Functional seizures: management
Evidence-based neurology checklist on functional seizures: management: Communicate the diagnosis effectively Tactful communication of diagnosis Explain what non-epileptic seizures are Explain that they are real attacks Give a name for the condition Give alternative names Reassure it is common and…
Communicate the diagnosis effectively
- Tactful communication of diagnosis
- Explain what non-epileptic seizures are
- Explain that they are real attacks
- Give a name for the condition
- Give alternative names
- Reassure it is common and recognisable
- Give written material as part of the communication strategy
- Explain that it is difficult to find the cause
- Explain that it can be related to stress and it is worsened by the worry-stress-worry cycle
Provide a model
Explain why it is not epilepsy
Explore and address underlying risk factors
Discuss ineffectiveness of anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) and withdraw
Discuss management
Management approach
Synonyms
References
- Hall-Patch L, Brown R, House A, et al. Acceptability and effectiveness of a strategy for the communication of the diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsia 2010; 51:70-78.
- Karterud HN, Knizek BL, Nakken KO. Changing the diagnosis from epilepsy to PNES: patients' experiences and understanding of their new diagnosis. Seizure 2010; 19:40-46.
- Mellers JDC. The approach to patients with "non-epileptic seizures". Postgrad Med J 2005; 81:498-504.
- Lesser RP. Treatment and outcome of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. Epilepsy Curr 2003; 3:198-200.
- Oto M, Espie C, Pelosi A, Selkirk M, Duncan R. The safety of antiepileptic drug withdrawal in patients with non-epileptic seizures. JNNP 2005; 76:1682-1685.
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