Induction of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures without placebo

• DOI: 10.1212/wnl.55.12.1904
• Publication Date: 2012-05-14T20:42:51Z
• Authors: S. R. Benbadis; K. Johnson; K. Anthony, R.EEG.T; G. Caines, R.EEG.T; G. Hess, R.EEG.T; C. Jackson, R.EEG.T; F. L. Vale, MD; and W. O. Tatum I...
• Keywords: Psychogenic disease; Photic Stimulation

The diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) can only be made with EEG-video monitoring. authors describe a provocative technique without placebo. Patients clinical suspicion for PNES underwent an activation procedure using suggestion, hyperventilation, and photic stimulation. Of 19 inductions performed, 16 (84%) were successful in inducing the habitual episode. authors' had sensitivity comparable to those placebo (e.g., saline injection), but does not have disadvantages.