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Minimum requirements for the diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: A staged approach
Author(s) -
LaFrance W. Curt,
Baker Gus A.,
Duncan Rod,
Goldstein Laura H.,
Reuber Markus
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
epilepsia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.687
H-Index - 191
eISSN - 1528-1167
pISSN - 0013-9580
DOI - 10.1111/epi.12356
Subject(s) - psychogenic disease , electroencephalography , epilepsy , neurology , psychology , neuropsychiatry , neuropsychology , neuroimaging , psychiatry , medicine , cognition
Summary An international consensus group of clinician‐researchers in epilepsy, neurology, neuropsychology, and neuropsychiatry collaborated with the aim of developing clear guidance on standards for the diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures ( PNES ). Because the gold standard of video electroencephalography (v EEG ) is not available worldwide, or for every patient, the group delineated a staged approach to PNES diagnosis. Using a consensus review of the literature, this group evaluated key diagnostic approaches. These included: history, EEG , ambulatory EEG , v EEG /monitoring, neurophysiologic, neurohumoral, neuroimaging, neuropsychological testing, hypnosis, and conversation analysis. Levels of diagnostic certainty were developed including possible, probable, clinically established, and documented diagnosis, based on the availability of history, witnessed event, and investigations, including v EEG . The aim and hope of this report is to provide greater clarity about the process and certainty of the diagnosis of PNES , with the intent to improve the care for people with epilepsy and nonepileptic seizures.