Case Report

A Case of Pseudoseizures

Authors: J D. Haines, MD

Abstract

Pseudoseizures, historically described as hysterical seizures, closely resemble epileptic attacks. However, they lack the abnormal paroxysmal electrical discharges from the brain seen in epilepsy. Pseudoseizures may represent a dissociative coping mechanism in which anxiety is reduced by the appearance of the pseudoseizure. Psychotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for pseudoseizures.


Key Points


* Pseudoseizures closely resemble epileptic attacks; however, they are a psychological illness, and lack the abnormal paroxysmal electrical discharges from the brain seen in epilepsy.


* Pseudoseizures occur twice as frequently in women.


* After anxiety is reduced by the appearance of the pseudoseizure, the patient becomes indifferent to symptoms.


* Psychotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for pseudoseizures.

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References

1. Gowers WR. Epilepsy and Other Chronic Diseases. New York, William Wood and Company, 1885, p 189.
 
2. Havens LL. Charcot and hysteria. J Nerv Ment Dis 1966;141:505–516.
 
3. Konikow NS. Hysterical seizures or pseudoseizures. J Neurosurg Nurs 1983;15:22–26.