A systematic review of suggestive seizure induction for the diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures

Abstract

Suggestive seizure induction is a widely used method for diagnosing psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES). Despite seven decades of multidisciplinary research, however, there is still no unified protocol, no definitive agreement on the ethical framework and no consensus on diagnostic utility. This systematic review surveys the evidence at hand and addresses clinically relevant aspects of suggestive seizure induction. In addition to its use for facilitating the diagnostic process, its mechanism of action and utility in elucidating the psychopathology of PNES will be discussed.

Keywords: Induction; PNES; Provocation; Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures; Suggestion; Suggestive seizure induction.