Non-epileptic seizures (NES) are paroxysmal events that resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain.[1] They are not a single condition, but a descriptive category encompassing multiple disorders that can produce seizure-like episodes without the electrical activity that defines epilepsy. Some arise from functional disruptions in brain activity, as seen in psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) – a common subtype classified under functional neurological disorders. Others result from physiological causes, including fainting, sleep disorders, or movement disorders, which can mimic epileptic seizures despite distinct mechanisms.
Non-epileptic seizures do not respond to anti-seizure medications.[2] The gold standard for distinguishing them from epilepsy is video-electroencephalographic (video-EEG) monitoring. Management depends on the underlying cause: functional seizures are treated with psychological and rehabilitative therapies, while physiological mimics require targeted medical care.[3]
- ^ Xiang, Xiaohui; Fang, Jiajia; Guo, Yi (2019-10-21). "Differential diagnosis between epileptic seizures and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures based on semiology". Acta Epileptologica. 1 (1): 6. doi:10.1186/s42494-019-0008-4. ISSN 2524-4434.
- ^ Peköz, Mehmet Taylan; Aslan-Kara, Kezban; Demir, Turgay; Aktan, Gulfem; Balal, Mehmet; Cakmak, Soner; Bozdemir, Hacer (2022). "Frequency and economic burden of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in patients applying for disability benefits due to epilepsy". Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria. 80 (11): 1112–1118. doi:10.1055/s-0042-1759759. ISSN 0004-282X. PMC 9797265. PMID 36577410.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
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