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Gaskell C, Power N, Novakova B, Simmonds-Buckley M, Kerr WT, Reuber M, Kellett S, Rawlings GH. A meta-analytic evaluation of the effectiveness and durability of psychotherapy for adults presenting with functional dissociative seizures. Seizure 2024; 119:98-109. [PMID: 38824867 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2024.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological interventions are the most recommended treatment for functional/dissociative seizures (FDS); however, there is ongoing uncertainty about their effectiveness on seizure outcomes. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesises the available data. In February 2023, we completed a systematic search of four electronic databases. We described the range of seizure-related outcomes captured, used meta-analytic methods to analyse data collected during treatment and follow-up; and explored sources of heterogeneity between outcomes. RESULTS Overall, 44 relevant studies were identified involving 1,300 patients. Most were categorised as being at high (39.5 %) or medium (41.9 %) risk of bias. Seizure frequency was examined in all but one study; seizure intensity, severity or bothersomeness in ten; and seizure duration and cluster in one study each. Meta-analyses could be performed on seizure freedom and seizure reduction. A pooled estimate for seizure freedom at the end of treatment was 40 %, while for follow-up it was 36 %. Pooled rates for ≥50 % improvement in seizure frequency were 66 % and 75 %. None of the included moderator variables for seizure freedom were significant. At the group level, seizure frequency improved during the treatment phase with a moderate pooled effect size (d = 0.53). FDS frequency reduced by a median of 6.5 seizures per month. There was also evidence of improvement of the other (non-frequency) seizure-related measures with psychological therapy, but data were insufficient for meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study complement a previous meta-analysis describing psychological treatment-associated improvements in non-seizure-related outcomes. Further research on the most appropriate FDS-severity measure is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Gaskell
- Clinical and Applied Psychology Unit, University of Sheffield, UK; Department of Neuropsychology, North Staffordshire Combined NHS Foundation Trust, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.
| | - Niall Power
- South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Barbora Novakova
- Health and Wellbeing Service, NHS Sheffield Talking Therapies, Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Melanie Simmonds-Buckley
- Clinical and Applied Psychology Unit, University of Sheffield, UK; Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Wesley T Kerr
- Departments of Neurology & Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit, University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, S10 2JF Sheffield, UK
| | - Stephen Kellett
- Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Gregg H Rawlings
- Clinical and Applied Psychology Unit, University of Sheffield, UK
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Lopez MR, LaFrance WC. Treatment of Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2022; 22:467-474. [PMID: 35674871 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-022-01209-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are the most common Functional Neurological Disorder/Conversion Disorder subtype. Significant advances have been made related to diagnosis, neurobiology, and treatment. In this review, we summarize updates in diagnosis and management over the past 3 years. RECENT FINDINGS Although evidence is mixed for the treatment of PNES, psychotherapeutic modalities remain a powerful instrument to empower patients and reduce seizures. A multidisciplinary, holistic approach is beneficial. While seizure freedom in all patients may not be the achieved endpoint in this chronic, paroxysmal disorder, quality of life can be improved with treatment. Additional treatment modalities and further research are needed for patients who are refractory to current treatment. Evidence-based therapies exist for PNES, and recent findings represent an increased understanding of the clinical and neurophysiologic aspects of PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Raquel Lopez
- University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th St., Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- VA Miami Health Care System, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - W Curt LaFrance
- Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- VA Providence Health Care System, Providence, RI, USA
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Butler M, Seynaeve M, Bradley-Westguard A, Bao J, Crawshaw A, Pick S, Edwards M, Nicholson T, Rucker J. Views on Using Psychoactive Substances to Self-Manage Functional Neurological Disorder: Online Patient Survey Results. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 35:77-85. [PMID: 35578800 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.21080213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Functional neurological disorder (FND) causes a high burden of disability and distress. Although it is a common disorder, there is a pressing need for improved access to evidence-based treatments. With difficulties in finding effective treatment, some people with FND may seek alternative means of symptom relief, such as legal and illicit psychoactive substances, although the prevalence and nature of such self-management strategies are currently unclear. Additionally, psychoactive substances may represent novel treatment research opportunities, particularly for those with suboptimal improvement. The investigators examined the use of self-management techniques, as well as perspectives on novel therapies, in this patient population. Methods: An online survey was created to assess self-management strategies and views on novel treatments for FND, including psychedelic therapy. The survey was accessible for 1 month, and respondents were recruited internationally through social media and patient groups. A total of 1,048 respondents from 16 countries completed the survey. Results: Almost half (46%) of 980 respondents reported having tried legal psychoactive substances for the management of their FND symptoms and, on average, nicotine, alcohol, and cannabidiol were reported as modestly effective. Additionally, 15% of respondents reported having used illicit substances, mostly cannabis, to manage FND, with the majority reporting moderate effectiveness and experiencing no or minimal physical (90%) and psychological (95%) sequelae. Many respondents (46%) reported that they would be willing to try medically supervised psychedelic therapy (with 19% of respondents ambivalent) if it were found to be safe and effective. Conclusions: Many people with FND seek alternative means of symptom management outside usual medical care, including legal and illicit psychoactive substances. Further research exploring novel treatment options, such as psychedelics, in FND may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Butler
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - Mathieu Seynaeve
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - Abigail Bradley-Westguard
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - Jianan Bao
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - Ania Crawshaw
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - Susannah Pick
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - Mark Edwards
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - Timothy Nicholson
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
| | - James Rucker
- Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Butler, Pick, Nicholson); Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London (Seynaeve, Bao, Rucker); independent patient researcher (Bradley-Westguard); National Health Service Foundation Trust (Crawshaw) and Department of Neurology (Edwards), St. George's University Hospitals, London; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Sciences, St. George's University of London (Crawshaw, Edwards); and Sobell Department of Motor Neurosciences and Movement Disorders, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London (Edwards)
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Scévola L, Wolfzun C, Sarudiansky M, Pico MMA, Ponieman M, Stivala EG, Korman G, Kochen S, D'Alessio L. Psychiatric disorders, depression and quality of life in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and drug resistant epilepsy living in Argentina. Seizure 2021; 92:174-181. [PMID: 34536854 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Psychiatric disorders are frequently found in both patients with PNES and DRE, making the differential diagnosis even more complex. The aim of this study was to analyze and compare psychiatric aspects and the quality of life in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and drug resistant epilepsy (DRE). METHODS Patients admitted to video-electroencephalograpy (VEEG) unit with confirmed PNES and DRE were included. Demographical characteristics, psychiatric diagnosis according to SCID I and II of DSM IV, pharmacological treatment, general functioning measured with GAF (Global assessment of functionality), quality of life (QoL) using QlesQSF (Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form) and depression severity using BDI II (Beck depression inventory), were compared between the groups. Non-parametric tests, chi square test, and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS 148 patients consecutively admitted to VEEG were included (DRE n = 97; PNES n = 51). Somatization disorder (RR: 13.02, 95% CI: 1.23-137.39, p = 0.03) and a history of trauma (RR: 8.66, 95% CI: 3.21-23.31, p = 0.001) were associated with PNES. The QlesQ score and the GAF score were lower with a higher prevalence of suicide attempts in the PNES group (p < 0.01). A negative correlation was observed between the severity of depression and the quality of life (DRE r = - 0.28, p = 0.013; PNES r = - 0.59, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Higher psychiatric comorbidity with poorer QoL were found in PNES patients compared to DRE. However, depression comorbidity negatively affected the QoL in both groups. Future studies based on illness perception will be orientated to complete this analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Scévola
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, IBCN (Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina (CONICET), Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Camila Wolfzun
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Psicología-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Sarudiansky
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Psicología-CONICET, Argentina
| | - María Marta Areco Pico
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Psicología-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Micaela Ponieman
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Psicología-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Ernesto Gonzalez Stivala
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, IBCN (Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina (CONICET), Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital El Cruce, Estudios en Neurociencias y Sistemas Complejos (ENyS)-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Guido Korman
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Psicología-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Silvia Kochen
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital El Cruce, Estudios en Neurociencias y Sistemas Complejos (ENyS)-CONICET, Argentina
| | - Luciana D'Alessio
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, IBCN (Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina (CONICET), Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Facultad de Medicina, Centro de Epilepsia del Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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5
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Butler M, Shipston-Sharman O, Seynaeve M, Bao J, Pick S, Bradley-Westguard A, Ilola E, Mildon B, Golder D, Rucker J, Stone J, Nicholson T. International online survey of 1048 individuals with functional neurological disorder. Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:3591-3602. [PMID: 34245646 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Functional neurological disorder (FND) is common, and symptoms can be severe. There have been no international large-scale studies of patient experiences of FND. METHODS A patient questionnaire was created to assess FND patient characteristics, symptom comorbidities and illness perceptions. Respondents were recruited internationally through an open access questionnaire via social media and patient groups over a month-long period. RESULTS In total, 1048 respondents from 16 countries participated. Mean age was 42 years (86% female). Median FND symptom duration was 5 years, and median time from first symptom to diagnosis was 2 years. Mean number of current symptoms (core FND and associated) was 9.9. Many respondents had associated symptoms, for example fatigue (93%), memory difficulties (80%) and headache (70%). Self-reported psychiatric comorbidities were relatively common (depression, 43%; anxiety, 51%; panic, 20%; and post-traumatic stress disorder, 22%). Most respondents reported that FND had multiple causes, including physical and psychological. CONCLUSIONS This large survey adds further evidence that people with FND typically have high levels of multiple symptom comorbidity with resultant distress. It also supports the notion that associated physical symptoms are of particular clinical significance in FND patients. Dualistic ideas of FND were not supported by respondents, who generally preferred to conceptualize the disorder as one at the interface of mind and brain. The need for a broad approach to this poorly served patient group is highlighted. Potential selection and response biases due to distribution of the survey online, mostly via FND patient groups, are a key limitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Butler
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Mathieu Seynaeve
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jianan Bao
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Susannah Pick
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Eveliina Ilola
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - James Rucker
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jon Stone
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Timothy Nicholson
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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A descriptive study of patients diagnosed with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures at a tertiary epilepsy center in the Czech Republic: One-year follow-up. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 118:107922. [PMID: 33752043 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To delineate sociodemographic data of a large sample of Czech Republic patients diagnosed with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) at the time of diagnosis and at a follow-up visit one year after discharge. This study collected reports of past stressors, quality of relationships in childhood, family background, traumatic events, and recent adversities in patients diagnosed with PNES. METHOD Patients (219w/79m, 37.56 (13.15) years, 12.13 (2.05) years of education) were assessed through a semi-structured interview on clinical and historical data while they were inpatients at the Epilepsy Center, Na Homolce Hospital, Prague. Subsequently, they were re-evaluated one year after discharge from the hospital with the same method. A comparison of this sample to normal controls was subsequently conducted. RESULTS We found a higher female (73.5%) predominance; mean duration of seizures was 69.14 months. The majority of patients were single (46.13%) or divorced (16.84%), and 48% received disability benefits. A diversity of developmental risk factors as well as immediate precursors of PNES onset were identified. One year after hospitalization, significant changes were found in all seizure and healthcare characteristics of our sample. When compared to healthy volunteers, the patients also presented with a higher prevalence of stressors and traumatic events in childhood. CONCLUSIONS Cross-cultural research contributes important information on the universal components of PNES as well as the unique features observed in distinct localities of differing cultures and ethnicities. This study allows for comparison of sociodemographic features in a Central European sample to the more frequently studied English-speaking samples.
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Lanzillotti AI, Sarudiansky M, Lombardi NR, Korman GP, D Alessio L. Updated Review on the Diagnosis and Primary Management of Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizure Disorders. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021; 17:1825-1838. [PMID: 34113112 PMCID: PMC8187153 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s286710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are paroxystic and episodic events associated with motor, sensory, mental or autonomic manifestations, which resemble epileptic seizures (ES), but are not caused by epileptogenic activity. PNES affect between 20% and 30% of patients attending at epilepsy centers and constitute a serious mental health problem. PNES are often underdiagnosed, undertreated and mistaken with epilepsy. PNES are diagnosed after medical causes (epilepsy, syncope, stroke, etc.) have been ruled out, and psychological mechanisms are involved in their genesis and perpetuation. For psychiatry, there is not a single definition for PNES; the DSM-IV and ICD-10/11 describe the conversion and dissociative disorders, and the DSM-5 describes the functional neurological disorders. However, patients with PNES also have a high frequency of other comorbidities like depression, particularly trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. It has been postulated that PNES are essentially dissociations that operate as a defensive psychological mechanism that use the mind as a defense to deal with traumas. With the advent of VEEG in the 90s, the recognition of PNES has significantly increased, and several psychological treatments have been developed. In this manuscript, we carried out a state-of-the-art review, with the aim to provide a critical approach to the extensive literature about PNES, focusing on diagnostic aspects, the primary management, and the available treatments that have been shown to be effective for the improvement of PNES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Inés Lanzillotti
- Buenos Aires University, Psychology School, Psychology School Research Institute National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Sarudiansky
- Buenos Aires University, Psychology School, Psychology School Research Institute National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Guido Pablo Korman
- Buenos Aires University, Psychology School, Psychology School Research Institute National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana D Alessio
- Buenos Aires University, Ramos Mejía Hospital, Epilepsy Center, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Buenos Aires University, Medicine School, Cell Biology and Neuroscience Institute (IBCN)- National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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MacDuffie KE, Grubbs L, Best T, LaRoche S, Mildon B, Myers L, Stafford E, Rommelfanger KS. Stigma and functional neurological disorder: a research agenda targeting the clinical encounter. CNS Spectr 2020; 26:1-6. [PMID: 33267932 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852920002084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Stigma against patients with functional neurological disorder (FND) presents obstacles to diagnosis, treatment, and research. The lack of biomarkers and the potential for symptoms to be misunderstood, invalidated, or dismissed can leave patients, families, and healthcare professionals at a loss. Stigma exacerbates suffering and unmet needs of patients and families, and can result in poor clinical management and prolonged, repetitive use of healthcare resources. Our current understanding of stigma in FND comes from surveys documenting frustration experienced by providers and distressing healthcare interactions experienced by patients. However, little is known about the origins of FND stigma, its prevalence across different healthcare contexts, its impact on patient health outcomes, and optimal methods for reduction. In this paper, we set forth a research agenda directed at better understanding the prevalence and context of stigma, clarifying its impact on patients and providers, and promoting best practices for stigma reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E MacDuffie
- Department of Speech & Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- The Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Lindsey Grubbs
- Berman Institute of Bioethics, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tammyjo Best
- Brain Health Center, Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Suzette LaRoche
- Department of Neurology, Emory University, Asheville, South Carolina, USA
- Epilepsy Center, The Mission Health, Asheville, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Lorna Myers
- Northwest Regional Epilepsy Group, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Karen S Rommelfanger
- Center of Ethics Neuroethics Program, Departments of Neurology, Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Sarudiansky M, Pablo Korman G, Lanzillotti AI, Areco Pico MM, Tenreyro C, Paolasini GV, Wolfzun C, Kochen S, D'Alessio L, Myers L. Report on a psychoeducational intervention for psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in Argentina. Seizure 2020; 80:270-277. [PMID: 32475751 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the effects of a three-session psychoeducational intervention on patients diagnosed with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in an Argentinian public hospital. It was hypothesized that patients would experience improvements in their understanding of PNES, illness perception and affective scores, but might not necessarily experience a significant change in post-traumatic and dissociative symptoms and in seizure frequency. METHODS This study included 12 patients (10 women, 2 men) who were invited to participate in a psychoeducational group after receiving a V-EEG confirmed diagnosis of PNES. The group consisted of 3 sessions lasting 2 h each. Pre and post measures included Psychoeducational Intervention Questionnaire, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Diagnostic Scale 5, Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES-M). RESULTS This psychoeducational intervention produced results that were similar to interventions reported in US and European studies with regard to changes on psychological measures. Moreover, many patients also reported (on the final day of the intervention) a decrease in seizure frequency. All patients reported that participating in the intervention was a positive experience. Also, all but one patient referred that the participation in the group would have a positive impact on their quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Psychoeducational interventions appear to have had positive results in Argentinian patients with PNES. This is initial step in the design of empirically based psychoeducational/supportive initiatives for patients in South America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Sarudiansky
- CAEA, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Guido Pablo Korman
- CAEA, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - María Marta Areco Pico
- CAEA, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Camila Wolfzun
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Depression, anxiety, and clinical history in Spanish-speaking American patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) compared with Spanish-speaking American patients with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 102:106694. [PMID: 31760198 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare Spanish-speaking American patients with epilepsy to Spanish-speaking American patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) on depression, anxiety, and other clinical variables. BACKGROUND Research on Spanish-speaking American patients with epilepsy or PNES is relatively infrequent, with only a few studies on psychopathology in these two patient groups. Studies of English-speaking patients indicate that those with PNES present with greater depression and anxiety and report poorer quality of life (QOL) when compared with persons with epilepsy (PWEs). Similarly, although psychological trauma is observed in both groups, those with PNES appear to have more traumatic exposure compared with PWEs. METHODS This is a retrospective study of 74 Spanish-speaking PWEs (49 women, 31 men) and 34 Spanish-speaking patients with PNES (28 women, 4 men) (2004 to 2017). The diagnosis of epilepsy or PNES was confirmed with video-EEG. Demographic and clinical (psychological trauma, history of psychological treatment, etc.) data were collected, and Spanish versions of the Beck Depression Inventory - second edition (BDI-II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were completed by the patients. RESULTS Patients with PWEs (M = 18.19, SD = 12.89) differed significantly from those with PNES on a measure of depression (BDI-II, (M = 24.12, SD = 11.20); t (92) = -2.22, p = 0.01). In addition, PWEs (M = 15.76, SD = 14.24) also differed significantly when compared with patients with PNES on a measure of anxiety (BAI, (M = 22.46, SD = 14.02); t (93) = -2.05, p = 0.02). Significant differences in clinical and demographic data were also noted. CONCLUSIONS Spanish-speaking American patients with PNES were significantly more depressed and anxious and reported greater exposure to sexual trauma as compared with PWEs. Furthermore, patients with PNES tended to report more prediagnosis utilization of mental health services than PWEs. After adjusting for potential linear effects of other predictors (e.g., gender, age, seizure frequency, and psychological trauma), only a reported history of psychological trauma had a linear relationship with a depression score while higher seizure frequency and history of mental health treatment had linear relationships with an anxiety score.
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