Making sense of non-epileptic seizures.
BACKGROUND
Non-epileptic seizures (NES) are a chronic condition that is frequently misdiagnosed. Limited awareness of the condition may contribute to mismanagement and poor outcome.


METHODS
Medline and PsycLit review of clinical and laboratory studies.


RESULTS
The concept of NES is clarified, common clinical presentations are reviewed and the differential diagnoses considered. A general overview of possible mechanisms and pathological findings is presented. Finally, epidemiological, prognostic, and treatment issues are described.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinicians increased awareness of NES, together with new diagnostic techniques will improve diagnosis and outcome of this condition. Further research is needed into the pathophysiology, etiology and maintenance mechanisms of non-epileptic seizures.
Gene-Cos
Nuri
N
St Bartholomew's and the Royal London School of Medicine, United Kingdom. Nuri.Genecos@slam.nhs.uk
Ring
Howard A
HA
D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004569:Electroencephalography; D006801:Humans; D011602:Psychophysiologic Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D012640:Seizures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy