engleski

PSYCHOGENIC NONEPILEPTIC SEIZURES IN CHILDREN – THE CASE STUDY

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are paroxysmal events characterized by changes in behavior or consciousness that resemble epileptic seizures but are not associated with abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. The prevalence rate of PNES among children in comparison to adults is not only lower, but it differs in clinical features, etiology, treatment and outcomes. In children, research have identified that the average age of onset of PNES is of between 10.5 and 14.9 years. Stressors (especially family and school stressors) have an important role in the etiology of children's PNES. In addition, depression, panic disorder, adjustment disorder, ADHD, and specific learning disorders are common comorbidities among children with PNES. Treating PNES in children is very complex and includes a psychosocial approach (working with both, a child and its family), psychotherapy as well as pharmacotherapy. The most common drugs being used for treating PNES are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as flouxetine, escitalopram, sertraline and fluvoxamine. This case study illustrates PNES in childhood (clinical picture, etiologic factors, diagnostics which includes psychodiagnostic assessment and therapeutic interventions).

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, childhood, clinical picture

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