Pseudoneurologic syndromes: recognition and diagnosis

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Physicians may encounter patients with a collection of psychologic disorders that present with neurologic symptoms or signs, yet have no identifiable structural or functional etiology within the nervous system. These disorders comprise the so-called pseudoneurologic syndromes, which can mimic almost any organic disease. A careful history and physical examination often can identify the psychologic origin of the symptoms. Presenting syndromes can include pseudoparalysis, pseudosensory syndromes, pseudoseizures, pseudocoma, psychogenic movement disorders and pseudoneuro-ophthalmologic syndromes. These presentations may be distinguished from organic disease by observing signs and symptoms or eliciting test responses that are nonphysiologic and incompatible with organic disease. Once a pseudoneurologic syndrome is identified, patients require compassionate and understanding care to resolve underlying emotional problems.

Medical Subject Headings

Diagnosis, Differential; Humans; Nervous System Diseases (diagnosis, psychology); Syndrome

Publication Date

5-15-1998

Publication Title

American family physician

ISSN

0002-838X

Volume

57

Issue

10

First Page

2485

Last Page

94

PubMed ID

9614416

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