing of admissions was variable. In approximately 50% of cases a premorbid stressful life event could be identified. Over 75% of cases had a good prognosis with complete resolution. LIMITATIONS Retrospective character of our own data collection, partially missing differentiation between the subgroups of dissociative disorders in the reviewed studies. CONCLUSIONS There is no uniform procedure for diagnostic work-up. The overall short-term prognosis is good.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Weber
- University of Basel, University Children's Hospital Basel, Division of Neuropediatrics and Developmental Medicine, Switzerland.
| | - Rahel Erlacher
- University of Basel, University Children's Hospital Basel, Division of Neuropediatrics and Developmental Medicine, Switzerland
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Abstract
Functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD) is characterized by motor or sensory impairments inconsistent with recognized neurologic conditions. Usually emerging in adolescence, somatic symptoms remain challenging for the physician to assess and treat. Also termed "conversion disorder," FNSD has been recently reconceptualized with greater diagnostic emphasis on positive neurologic findings while eliminating the requirement for a precipitating stressor. This has broadened the initial treatment emphasis from mandating psychotherapeutic engagement to a more collaborative model that requires open communication of neurologic findings and strives to align with families' perspectives. Severe disorders necessitate a unified treatment approach from several clinical specialties, including behavioral approaches, and pediatricians may play a central role in the management of youth with FNSD as well as their families. Treatment engagement can be facilitated by validating the distress of the patient, providing resources to address diagnostic questions and parental concerns, and implementing shared goals toward rapid return to self-efficacy. [Pediatr Ann. 2016;45(10):e356-e361.].
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Mackay MT, Monagle P, Babl FE. Brain attacks and stroke in children. J Paediatr Child Health 2016; 52:158-63. [PMID: 27062619 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.13086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Emergency physicians are often the first point of contact in children presenting with acute neurological disorders. Differentiating serious disorders, such as stroke, from benign disorders, such as migraine, can be challenging. Clinical assessment influences decision-making, in particular the need for emergent neuroimaging to confirm diagnosis. This review describes the spectrum of disorders causing 'brain attack' symptoms, or acute onset focal neurological dysfunction, with particular emphasis on childhood stroke, because early recognition is essential to improve access to thrombolytic treatments, which have improved outcomes in adults. Clues to diagnosis of specific conditions are discussed. Symptoms and signs, which discriminate stroke from mimics, are described, highlighting differences to adults. Haemorrhagic and ischaemic stroke have different presenting features, which influence choice of the most appropriate imaging modality to maximise diagnostic accuracy. Improvements in the care of children with brain attacks require coordinated approaches and system improvements similar to those developed in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark T Mackay
- Department of Neurology.,Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Florey Institute of Neurosciences and Mental Health.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Monagle
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Franz E Babl
- Emergency Department, Royal Children's Hospital.,Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
The prognosis of functional (psychogenic) neurologic disorders is important in being able to help answer patients' and carers' questions, determine whether treatment is worthwhile, and to find out which factors predict outcome. We reviewed data on prognosis of functional neurologic disorders from two systematic reviews on functional motor disorders and dissociative (nonepileptic) seizures as well as additional studies on functional visual and sensory symptoms. Methodologic problems include heterogeneity in studied samples and outcome measures, diagnostic suspicion and referral bias, small size and retrospective design of available studies, possible treatments during follow-up, and literature review bias. With these caveats, the prognosis of functional neurologic disorders does appear to be generally unfavorable. In most studies, functional motor symptoms and psychogenic nonepileptic attacks remain the same or are worse in the majority of patients at follow-up. Measures of quality of life and working status were often poor at follow-up. Frequency of misdiagnosis at follow-up was as low as other neurologic and psychiatric disorders. Long duration of symptoms was the most distinct negative predictor. Early diagnosis and young age seem to predict good outcome. Emotional disorders and personality disorders were inconsistent predictors. Litigation and state benefits were found to be negative predictors in some studies, but others found they did not influence outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Gelauff
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J Stone
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Guerriero RM, Pier DB, de Gusmão CM, Bernson-Leung ME, Maski KP, Urion DK, Waugh JL. Increased pediatric functional neurological symptom disorders after the Boston marathon bombings: a case series. Pediatr Neurol 2014; 51:619-23. [PMID: 25152961 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2014.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Revised: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional neurological symptom disorders are frequently the basis for acute neurological consultation. In children, they are often precipitated by high-frequency everyday stressors. The extent to which a severe traumatic experience may also precipitate functional neurological abnormalities is unknown. METHODS For the 2-week period after the Boston Marathon bombings, we prospectively collected data on patients whose presentation suggested a functional neurological symptom disorder. We assessed clinical and demographic variables, duration of symptoms, extent of educational impact, and degree of connection to the Marathon bombing. We contacted all patients at 6 months after presentation to determine the outcome and accuracy of the diagnosis. RESULTS In a parallel study, we reported a baseline of 2.6 functional neurological presentations per week in our emergency room. In the week after the Marathon bombings, this frequency tripled. Ninety-one percent of presentations were delayed by 1 week, with onset around the first school day after a city-wide lockdown. Seventy-three percent had a history of a prior psychiatric diagnosis. At the 6 months follow-up, no functional neurological symptom disorder diagnoses were overturned and no new organic diagnosis was made. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric functional neurological symptom disorder may be precipitated by both casual and high-intensity stressors. The 3.4-fold increase in incidence after the Boston Marathon bombings and city-wide lockdown demonstrates the marked effect that a community-wide tragedy can have on the mental health of children. Care providers must be aware of functional neurological symptom disorders after stressful community events in vulnerable patient populations, particularly those with prior psychiatric diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Réjean M Guerriero
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Danielle B Pier
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Kiran P Maski
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David K Urion
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeff L Waugh
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Pediatric Movement Disorders Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Massachusetts.
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