What are the most common psychiatric diagnoses associated with nonepileptic seizures?
Nonepileptic seizures are classified as a conversion disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV). Conversion disorder is included in the broader category of somatoform disorders. Essentially, the patient presents with symptoms suggestive of a neurologic or other general medical condition, preceded by conflicts or other stressors. The symptom is not feigned, and appropriate investigations fail to reveal evidence of a causative organic condition. The symptoms cause significant distress and interfere with the patient’s general functioning. In some patients, NESs are part of a symptom complex subsumed under the rubric somatization disorder. In this condition, the patient has a pattern of recurring multiple and significant somatic complaints beginning under the age of 30 and extending for a prolonged period, sometimes many years. Patients with NESs also suffer from associated psychiatric disorders. More than one condition is often present.
