Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures

Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures

Welcome to the Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures subsection of the Neurology for the MSRA course.

This section is designed to provide comprehensive and structured learning materials to help you understand and master the topic of Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures for the MSRA. It covers key aspects of this condition, based on UK NICE guidelines.


In this subsection, you will find the following resources to aid your revision:

  1. Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures Revision Notes for MSRA: Detailed and concise revision notes covering all essential aspects of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. These notes are structured using UK NICE guidelines and are presented in a format designed for quick recall.
  2. Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures Flashcards for MSRA: Interactive flashcards designed to help you memorise key facts and concepts about psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. These are ideal for quick reviews and reinforcing knowledge.
  3. Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures Accordion Q&A Notes for the MSRA: Test your understanding with question-and-answer-style accordion notes. This active learning format supports retention and allows you to focus on weaker areas.
  4. Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures Rapid Fire Quiz for MSRA: A short quiz to assess your knowledge of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, helping you identify areas that need further review. Additional questions are available in the question banks and mock exams on the website.

Key Points about Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures:

  1. Definition: Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. Instead, they are a manifestation of psychological distress.
  2. Causes: PNES is often associated with underlying psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or conversion disorder. Stressful life events and emotional conflicts are common triggers.
  3. Symptoms: Symptoms can include convulsions, shaking, and loss of consciousness, similar to epileptic seizures. However, certain features such as prolonged duration, lack of postictal confusion, and resistance to treatment can suggest PNES.
  4. Diagnosis: Diagnosis is made through video-electroencephalography (video-EEG), which differentiates PNES from epileptic seizures by showing a lack of abnormal electrical activity during events. A thorough clinical history and psychiatric assessment are also key.
  5. Management: Management focuses on psychological and psychiatric care, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and addressing any underlying mental health conditions. Antiepileptic drugs are not effective for PNES.
  6. Complications: Without proper treatment, PNES can lead to significant disability, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. It is important to address the condition early to improve outcomes.

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Free MSRA Podcast: Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures