Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizure
Pronunciation: sy-koh-JEN-ik non-ep-ih-LEP-tik SEE-zhur
Also written as: PNES — Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizure
A paroxysmal event resembling an epileptic seizure that is caused by psychological rather than epileptiform neurological activity, frequently presenting in emergency departments and requiring careful diagnostic distinction.
Full Definition
Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) are episodes of involuntary movement, sensory disturbance, or altered awareness that clinically resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal neurological electrical activity. PNES are among the most common diagnoses referred from neurology to emergency psychiatry. Accurate identification is critical because inappropriate treatment with antiepileptic medication can be harmful. Editors should note that 'psychogenic non-epileptic seizure' is the currently preferred term; older terminology such as 'pseudoseizure' is considered pejorative and stigmatising and should not appear in contemporary clinical documentation without an editorial query. The abbreviation PNES is standard and should be expanded on first use.
Usage
Usage note: The term 'pseudoseizure' is outdated and stigmatising; always replace with 'psychogenic non-epileptic seizure' or 'PNES.' Expand on first use.
In Context
- "The neurology consult confirmed the diagnosis of psychogenic non-epileptic seizure (PNES) following a normal EEG, and the patient was referred to the psychiatric liaison service." — Emergency department consultation note
- "Editors should flag and query any use of 'pseudoseizure,' substituting the preferred term 'psychogenic non-epileptic seizure' or 'PNES' per current clinical style." — Editorial style guidance