EAN 2021 | Challenges in the diagnosis of PNES

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are episodes of paroxysmal impairment associated with a range of motor, sensory, and mental manifestations, which perfectly mimic epileptic seizures. Angelo Labate, MD, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy, discusses the difficulties of diagnosing psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). Video electroencephalograph (EEG) is the most effective tool for diagnosing PNES when used during an ictal event. Traditional neuroimaging is not helpful for diagnosis because, during an ictal event, an MRI scan is normal. Prof. Labate shares two different clinical cases to illustrate the challenges of diagnosing PNES. This interview took place at the European Academy of Neurology 2021 congress.