Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures and psychogenic movement disorders: two sides of the same coin?

Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 2014 Oct;72(10):793-802. doi: 10.1590/0004-282x20140111.

Abstract

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) and psychogenic movement disorders (PMD) are commonly seen in Neurology practice and are categorized in the DSM-5 as functional neurological disorders/conversion disorders. This review encompasses historical and epidemiological data, clinical aspects, diagnostic criteria, treatment and prognosis of these rather challenging and often neglected patients. As a group they have puzzled generations of neurologists and psychiatrists and in some ways continue to do so, perhaps embodying and justifying the ultimate and necessary link between these specialties.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Conversion Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Conversion Disorder / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electroencephalography
  • Humans
  • Prognosis
  • Psychophysiologic Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Psychophysiologic Disorders / therapy