PNES
Pronunciation: P-N-E-S
Also written as: PNES — Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures - episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but lack epileptic brain activity.
Full Definition
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are paroxysmal events that clinically resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. Instead, they are typically related to psychological factors, trauma, or conversion disorders. PNES events are documented with normal EEG activity during the episode, distinguishing them from true epileptic seizures. Diagnosis requires video-EEG monitoring and careful clinical evaluation. These events represent a significant differential diagnosis challenge in epilepsy medicine and require specialized psychiatric or psychological intervention rather than antiseizure medications.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred term over outdated 'pseudoseizures' which implies deliberate deception.
In Context
- "Video-EEG monitoring confirmed the diagnosis of PNES rather than epilepsy." — Diagnostic report
- "The patient was referred to psychiatry for PNES management after epileptic seizures were ruled out." — Consultation note